Memory loss leads to 3G withdrawal

NTT DoCoMo, the Japanese mobile operator running the only commercial 3G network in the world, was forced yesterday to recall 1,500 handsets.

The FOMA N2002 phones built by NEC were withdrawn from use because a software problem was causing it to lose memory. Services such as streamed and downloaded video make heavy demands on the computer memory in the handsets.

NTT DoCoMo and NEC said they hoped to have the phone back on sale at the beginning of December.

For more on 3G in action, see
BT's 3G Manx showcase set for November
http://www.silicon.com/a48287
DoCoMo set to meet 3G target
http://www.silicon.com/a48975
First 3G phones on the way
http://www.silicon.com/a47805
'3G' hits the streets... of Seoul
http://www.silicon.com/a44736