Japan's NTT DoCoMo has reportedly agreed to let Amazon sell pre-paid SIMs for services using its networks, and has contracted Alcatel-Lucent to build the IP network for its LTE services.
Japanese press have reported that Amazon plans to start selling pre-paid SIM cards in the market that will work on DoCoMo's networks, in advance of the planned launch of its Kindle range in the market.
Amazon will be offering 500MB SIM cards for a flat price of 1980 yen ($25), Japan Daily Presssaid.
The pricing makes the offerings competitive compared to the typical cost of post-paid plans in the market.
The cards will reportedly work both with DoCoMo's own smartphone and tablets, and devices built to “foreign specifications,” including the iPhone. DoCoMo currently has no plans to officially offer the iPhone to its customers.
Separately, Alcatel-Lucent revealed that the Japanese operator will deploy its service routers for DoCoMo's Xi LTE network.
Alcatel-Lucent will provide its 7750 Service Routers, which include IP/MPLS functionality and integrated IP security functionality.
The rollout will be conducted in co-operation with Fujitsu, DoCoMo's long-standing vendor partner.
DoCoMo was an early mover in the LTE market – the operator launched its Xi LTE network in December 2010.