Japan’s four major mobile operators have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly explore ways to expand the coverage of 28GHz mmWave 5G.
SoftBank Corp, KDDI, NTT Docomo and Rakuten Mobile will examine how the reach of mmWave 5G can be improved within the limitations of the frequency band, which provides solid connectivity over short distances but is vulnerable to physical obstructions and signal attenuation.
The operators said they would study the use of compatible base stations and network architectures to identify options for widening mmWave 5G coverage.
Their exploration will also consider repeater equipment and other relevant assets that could help extend the reach of the technology.
The agreement could also involve some form of shared access. While each operator will continue deploying its own mmWave 5G equipment, the companies will explore “how to effectively” use those assets to improve coverage.
The operators said the initiative is driven by a common challenge: difficulties in deploying enough mmWave 5G base stations within a timely timeframe.
Under the research framework, each operator will determine its own requirements for expanding mmWave 5G and assess how a combined approach to improving coverage could meet those needs.
The companies said the initiative reflects an ambition towards “transcending the boundaries” between the operators as they explore ways to make more effective use of mmWave 5G infrastructure.
