China Mobile + Softbank + Vodafone : Joint Innovation Lab for MobileInternet Services

China Mobile + Softbank + Vodafone : Joint Innovation Lab for Mobile Internet Services. China Mobile, Softbank and Vodafone have agreed to establish a Joint Innovation Lab (JIL) to promote the development of new mobile technologies, applications and services. The three companies expect the initiative will help to accelerate the commercial deployment of mobile internet services.

The JIL will focus on the rapidly growing areas of mobile internet services, such as mobile widgets*. Initially, the JIL plans to develop a platform for mobile widgets to encourage the development of innovative new services that can leverage mobile operators' unique capabilities. The JIL also welcomes the co-operation of vendors and developers in the creation of new applications and services.

The establishment of the JIL and completion is subject to regulatory approvals and certain customary closing conditions.