NTT DoCoMo says its will launch the i-mode FeliCa Service for mobile wallet applications next month in combination with the company's first four i-mode smart-card handsets — three 2G mova 506iC series handsets and the 3G FOMA F900iC handset.

The handsets are equipped to use Sony's Edy e-money system for purchases at 9,000 participating shops in Japan. Current balances and payment records can be viewed using the mobile screen.

Initially, 39 companies have signed up to offer m-wallet functions over the handsets, including McDonalds, airline ANA, JCB and the Japanese Railway. Subscribers must first visit the providers' Web sites and download applications to their mobiles.