PCIA GlobalXChange: Instant messages come to life on Japanese cell phones

Taking the instant messaging (IM) craze a little further, Pleasanton, CA-based FunMail Inc. has completed tests of a new wireless animated instant message product on the NTT DoCoMo i-mode system in Tokyo, Japan. When deployed, the product will allow subscribers, including i-mode, J-phone, and KDDI subscribers, to send animated instant messages from one wireless phone to another, as well as to other wireless and desktop devices.

"The small form factor, brilliant color screen, and large user base make Japan the ideal environment for the launch of FunMail wireless animated messages," said FunMail CEO, Adam Lavine.

The NTT DoCoMo i-mode phone in the trial communicated with a FunMail Web server in the United States. Using its patent-pending text-to-animation technology, the short text message from the i-mode device was analyzed and converted into a relevant animation that was sent back and displayed on the phone. Under normal traffic conditions, the process required only a few seconds.

"It's a great experience," said Lavine, who sent the first animated Instant Message on the i-mode system. "You input a short text message, then see that message spring to life on this wonderful color phone."

Worldwide cellular and PCS operators with multi-billion dollar investments in 2G digital systems are potential customers for the wireless animated IM product. Although the first successful testing is on the NTT DoCoMo i-mode system, the product is protocol-independent and can also work with SMS or WAP systems. The service is engineered to work in multiple languages.

Edited by Ellen Jensen
Managing Editor, Wireless Networks Online