Despite the naysayers the iPhone continues to gain steam in Japan. The latest evidence of this trend comes via Softbank's latest software announcement promoting Speeek, a voice-enabled electronic dictionary application that translates Japanese to English or Chinese.

Using voice recognition technology the application can translate up to 1,500 spoken phrases mostly centered on travel/tourist situations and basic communication. Although designed specifically for Japanese speakers, the tool could also be effectively used as a study aid for advanced native English speakers studying Japanese. The application is available now for just 1,800 yen ($19.88) here.

Via BBSS