It was just a matter of time. The NTT Docomo, Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., and Sharp Corporation have jointly developed a cellphone that can be used as a car key.   The new mobile gadget is expected to have the usual remote functionalities like locking and unlocking car doors and even starting the car.

After unveiling the devices at CEATEC Japan, consumers can expect a launch in the first quarter of 2009.  Modern cars are increasingly using keyless ignition and entry devices that are expected to become pretty much standard for the cars of the 21st century.

From mere phones to personal digital assistants to multi-media devices, cellphone have gone a long way to making life very convenient for us.  Just one caveat, just make sure you don’t lose the cellphone or you can’t get in the car.