NTT Docomo & Napster...Softbank & iTunes?

[kashimo]

Wirelessweek reports that NTT DoCoMO and Napster will provide over-the-air music download service:

Napster's full-track, over-the-air (OTA) music download service has arrived on iMode. The launch builds on an existing relationship Napster has with iMode creator NTT DoCoMo.

For a $3 per month fee, Napster Mobile on iMode will enable DoCoMo's iMode subscribers to access full-length songs and ringtones that can be delivered over the air to their handsets. Napster Mobile is designed to deliver personalized recommendations, featured artists and new releases, exclusive music and chart information. DoCoMo calculates that roughly 40 million of its 52 million customers currently subscribe to iMode.

This service is to go head to head with AU/KDDI's LISTIMO download service.

AU's service is an internal service and allows users to download music to their cellphones with the charge going to their monthly bill.

It has been rumored for over a year that Softbank (Formerly Vodafone Japan) was working with Apple to launch a download service based on iTunes and the long rumored iPhone.

There were rumors here that the iPhone might be released in Japan before being released in the US.

iPod & iTunes sales have been lagging in Japan due to a fear by many Japanese for using their Credit Cards online. (There have been many cases of online fraud have scared Japanese from online shopping without alternate payment options). Apple launched iTunes cards for sale at convenience stores accross the nation yet it has not caught on as well as Apple would have liked.