NTT DOCOMO launches Asia IoT Program

NTT DOCOMO has launched the DOCOMO Asia IoT Program (AIP), which aims to foster collaboration among Internet of Things (IoT) providers and expand the IoT market across the Asia region. Mobile operators from 15 countries in the region have expressed their intention to participate in the programme.

Forming part of DOCOMO's global IoT solution Globiot, the programme aims to strengthen the company's IoT offering in Asia. It will enhance connectivity, operational support and consultation on certification and regulation, all of which rely on close collaboration with local mobile operators in the region.

Participating mobile operators will be able to acquire timely information on the Japanese and Asian markets and work closely with DOCOMO to further meet the needs of corporate customers. These customers will be able to acquire local information and mobile connectivity relatively quickly, and compare the offerings of multiple mobile operators as well.

The first meeting for members of the programme was held on October 25 in Tokyo, Japan, with members from Australia, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, South Korea, Malaysia, Nepal, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.

As part of the programme:

- Biannual regular meetings to discuss potential and common challenges of the IoT market in the Asia region will be held

- Regional market trends and local IoT-related information (e.g. regulations, certification processes) will be shared to foster global expansion and explore potential business opportunities

- The latest technology trends will also be shared (e.g. IoT, 5G)

- Joint sessions are to be held with corporate customers

In January this year, DOCOMO launched its 5G Open Partner Program to promote collaboration in 5G. The global IoT market continues to expand, and this expansion is likely to accelerate in the coming 5G era. Going forward, DOCOMO is dedicated to broadening its partnerships across the Asia region in order to support its corporate customers' own IoT business expansion.