NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced that it will procure an Android smartphone from Sharp Corporation together with Orange, one of the world’s leading telecommunications operators, marking the first time for an overseas operator to deploy a DOCOMO smartphone.
The smartphone model, a 3D-capable handset initially developed for DOCOMO and sold as the AQUOS PHONE SH-12C in Japan, was redesigned for the European market and named the “AQUOS PHONE SH80F.” Orange will introduce the model in France from October as its first mobile device capable of converting images and videos from 2D to 3D in real time.
Kiyohito Nagata, Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Strategic Marketing for NTT DOCOMO, INC., said, “We’re very proud of our relationship with Orange, which has made it possible to introduce this innovative 3D smartphone made by Sharp Corporation to the international market. DOCOMO will continue to work closely with Orange as part of a strategy to lead the global market with new and innovative products.”
“We are excited to be launching the AQUOS PHONE SH80F, thanks to our collaboration with DOCOMO and Sharp,” said Yves Maitre, Senior Vice President, Mobile Multimedia and Devices, Orange. “Orange is committed to bringing compelling innovations to our customers. Together, we share this ambition, launching this product in both Asia and Europe. We look forward to developing similar opportunities for our customers in the future.”
Masami Ohbatake, Group General Manager, Communication Systems Group, Sharp Corporation, said, “Sharp is honored to commercialize our new 3D smartphone (AQUOS PHONE SH80F) with Orange, thanks to their new collaborative relationship with DOCOMO. The introduction of this product in Europe will offer new added value experiences for users through our one-of-a-kind technologies; such as our 3D display and 3D camera.”
DOCOMO and Orange have a successful and long-standing relationship built on a common vision to enhance mobile experiences through innovative products and services. The two companies will continue to explore opportunities to harness new innovations for their markets that will further enhance customer satisfaction.
About NTT DOCOMO
NTT DOCOMO is a world-leading mobile operator and growing provider of comprehensive services centered on mobility. The company serves over 58 million customers in Japan via advanced wireless networks, including a nationwide 3G network and one of the world’s first commercial LTE networks. Leveraging its unique capabilities as a mobile operator, DOCOMO is a leading developer of cutting-edge technologies for NFC mobile payments, mobile GPS, mobile TV, intuitive mobile assistance, environmental monitoring, smart grids and much more. Overseas, the company provides technical and operational expertise to eight mobile operators and other partner companies. NTT DOCOMO is listed on the Tokyo (9437), London (NDCM) and New York (DCM) stock exchanges. Please visit www.nttdocomo.com for more information.
