Japanese mobile operators are moving into a new market, according to The Wall Street Journal: selling health insurance to their subscribers. For instance, Au Insurance is offering a free three-month trial of an insurance plan to KDDI’s mobile subscribers who already use its fitness apps, says the article. Au Insurance is a partnership between KDDI and Nissay Dowa Insurance.

Meanwhile, KDDI’s rivals are in the same race. NTT Docomo offers health insurance to its subscribers from Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance and Softbank pushes a product from Sompo Japan Insurance.

Au Insurance’s policies are aimed at users keen on sport and outdoor activities. They have names such as Runner’s Plan and Outing Plan and are targeted at demographics, such as young women in their 20s and 30s, who are often ignored by traditional insurers.  The cost of a policy such as the Runner’s Plan is JPY470-970 (about US$6-12) per month, a sum that is paid through the subscriber’s mobile bill.