Innovative Mobile Services

First Service
A Beijing information service company began offering translation and tour guide services to foreign travelers in the city via a mobile phone that can "listen, think and speak". The intelligent mobile phone is based on a voice-recognition system which provides Chinese translations and multi-language information services. This service will help foreigners avoid communication embarrassments while sight-seeing, shopping, dining or renting a car during their stay here.

Second Service
Washers and dryers that link wirelessly to internet-connected home networks are being tested by consumers who are receiving updates on their dirty laundry via mobile phones, computers and TV sets. Messages not only indicate when a wash is complete but also can warn that a lint filter is clogged or a load is too large. Users can remotely command the machines to fluff dry clothes or start a load from a distance after being told - oops - they forgot to start the wash. trial of the system launched by the Internet Home Alliance. The project, which involves Whirlpool Corp., Panasonic and Microsoft Corp., relies on a wireless network, two TV tuners and Microsoft Media Server software to send the details to devices across the home network and beyond. At Georgia Tech, a program called LaundryView allows students to get mobile phone calls and emails when their laundry's rinse cycle is done. They also can find out which washers and dryers are available through a website.