NTT DoCoMo develops prototype micro fuel cell for FOMA handsets

NTT DoCoMo, Inc have developed a prototype micro fuel cell for 3G FOMA handsets. The prototype, manufactured by Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd., is expected to greatly extend FOMA handset usage time once it goes into commercial production.

The micro fuel cell is aimed at meeting user demands for more convenient handsets with greater power capacity, as well as reduced environmental impact. The company says power consumption demands are rising as FOMA users take advantage of new services and handset features, including flat-rate monthly billing for data services and videophone. DoCoMo is addressing this issue in part by increasing the capacity of its lithium-ion batteries, the most commonly used battery in handsets today.

The micro fuel cell is a standalone device shaped like a cradle for recharging handsets. It generates electric power by combining hydrogen and cheap, environmentally harmless methanol to produce a chemical reaction. Hydrogen ions are extracted from the air via a layer sandwiched between positive and negative electrodes.

The prototype has the same basic specifications of other FOMA handset rechargers and will be compatible with all FOMA handsets. Further development of the prototype is expected to be completed by the end of fiscal 2005.