In a move expected to invigorate Japan's mobile Internet market, KDDI Corporation has announced an agreement with Google Inc. to incorporate Google's search engine into KDDI's EZ Web Internet service for mobile phones, beginning in July of this year. The search service is the first of its kind in Japan and will synthesize content aimed at both mobile phones and PCs, making EZ Web searches easier while enabling direct access to information sought by users.

KDDI's content information management will enable users more direct access to the information they seek. Consider, for example, a search for information about an artist: In the past, a search would turn up links to relevant content in officially designated categories, forcing the user to perform further searches in each category. However, the new service will provide direct access to music, applications, books and magazines, shopping and other information related to the artist.

Additionally, through the use of Google's proprietary search technology, text advertisements based on search terms are displayed alongside search results, enabling the provision of targeted information, including advertisements, that addresses the needs of all users.

Going forward, say the companies, both KDDI and Google will strive for rapid improvement in search functionality, enabling simple and direct access to a wide range of information via mobile phones and in doing so, enhancing their usefulness.