Japan Communications launches MVNO service on DoCoMo’s network

Japan Communications has recently announced that it has reached an interconnection agreement with DoCoMo to offer MVNO services on the network operator’s 3G FOMA network. What’s interesting about the new virtual operator is that this is the “world’s first interconnected MVNO service,” according to Japan Communications’ President Seiji Sanda. Until now, MVNOs have been limited to lease all aspects of the lines used, including backend lines, from the operator offering the piggyback service. However, Sanda says this method has traditionally constrained MVNOs to “introduce their proprietary terminals without the permission of MVOs.”

Apparently, the change in legislation is one of the key factors MVNOs should thank for “making possible to realise [an interconnect] business model…”

Japan Communications’ interconnected MVNO service will allow overseas manufacturers to freely participate in its development. Initially, the MVNO will offer a data communication-only service with USB modem made by China’s ZTE. Later in the year, the company intends to expand its portfolio to include smartphones, PCs with built-in communication modules, and mobile internet devices.

[Via: Telegeography.com]