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Apple, Dentsu partner to expand iAds to Japan in early 2011

Apple announced on Wednesday that it has partnered with The Dentsu Group to expand the iAd mobile advertising network to Japan starting in early 2011.

Dentsu will handle the selling and creative execution of iAds locally in Japan, while Apple will host, target and deliver iAds to iPhone and iPod touch users.

"After an incredibly successful launch in the US where we’ve already doubled the number of brands on the network, we’re excited to bring iAd to Japan," said Andy Miller, Apple’s vice president of iAd. "Dentsu is one of the world’s most prestigious advertising agencies, making them an ideal partner for iAds in Japan."

The announcement comes as developers recently revealed they have begun receiving iAd impressions from around the world. Until recently, the service was only available in the United States and United Kingdom.

Apple's partnership with Dentsu ensures that advertisements will be localized and tailored for the Japanese market. Dentsu will provide one-stop services for the iAd network in Japan, including creative production and media planning.

"We’re thrilled to be joining with Apple to introduce such a powerful new ad platform in Japan," said Ryuichi Mori, Senior Executive Vice President, Dentsu Inc. "Mobile advertising is Japan’s fastest-growing platform and iAd’s rich media experience and engaged audience of iPhone and iPod touch users make it uniquely positioned to capture mobile’s full potential for advertisers and developers."

Dentsu was founded in 1901 and was the world's top brand agency for nearly 40 years. Based in Tokyo, the company is active worldwide in marketing and production in a number of industries, including movies, anime and other online entertainment. It has more than 6,000 clients and close to 20,000 employees worldwide.

Apple has been aggressively expanding its iAd network since it first launched for iOS 4 devices in July. Last week, it was revealed that Apple plans to open a new Manhattan office in an effort to give iAd employees more influence with advertising industry executives on Madison Avenue.