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NTT DoCoMo's first 3G phone with integrated Wi-Fi is now shipping. The previously-announced NEC N900iL runs on DoCoMo's FOMA 3G network and also includes an integrated Wi-Fi radio. The handset offers a "Passage Duple" system for seamlessly transfering calls from the 3G network to VoIP-over-Wi-Fi as the user moves in or out of a covered Wi-Fi area, and the ability to detect if another user is on the same Wi-Fi network or not. All standard phone functions are available as well, including web browsing and instant messaging, both of which work over either the FOMA or Wi-Fi connection.
Also revealed is that the N900iL runs Linux under the hood, a fact the company is trying to downplay. DoCoMo has previously released several Symbian OS handsets, but apparently integrating Wi-Fi and 3G networks proved easier with Linux. Linux-based handhelds and handsets have a minority but strong percentage of the market in Asia/Pacific, although their presence elsewhere is small.
The N900iL will be available direct to businesses for approximately $400 USD.
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