Japan is known for its complex cell phones and ridiculously advanced carrier networks, and the iPhone is now set to be released in Japan through Softbank. Will the iPhone’s simple, underutilized power and intense style win the Japanese over, or will they laugh at Apple for FexEx-ing them tech they’ve been using since ‘86.

OK, 1986 is a bit harsh, we’re not that behind. Still, their phone’s are so advanced they’re practically useless outside Japan since they require Japan’s "futuristic" cell networks, speculates Wired, so the iPhone may not sell well in the Tomorrowland — no, we’re not referring to Disneyland.

But according to Wired interviewee, Jobs’ secret admirer, author, and journalist Nobi Hayashi, the mind behind Steve Jobs: The Greatest Creative Director, most of the Japanese uses perhaps 5 to 10 percent of the functions available on their handsets.

As a result, the iPhone may sell well amongst those tired of the too-complicated menus and features found on today’s Japanese handsets, or maybe the huge demand for the latest and greatest (two titles the iPhone can’t claim in the Land of the Rising Sun) will make sure the iPhone doesn’t see the light of Tokyo streets.

News2u Corporation boss, Daiji Hirata, however, guesses the iPhone may sell modestly, though, it is hardly a competitor in their "mobile-based culture."

Related:

Entry was posted on Saturday, June 7th, 2008 at 10:55 pm under News, Opinion.  Print This Post

Read more entries by Danny Mendez.