DoCoMo to Start Selling GPS Handset

NTT DoCoMo says that it will begin marketing its first Global Positioning System (GPS) compatible handset, dubbed F661i, on April 22, 2003. The new, easy-to-operate mobile phone features a one-touch GPS button that lets users quickly pinpoint their location, within a radius of 50 meters, and download area maps and information.

Eight different types of GPS content available from eight information providers include public transportation and restaurant data, as well as routing to help navigate to specific locations.

Users can also let others know their location by inputting the URL of their position into an e-mail, which can be sent to any i-mode compatible handset. In addition, a memo function allows users to store location information, including maps, telephone numbers and addresses, for easy access at a later date.

The F661i also boasts highly advanced tracking functions that can be used in conjunction with the company's DLP (DoCoMo Location Platform) to provide fast and accurate positioning information. A separate contract with an application service provider (ASP) is required to use the service. Currently, 11 ASPs are offering 13 applications."

Posted to the site on 17th April 2003