NTT Com offers map-linked micro-blog for cell phones

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NTT Communications (NTT Com) has launched the beta version of a free micro-blog mobile service in Japan, named “Locaty,” that shows the user’s current location on a map. Micro-blogs, which allow users to upload and share short comments, are easier to use than conventional blogs and enable information to be shared faster than with a social networking system.

The map-link feature of NTT Com’s new micro-blog enables people with 3G mobile phones to immediately show others where they are located. Using this feature, users can share more practical and topical information with micro-bloggers nearby.

Locaty also enables fast exchanges of information. Whenever someone responds to a comment by the user or a registered friend uploads a comment, a notice is sent immediately to the user’s phone mail.

For privacy, the location function can be set to show only which city the user is in. In addition, the service is monitored on a 24/7 basis for security.

Going forward, NTT Com plans to upgrade the practicality of Locaty by linking it to location-based content, such as local news, events and dining. New business models incorporating the service also are planned.