Logica, the Japanese mobile data technology business, said it would launch a mobile phone Internet access device to rival existing WAP phones. The phone, which allows content to be downloaded more directly from the Internet, is based on a programming language called "compact HTML", which underlies Japan's iMode service offered by carrier NTT DoCoMo. iMode technology differs from Western WAP technology in that the phones are continuously connected to the Internet and can receive information without the user having to make a call. The company said the service would be available in Europe later this year, or early next year.