Thoughts regarding I-Mode -
Good resource from Postyle on RB - The unofficial independent imode-FAQ
eurotechnology.com
Contrary to perceptions, there is very little proprietary regarding I-Mode's technology. I-Mode is not a specific technology. I-Mode a branded service.
I-Mode's main distinction is that the service is written in C(compact)HTML - an open standard - to which it's added special I-Mode only tags that are not part of the standard (ie: for dialing a phone #) and a large # of special characters (ie: kisses, love, joy, sadness, etc.) All of these special tags and symbols could be easily replicated by a competitor by using its own custom tags and symbols. CHTML is much easier for developers to use than WAP - and is leading to scores of "unofficial" I-Mode sites being developed by small businesses and ordinary users in Japan.
I-Mode is a brand and service mark owned by DoCoMo - and these branded services could employ protocols or languages different than CHTML in the future - even WAP if it preferred.
I-Mode has had the advantage of running on NTT's packet switched, always "on" network, versus competitor's circuit switched networks. This advantage will shortly fade. With packet switched networks, operating perceptions between WAP and I-Mode should wane. Also, regarding WAP standards, I've read that the 2 will be converged, if not harmonized.
What "T" buys in to when they team with NTT is assistance in developing, packaging and delivering information services to its client base.
So - there is really nothing proprietary regarding the technology at all. But if NTT can sell its franchise, it could develop a similar first-mover advantage as did AOL - who provided a dumbed-down, easily navigated proprietary interface atop the Internet.
Aside from the fact that it is easier to program in, CHTML in itself is probably not an easier tool for solving the problems inherent in entering information into a key pad. But I-Mode has added custom shortcuts to make navigation through its services easier. Again, similarities to AOL.
So, the questions remain:
* Will NTT's methods for developing, packaging and delivering information services in Japan translate to other regions and cultures?
* How will competing Global Operators ( DT, Vodafone, BT, etc.) cognizant of the AOL model, respond to the potential threat/opportunity?
* The part of NTT's application of the underlying technology that is unique and potentially proprietary to I-Mode are their interface, custom tags and symbols. If I-Mode does spread, does this provide NTT with proprietary control over the service - if its interface, tags and symbols become universally used? In light of the fact that even I could create comparable interface, tags and symbols (with slightly more than pedestrian experience with HTML) would competing Operators allow this to happen?
* There has been at least one news article concerning NTT giving up control over its official content - and allowing other content providers to host "official" I-Mode sites. Is this simply an acknowledgement of what is happening without their permission - as illustrated by the profuse growth of unofficial "katte" sites? However, NTT will still control its screen menu. But will competing Operators want NTT to control their screen menus as well?
How does NTT perceive I-Mode's future? Do they plan to try and main proprietary control over screen menus - if not content? If so, are they content with head-to-head competition with Operators that have not received cash investments for partnerships with NTT? Or will NTT use I-Mode as a marketing tool to sell its presumed expertise in developing, packaging and delivering (non-proprietary) information services to competing Operators?
NTT is a brand - like AOL or NIKE or McDonalds. Will competing Operators allow the brand to dominate the services they provide their customers? Can NTT permeate disparate global cultures and consumers with its brand? |
