Softbank smacks NTT DoCoMo

Softbank started their 3G prepaid service in Japan. This means that people with 3G GSM phone with W-CDMA 2100 aka "UMTS 2100" band, can use the service. My phone, is a HTC TyTn rebranded to AT&T/Cingular 8525, which means it supports the W-CDMA 2100 band. This is truly a world phone. As with most GSM "world" phones, the limitation was always Japan, but now with this prepaid service, GSM phones with quad GSM band (850,900,1800,1900) and WITH tri UMTS band (850, 1900, 2100) is a true "world phone" for those travelers wanting to buy a prepaid SIM or USIM(3G version of SIM) cards for their trips anywhere in the world! I love this phone :)

So when will NTT DoCoMo launch their 3G prepaid service for gaijin tavelers? Sure, people with UMTS/W-CDMA 2100 band could use their phone before in Japan, but roaming. But roaming prices? Too expensive.