TOKYO, JAPAN, November 15, 2001 --- NTT DoCoMo, Inc. and IBM Lotus Software, a leading U.S. software maker, will study the feasibility of jointly developing and globally marketing mobile multimedia business solutions, the two firms announced today. A memorandum of understanding regarding these matters was signed by the companies yesterday.
Specifically, NTT DoCoMo and IBM Lotus Software will explore the feasibility of developing solutions to run business applications on NTT DoCoMo's mobile networks, including the FOMA* third-generation (3G) mobile network. They will also explore possibilities for incorporating mobile technology in various business applications.
Through this arrangement, NTT DoCoMo expects to accelerate the development of a corporate market FOMA, which is the world's first W-CDMA based fully commercialized 3G service.
Products, services and technology jointly developed under this arrangement will be marketed by the two firms to their respective customers worldwide. Both companies expect to fully exploit the results of their joint efforts to strengthen their competitive positions in the global marketplace.
*FOMA (Freedom Of Mobile multimedia Access) is the brand name used in Japan for NTT DoCoMo's 3G service.
About NTT DoCoMo, Inc.
NTT DoCoMo is Japan's largest mobile communications company. In August 2001, the number of PDC cellular phones subscriber exceeded 38 million. It had consolidated sales of 4.6 trillion yen in fiscal 2000 (ended March 31, 2001). NTT DoCoMo was formed in July 1992 to take over the mobile communications operations and sales of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone (NTT). NTT DoCoMo provides nationwide services, including cellular and PHS phone, paging, satellite mobile communications, and maritime and in-flight telephone service. The company also has subsidiaries in the United States, Europe, and Brazil. In February 1999, NTT DoCoMo launched its "i-mode" service, which provides continuous connection with the Internet via mobile phones. As of October 2001, the number of i-mode subscribers exceeded 28 million. On May 30, 2001, NTT DoCoMo launched its W-CDMA based third-generation wireless service, "FOMA" on an introductory basis. Following the termination of the introductory phase, NTT DoCoMo launched its fully commercialized FOMA service on October 1, 2001. NTT DoCoMo is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.
About Lotus Software from IBM
Lotus Software from IBM sets the standard for truly innovative software and services that reflect the brand's unique representation of the new ways individuals and businesses work together to achieve success. Lotus software is further redefining the concept of conducting business through practical knowledge management, e-business and other ground-breaking ways of connecting ideas, thinkers, buyers, sellers and communities around the world via the Internet. Lotus software is marketed in more than 80 countries worldwide through direct sales and extensive Business Partner channels. Consulting, support and education services are provided by the Lotus Professional Services organization.
