In France, Switzerland, Finland and the Czech Republic, for example, Internet information services packaged for the thin-pipe network and small phone displays allow users to access their bank records, Internet mail and information services such as horoscopes, news and stock quotes.

CNN: Cell phones aren't just for gabbing

For all its success, for instance, Oracle Japan sells its databases through other Japanese software houses, which continue to charge for their services (now packaged with an Oracle database) on a fixed-price basis.

ECONOMIST: Software in Japan

The company's industry segments are primarily financial services and insurance comprising enterprises providing banking, finance and insurance services, manufacturing, enterprises in the energy, utilities, communication and services and retail, consumer packaged goods, logistics and life sciences.

FORBES: #672 Infosys