Gemalto (Euronext NL0000400653 GTO), the world leader in digital security, announced that it has been selected by Japan's KDDI - a leading mobile communication provider with over 31 million subscribers, to provide its User Identity Module (UIM) cards and Trusted Service Management (TSM) solution for for their near-field communication (NFC) program.
From May to December 2010, participants in this pilot can experience various types of NFC services ranging from mobile payments, transportation services, e-driver licenses, e-ticketing, as well as information acquisition from smart posters. This trial will have participation from a wide-range of leading industries including car manufacturers, airline companies, and cinema operators.
Gemalto plays an important role in this trial, entrusted with the preparation and management of sensitive user information between KDDI and other service providers, as well as the provision of multiple mobile applications to subscribers. This NFC project will be based on international standards, complying with the GSMA's Pay-Buy-Mobile specifications. GSMA is the worldwide association of Mobile Network Operators. Japan is already the world's most advanced mobile contactless market with 18% of mobile subscribers actively using mobile contactless services; and industry experts are optimistic about quick consumer pick-up.
"We selected Gemalto based on their global expertise, sound experience and achievements in the field of NFC. We are entrusting Gemalto with providing and managing the secure channels between KDDI and the service providers to conveniently connect customers in the digital world," said Kenichi Bandou, Senior Manager, Business Enhancement Department, KDDI CORPORATION.
"Gemalto is honored to be partnering with KDDI in this comprehensive new-generation NFC pilot. Japan is a leading market in contactless services with a well-established infrastructure. We look forward to providing our proven expertise and globally acquired experience to further enrich this dynamic ecosystem, to bring a new dimension in contactless usage to Japanese mobile users," added Tan Teck-Lee, President, Gemalto Asia.