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Softbank Confirms Emoji and Digital TV for iPhone in Japan

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Nikkei Trendy reports that SoftBank's president has confirmed that emoji (Japanese emoticons) are coming to the iPhone in Japan:

"This was made possible by us telling Apple that emoji is essential for Japanese users. And this is Japan specific service."

He also mentions that they will also introduced a 3rd party accessory which provides mobile television service and an extended battery pack for the iPhone. SetteB.IT provides a photo of the device:

092538 05038b softbanktvbattery 500

The device will act as a TV tuner which will transmit video to the iPhone via Wi-Fi but can also act as an extended battery pack when connected directly to the phone. An App Store application is required to support the device and will be made available for free through the Japanese App Store. Price has not yet been announced.

[Thanks coelacanth]

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