ASIA
: KDDI and Okinawa Cellular will release the "Friendly Design"
A1403 mobile handset (from Kyocera Corp.) as part of their third-generation
(CDMA1X) mobile phone lineup at the end of October, 2004.
The A1403K
adopts a futuristic and graceful oval design which is easy to hold
and comfortable in the hand. It also employs a "Graphic Window"
sub-display which displays information with fun and easy-to-understand
animations.
A simple
and easy to understand "Smart Mode" provides access to phone,
mail and camera functions for those not familiar with the regular,
more-complicated interface. Finally, a "Voice Support" function
provides audio guidance for using the handset, and a "Pair Function"
allows simple phone and email connection to a pre-configured other
person, both included as user-friendly features.
The handsets
employ the ideas of "Universal Design" to be more human-friendly.
They are usable by anyone and build-in a variety of features for design
and enjoy-ability. A series of further "Friendly Design"
handsets are planned for release in the future.