NTT DoCoMo Inc. on Monday chose to go with a low-key launch of its third-generation (3G) cellular service amid low expectations by retailers and customers alike.

Customers examine new cellular phones Monday in Shinjuku, Tokyo, compatible with NTT DoCoMo Inc.'s third-generation service.

DoCoMo is heralding FOMA as the world's first full-fledged third-generation cellular service but is offering only one application designed for the higher 3G transmission speeds -- a TV-telephone function.