News
Issue #2001 - 26 (June 2001)
(Updated June 27,  2001)

TECHNOLOGY

Ericsson's BLIP Tech Goes for a Test Run in Japan

Nippon Ericsson K.K., the company's Japanese unit, along with its partners, trading house Marubeni Corporation and device manufacturer Handspring K.K., are taking Ericsson's BLIP (Bluetooth Local Infotainment Point) technology for a test run at key locations in Japan, from July through to the end-of the year.

This pilot project dubbed the 'Hot Spot Service Trial' involves 100 users, who have been selected online, and provided with Bluetooth-enabled handheld computers to access streaming video and the Internet. Test sites include the following:

• West Japan Railway will offer location-based services at one of its stations and on one of its bullet trains 
• Sofmap, a computer-retail shop, will provide product and store information 
• Marunouchi Café and So-net Cafés will offer rental of Bluetooth compatible computers to access So-net, an Internet service run by a unit of Sony

"As an increasing number of handhelds devices are equipped with Bluetooth as a standard feature, Ericsson believes the public trials will be a catalyst in attracting potential partners," said Morgan Bengtsson, president of the Nippon Ericsson K.K. 

Sadashi Iida, director and C00 of Marubeni's IT business division, said, "We see the vast implications for the hot spot service and believe that it represents one of the most potential solutions for service providers and location partners wishing to communicate with end-users more cost effectively and attractively."

Based on trial results, the three companies plan to commercialize the service in April of next year; meanwhile, they are seeking other partners. 

For more information: http://www.ericsson.com/infocenter/news/JapanBLIP.html

Mobileinfo Comments and Advisory: BLIP is an interesting technology to watch.

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