NTT Com to offer fragrances via Net

NTT Communications Corp. said Monday it has developed a way to offer fragrances via the Internet.

News photo
A woman demonstrates a "scent-generator" developed by NTT Communications Corp. that enables users to smell fragrances sent over the Internet.

The technology uses a "scent-generation" device that is hooked up to a personal computer.

When a scent is converted into data, the information is sent to the device via the Internet, according to NTT Communications.

The device then blends fragrant materials stored within and creates the scent.

It can produce almost any fragrance, an NTT Communications official said.

The company will initially offer a fragrance delivery service for people taking classes conducted by the Japan Aromacoordinator Association to train aromatherapists.

NTT Communications plans to begin a commercial service for the general public by the end of March.

KDDI's 3G handsets
KDDI Corp. said Monday it will release five new handsets for third-generation mobile phone services, including video cell phones, starting in mid-June, adding fuel to the competition with NTT DoCoMo Inc.

The five handsets for KDDI's au service include the W32SA and the A5511T that can be used to watch TV programs.

Produced by Sanyo Electric Co. and Toshiba Corp., the W32SA and the A5511T are expected to carry price tags ranging from 10,000 yen to 25,000 yen.

Another handset will feature an advanced global positioning system that pinpoints the user's location.

KDDI is emphasizing the advanced audiovisual functions of its 3G handsets ahead of the summer shopping season.