Tokyo, Japan – NTT Docomo, Inc. announced today that it will initiate the commercial deployment of New Radio-Dual Connectivity (NR-DC) across three frequency bands---Sub-6 (3.7GHz and 4.5GHz bands) and millimeter-wave (28GHz band)---for high-speed transmissions connecting two 5G base stations and simultaneously transmitting/receiving across multiple frequencies supported by these stations.
From August 1, the technology will offer Japan's fastest download speeds, up to 6.6Gbps, *1 using 5G Standalone (SA) architecture. These features will initially be available in specific zones within the 5G SA coverage areas in Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture, *2 with plans for a gradual expansion.
Standalone (SA) mode is an optional 5G service for certain smartphones and other mobile devices under a 5G service contract. Utilization requires a 5G SA subscription, a compatible device, and a compatible SIM card. Services must be used within a 5G SA coverage area.
In December 2021, DOCOMO began offering 5G SA services, and from August 2022 combines one of two Sub-6 frequencies with the millimeter-wave band to deliver maximum download speeds of 4.9Gbps and upload speeds of 1.1Gbps. With this latest development, both Sub-6 frequencies will be combined with the millimeter-wave band for even faster transmission speeds.
Supported Devices
| Model | Max. Download (5G SA) | Available from |
|---|---|---|
| Xperia 1 VI SO-51E*3 | 6.6Gbps | Aug. 1, 2024 |
| Galaxy S24 Ultra SC-52E*3 | 6.6Gbps | In/after Nov. 2024 |
| Galaxy Z Fold6 SC-55E*3 | 6.6Gbps | In/after Nov. 2024 |
Going forward, DOCOMO will continue to broaden its range of millimeter-wave band-compatible devices and extend service coverage in response to customer needs, with the goal of providing customers with enhanced convenience and quality of life.
-
The stated speeds are the maximums for sending and receiving under a 5G SA contract. These do not represent actual speeds, which may vary based on the communication environment and network congestion. Please visit: https://www.docomo.ne.jp/service/5g_sa/ (Only available in Japanese)
-
For more details, please visit: https://www.docomo.ne.jp/service/5g_sa/ (Only available in Japanese)
-
Compatible via software update. Please visit: https://www.docomo.ne.jp/support/update_procedure/ (Only available in Japanese)
Email Newsletters
Sign up to receive TelecomTV's top news and videos, plus exclusive subscriber-only content direct to your inbox.
