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NTT DoCoMo, Inc. and its eight regional subsidiaries have announced that they will begin marketing the new 3G FOMA "Raku Raku Phone" handset, which is the first model in the easy-to-use Raku Raku phone series to be compatible with the 3G network. The handset is scheduled to be released on September 4, 2004.

Unlike other phones in the series, this model has a camera for videophone calls and sending/receiving video clips via DoCoMo's i-motion mail service. It also enables users to record voice messages and send them as e-mail attachments.

As with other Raku Raku phones, the new model uses both blinking keys and screen instructions to guide users toward the proper buttons for picking up voice and video phone calls.

The phone features a large 2.4-inch QVGA screen, and text font may be enlarged up to 30 dots for ease of reading. Onscreen instructions are also available for creating and sending e-mail.

In addition, the phone is equipped with the "Read Aloud" feature that provides audio readouts of i-mode site pages, message logs, operating menus, calculator input/output, e-mail transmission confirmations, low-battery warnings and more.

The new handset will go on sale at all DoCoMo sales channels. The price will be open (unfixed). The handset will come with the standard kit that includes a battery pack, desktop holder and optional AC adapter. Additional individual equipment from the standard kit will cost as follows: 2,100 yen for a battery pack, 945 yen for an AC adapter, and 630 yen for a desktop holder. The prices (all of which include tax) are for the Kanto-Koshinetsu area, and may be changed in other locations by DoCoMo's eight regional subsidiaries.