SoftBank Launches Multi-Gigabit 5G mmWave in Japan

SoftBank has launched its 5G millimeter (mmWave) service in Japan using devices based on Qualcomm Snapdragon 5G Mobile Platforms and Modem-RF Systems. 5G mmWave allows Japanese users to enjoy the fastest possible multi-Gigabit download speeds in the country.

Along with the launch, SoftBank is making the “Pocket WiFi 5G A004ZT“ 5G mmWave mobile hotspot available for sale. All initial 5G mmWave-compatible mobile devices in SoftBank’s portfolio, including soon-to-be announced smartphones, are expected to be powered by Qualcomm's 5G mmWave products.

The deployment of 5G mmWave is critical to unleashing the full potential of 5G and addressing the massive increase in mobile data demand. 5G mmWave allows leading operators to take advantage of the large amount of spectrum resources available in higher bands, enabling them to deliver the world’s fastest multi-gigabit cellular speeds and low latency connectivity. It is also a cost-effective way for mobile operators to increase the network capacity needed to meet the increasing demand for data in dense urban, fixed wireless access and enterprise environments, with savings up to 35% in total cost of ownership compared to sole use of sub-6 GHz bands.

“5G mmWave is critical for mobile operators to stay competitive and to realize the full potential of 5G to transform many industries,“ said Francesco Grilli, vice president of product management at Qualcomm. “Japan is at the forefront in deploying the most advanced 5G technologies such as mmWave, and we are honored by working with SoftBank to bring the fastest mobile experiences to Japanese consumers and businesses.“

“SoftBank is pleased to collaborate with Qualcomm and use its leading 5G mmWave technology to offer world-class 5G service to our subscribers,“ said Keigo Sugano, senior vice president and head of product division at SoftBank. “We look forward to continuing our long-standing collaboration with Qualcomm to support Japan’s growth and leadership using the most advanced wireless innovations.“

This announcement follows SoftBank’s commercial launch of 5G Sub-6 GHz service with smartphones powered by Snapdragon 5G Mobile Platforms in March 2020. The commercial launch of 5G mmWave significantly strengthens SoftBank’s 5G network capabilities, with more mmWave capable mobile devices to be launched going forward.