NTT Communications trials mobile fragrance service

Japanese operator NTT Communications announced today that it will launch a pilot test of its Mobile Fragrance Communication service, tying together mobile multimedia content with specific fragrances emitted via dedicated device. First launched for home use in 2005, Fragrance Playlists are now available on DoCoMo's i-mode mobile website--fragrance data is transferred via the handset's infrared port to a device loaded with a cartridge of essences or base fragrances, mixing scents for emission in conjunction with audiovisual content playback. NTT adds that Fragrance Playlists also may be edited and shared with other subscribers.

NTT also announced it will begin accepting applications from Japanese firms wishing to develop content and applications for the forthcoming commercial version of the Mobile Fragrance Communication service, which will include ringtones, music and horoscopes combined with fragrances as well as applications for the housing, automotive, consumer electronics and videogame verticals. (If I'm a DoCoMo exec, any pitch that doesn't include the word "bacon" gets rejected on principle.)

For more on the mobile fragrance trial:
- read this release

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