era data transmitted over optical fiber lines. This service has been praised by users for its ability to allow users to check on their own children while at kindergarten, something that was not possible in the past, and to allow others such as grandparents to view their grandchildren from remote locations, resulting in both a sense of security and enjoyment.

### b. Network use in shopping

At conventional stores, payment has typically been made in cash or by credit card, but in recent years, use of cashless payment systems that use contactless IC cards or mobile phones has been increasing. The contactless IC cards of one company that provides electronic money services had issued more than 3.8 million cards by March 2004, and the number of shops where they can be used has increased to about 3,700 nationwide.

### c. Network services originating in Japan spread throughout the world

Various network services developed and offered in Japan are steadily spreading throughout the world. The mobile phone Internet connection services that began in Japan in February 1999 are now offered by overseas partner communications carriers, primarily in Europe, and the number of subscribers exceeds 2 million (as of January 2004).

Use of contactless IC cards for public transportation services is expanding in Hong Kong, Singapore, China, and other areas, and in June of 2003, a cumulative total of 22.5 million cards have been issued.

Japanese game makers have launched online game services that can be accessed over networks in North America, and the number of subscribers is approximately 200,000 (as of January 2004).

## (ii) Recent developments concerning network services overseas

a. Network services in the Republic of Korea

In the Republic of Korea, which boasts a highly-developed broadband environment, new apartment complexes with home networks installed have been completed. Residents can use control panels in each room to operate home appliances and control electricity and gas as well as manage household functions such as operating home appliances from outside the home via a mobile phone.

### b. Network Services in the United States

A theme park in the United States is offering a service that allows visitors to confirm the location of family and friends who accompanied them if they become separated. Visitors are given wrist-watch type wireless communications terminals and they can check on the location of other visitors who accompanied them at kiosks located throughout the park, making it possible to find lost children.

## (3) Expectations concerning ubiquitous network services

It is expected that ubiquitous networks that allow users to connect to information and communications networks at any time from anywhere will be created in the near future.

Use intentions concerning ubiquitous network services that are currently under consideration indicate that working people face location and time restraints because of time spent working, and there are strong expectations that ubiquitous network services will help people overcome these restraints. Homemakers spend long hours in the home and have relatively heavy burdens in taking care of children or seniors, cooking, and performing housework, so expectations for ubiquitous network services to support these tasks are high. Seniors expect that ubiquitous network services will help them engage in meaningful activities without worry. Youth seek to use ubiquitous network services that will provide them with greater convenience and emotion (Figures 1-2-11 and 1-2-12).