TOKYO, JAPAN, January 7, 2000--NTT Mobile Communications Network, Inc. (NTT DoCoMo) applied to Japan's Minister of Post and Telecommunications today for permission to launch the world's first pedestrian navigation service based on the enhanced global positioning system (GPS) technology of Snap Track, Inc., a U.S. high tech firm. The service, dubbed "Doco-Navi," will be launched nationwide on January 14 pending ministry approval. A service-compatible terminal, dubbed "Naviewn," will go on sale from the same date in the Kanto-koshinetsu region, with sales in other regions to follow. Snap Track's enhanced GPS technology will allow DoCoMo handset users to receive precise location information even in crowded downtown areas. Such a feat is difficult with conventional GPS.

Doco-Navi provides real-time route guidance to users. It also features concierge-like services that guide the user to points of interest and conveniences, such as restaurants, banks, stores, hospitals etc. More than 210,000 useful sites are available to users who access a location information service center via the terminal.

The monthly subscription fee for the service will be 400 yen (not including cost of call to information service center). However, the fee will be waived from January 14, 2000 to March 31, 2000 in order to attract users to the new service.

Attachment

Description of Naviewn terminal

1. Specifications:

Price
68,300 yen (including terminal and accessories)
Accessories include PC link cable, connecting cable for cellular phone, and soft case.

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