Docomo, one of Japan’s leading manufacturers of mobile devices, has recently begun to research the use of E-paper in cellular phones.  E-paper, developed by SiPix Imaging, is “paper which uses small chambers, called microcups, that are filled with white particles and a colored liquid, allowing the E-paper to display two colors.”  This technology allows for the creation of an e-paper keypad that can change its layout based on the user’s current requirements.  For example, a keypad could be programmed to display both western text as well as Japanese characters, depending on the needs of the user.

In addition to the aforementioned use, E-paper could also be valuable for mobile gaming applications.  Here, when a game is about to be played, the keypad could be switched to display the game’s controls, rather than numbers.  Overall, E-Paper is an interesting innovation and a step forward for mobile technology.  E-paper offers a fluid alternative to the current crop of stagnant keypads and finicky touch-screens that are present in most cell phones.  Unfortunately, Docomo has yet to implement this technology within their product line.  Further innovation is needed before E-paper can become a commercially viable technology.

For more information about this technology can be found by visiting the following link: <http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SRUjKZg6pQg&feature=channel_page>.