'Smelly phone' making waves in Japan
Published: 18 Jan 2007 10:20 GMT
Apple is not the only kit maker causing waves with its latest
device. Japanese mobile giant NTT DoCoMo has launched handsets
promising scents and a double screen.
The DoCoMo mobile "smelly phone" is the SO703i from Sony Ericsson,
which uses scented sheets that produce an aroma when the device is
opened.
The operator said the scent sheets are designed to relax users
during a phone call, according to Reuters. The clamshell will be
available from next month.
NTT, parent of DoCoMo, has already experimented with linking
technology and fragrance. In 2005 the company trialled a system
that would fill a cinema with an odour at an appropriate point in
the film.
DoCoMo has cheekily named its double-screen handset the D8000iDS
no doubt highlighting its resemblance to the Nintendo DS gaming
device. The DoCoMo device opens like a book with a normal screen on
one half and a touchscreen on the other, allowing users to input
data using their fingers or a stylus.
D8000iDS owners will also be able to use the touchscreen to send
doodles to friends. The 3G phone, which uses the FoMA
third-generation variant found in Japan, will be available from
February.
