Napster Mobile a la iMode

Three months after rolling out its first network launch via U.S. carrier SunCom Wireless, Napster Mobile--a full-track, over-the-air music download service--debuted today on Japanese operator NTT DoCoMo's iMode platform. For a fee of about $3 per month, iMode subscribers can access Napster Mobile's library of full-length songs and ringtones, as well as personalized recommendations, exclusive tracks and chart information. The deal is a significant coup for Napster, the Rasputin of music download services--despite considerable speculation the company is primping itself for acquisition, CEO Chris Gorog has maintained its goal is to continue operating as an independent entity. Teaming with NTT DoCoMo--Japan's largest mobile operator with 52 million subscribers, 40 million of them on the iMode platform--could prove the shot in the arm the company desperately needs.

For more on the Napster/DoCoMo deal:
-  check out this article from IT News