NTT Communications (NTT)
has unveiled plans to produce phones that can deliver smells via its new Mobile
Fragrance Communication (MFC) service.
The system is a mobile version of an existing service that combines
downloaded audio-visual content together with specific fragrances that are
emitted by a dedicated device. The pilot test will run from 10 to 20 April.
The new mobile version offers the convenience of using mobile communication
to download 'fragrance playlists', or files of recipes for specific fragrances
together with visual and audio content.
Fragrance data is transferred via the infrared port to a device that has been
loaded with a cartridge of base fragrances. The device then mixes the specific
fragrances and emits them while the audio visual content is played back on the
phone.
The fragrance playlists will be available for download from the mobile
website of NTT's sister company
NTT DoCoMo and can also
can be edited as well as shared with others who subscribe to the service.
During the pilot, NTT will also test a device controller, called the Service
Gateway, which controls the operation of devices in the MFC system.
The gateway connects with the internet, allowing instructions to be sent
remotely from a mobile phone. This could, for instance, allow commands to be
sent to the gateway to instruct the fragrance device to begin operating just
before the user arrives home.
In the pilot test, a total of 20 participants will each receive an MFC kit
containing a mobile phone and fragrance device. Five of the users will also be
given Service Gateway modules.
NTT aims to use the information it gathers to learn about the preferences for
when, where and how to best make use of the service, as well as opinions of the
fragrance device's design and usability.
The company is also accepting applications from companies in Japan that wish
to develop content and applications for the forthcoming commercial version of
the service, including ringtones, music and horoscopes.
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