NTT DoCoMo and Microsoft have announced a collaboration to incorporate Windows Media technologies in NTT DoCoMo's 3G FOMA handsets.

The first model to take advantage of the new feature is the F902iS model, scheduled for release this summer. The F902iS will support both Windows Media Audio and Windows Media Digital Rights Management 10 for Portable Devices (WMDRM-PD). NTT DoCoMo will take into consideration the incorporation of Windows Media Video, Microsoft's version of SMPTE VC-1 technologies, in future handsets.

Windows Media technology will enable NTT DoCoMo handsets to play music downloaded from more than 100 online music services worldwide. Also, it will support music content CD ripping in the Windows Media Audio format.

"Microsoft's Windows Media platform and the company's commitment toward enabling new digital rights management solutions for the wireless environment are helping to push the industry forward," stated Takeshi Natsuno, Senior Vice President, Managing Director, Multimedia Services of NTT DoCoMo. "With support for Windows Media, users of our FOMA handsets will enjoy a broader range of services and more choices for entertainment."

Microsoft recently announced it will make significant investments in its DRM technologies, specifically to enable a new offering and drive scenarios that support the wireless industry.