KDDI Corp. announced new mobile phone subscription packages Thursday that will slash calling fees, raise handset prices and possibly alter the alliances among handset manufacturers.
Starting Nov. 12, subscribers to KDDI's au service will have the option of switching their subscription fees to a minimum of ¥1,000 a month, instead of ¥1,800, if they give up their right to buy new mobile phones at discount prices.
Subscribers who often switch phones will still be able to use KDDI's current subscription plans, which charge higher monthly fees but offer steep discounts on new handsets.