Docomo Press Conference New models and services unveiled under the theme "Realize"

NTT DOCOMO held its 2017-18 Winter/Spring New Service and Product Launch Event at Bellesalle Shiodome in Chuo Ward, Tokyo, on October 18.

President Kazuhiro Yoshizawa took the stage at the outset to deliver a presentation. President Yoshizawa stated that the theme for this event was "Realize" – putting into action the mid-term strategy 2020 "beyond declaration" formulated in fiscal 2017. He introduced the three pillars: "Realize for 'You'", "Realize for 'Society'", and "Realize for 'Future'", explaining the new products and services under each.

Under "Realize for You," 13 new models will be released sequentially starting October 26th. These include the new "Xperia XZ1 series" enabling 3D shooting, the dual-screen smartphone "M," and a total of 11 diverse smartphone models and 2 tablet models.

The "M" offers flexible use whether held wide or upright. It allows users to search the web while composing emails or display maps on a large screen combining both displays, enabling usage tailored to the situation. As a global model originating from Docomo, it is scheduled for sale through carriers worldwide, including Vodafone and AT&T.

Other models include the collaboration model "JOJO L-02K" commemorating the 30th anniversary of the popular comic "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure," and the special model "DM-01K" celebrating Mickey Mouse's 90th screen debut anniversary, offering a rich variety of choices.

Under "Realize for Society," the launch of the "d Car Share" service was introduced. Users can choose and use their preferred vehicle from a pool of cars owned by car-sharing operators, rental companies, or individuals, based on purpose, location, and timing. This groundbreaking initiative integrates "Car Share," "My Car Share," and "Rental Car" services onto a single platform. There are no monthly fees beyond the actual vehicle usage cost, and the service will be available starting November 8.

The first new service introduced under the third pillar, "Realize for Future," is "Talk Memo," which automatically takes notes of what you say. It transcribes your spoken words during calls into text, allowing you to save it to your smartphone or share it by linking with apps like email or calendars. This enables you to leave text records even when your hands are full while out and about. It will be offered as a trial starting October 18.

Furthermore, the "AI Agent Service," set to launch in spring 2018, drew gasps from the audience. A video showcased the service through smooth conversations between users and artificial intelligence (AI). President Yoshizawa outlined efforts to realize a service that makes appropriate suggestions at the right time for each individual, such as "proactive" alarm notifications for weather or transportation status, and purchasing代行 (purchasing on behalf) for online shopping.

Four celebrities who appear in the company's commercials rushed to the venue: actors Shinichi Tsutsumi, Go Ayano, and Mitsuki Takahata, along with comedian Buruzon Chiemi.

Tsutsumi, who said he frequently uses rental cars, expressed interest, stating, "I definitely want to try d Car Share." When Takahata remarked, "Living alone makes you want to talk to someone, so I'm curious about the AI agent," Tsutsumi responded, "Then call me!" Only to be retorted, "I'd rather talk to the AI than call you."

Ayano expressed excitement about the Xperia's 3D capture feature, saying, "I can't wait to use it! I'm bursting with anticipation!" Then, a 3D avatar figure of Buruzon-san, created after she tried it beforehand, appeared at the venue. Laughing, the three remarked, "It really looks just like her face!" Buruzon-san murmured, "This would be great to send to my parents who live far away."

Takahata reacted to the dual-screen "M" smartphone. "It's so cool. I'm thrilled you can read it like a book, spread open," she said, her voice full of excitement. When asked, "What would you want two of?" in reference to the dual-screen feature, Ayano answered "myself," explaining that having two of him would let him tackle twice as many things simultaneously. Takahata cited "my stomach," making the audience laugh as she explained, "I hate it when there's so much delicious food but I'm too full to eat it."

President Yoshizawa stated, "We will continue to provide surprises and excitement that exceed our customers' expectations and imagination." Mr. Tsutsumi concluded, "New, diverse functions useful in various situations have been born. Mobile phones feel like increasingly indispensable partners. We hope you will continue to choose Docomo."

An adjacent venue featured a touch-and-try corner for new products and services, bustling with many reporters.

Official website:
https://www.nttdocomo.co.jp/