Nissan and NTT DoCoMo today announced that they would offer a new service that enables drivers to receive i-mode content on their mobile phones by using their Nissan's CARWINGS navigation system. This is the first time for an automaker to connect its telematics services to DoCoMo's i-mode content and cellular phones.

The new service, called Okutto-Keitai, allows drivers to receive i-mode digital maps and restaurant information corresponding to the area in which their car is located or destined. The driver can request the information from CARWINGS's live operator or by selecting the desired information manually on the navigation system.

Within a few minutes, the CARWINGS data center will send an e-mail to the driver's i-mode compatible mobile phone with a URL link to the information he or she requested. By clicking on the URL, the driver will be able to view the i-mode site containing the information. The digital maps are provided by ZENRIN Co., Ltd., while the restaurant information is provided by Gourmet Navigator, Inc. In the future, Nissan and DoCoMo plan to expand the number of content providers to enrich the service.

Although CARWINGS allows drivers to download similar information on their navigation system, including real-time traffic, the service is limited. By using Okutto-Keitai, drivers have access to i-mode's rich content and can now take the information with them when they leave their car.