Line to launch mobile internet service, will include free access to Facebook

Outside the venue today in Chiba, Japan.

Messaging app giant Line revealed today that it’s set to launch a mobile internet service using its own SIM cards. Called Line Mobile, it’ll launch in Japan this summer.

There’ll be no charge for streaming from Line Music.

Line Corp director Jun Masuda announced the move this afternoon at the Line Conference Tokyo 2016 event.

The Line Mobile SIM will give users free access to the messaging app as well as to Facebook and Twitter. That means when you browse Line, Facebook, or Twitter, view and upload photos, it won’t diminish your monthly mobile data allowance. The free data rations include Line’s online calling feature and also streaming from Line Music.

Line Corp’s Jun Masada unveils the Line Mobile SIM this afternoon.

Other streaming music services may also be exempted at a later date if Line forms partnerships with other companies.

Line is partnering with NTT Docomo’s cellular network for the new service. An array of plans are set to start at US$4.40 a month excluding tax. More details will be available closer to the launch date, the company said this afternoon, including whether this would be sold bundled with a smartphone.

Earlier today at the event, Line Corp CEO Takeshi Idezawa revealed plans to get businesses of all sizes to open stores inside the messaging app.

Converted from Japanese yen. Rate: US$1 = JPY 112.8.