Okay, here’s a detailed article summarizing the announcement from the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan regarding a survey on the use of 5G in the 26GHz and 40GHz bands, focusing on clarity and accessibility.
Japan to Explore 5G Expansion in 26GHz and 40GHz Bands: Survey Launched for Future Applications
On May 18, 2025, the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) of Japan announced the launch of a survey to explore the potential for expanding the use of 5G (fifth-generation mobile communication system) in the 26GHz and 40GHz frequency bands. This initiative aims to understand the current landscape, challenges, and opportunities associated with deploying 5G in these higher frequency ranges.
Why 26GHz and 40GHz?
These higher frequency bands, sometimes referred to as millimeter wave (mmWave) bands, are crucial for achieving the full potential of 5G. Here’s why:
- Higher Bandwidth: These bands offer significantly larger bandwidth compared to lower frequency bands. This translates to much faster data speeds and greater capacity to support numerous connected devices simultaneously.
- Ultra-Fast Speeds: The increased bandwidth enables the blazing-fast download and upload speeds promised by 5G, allowing for applications that require real-time responsiveness and large data transfers.
- Low Latency: mmWave technology contributes to very low latency (delay in data transmission), which is essential for applications like autonomous driving, remote surgery, and immersive virtual reality.
The Purpose of the Survey
The MIC’s survey is designed to gather information to inform future policy decisions related to the allocation and utilization of these valuable frequency bands. Key objectives of the survey include:
- Understanding Current Usage and Future Needs: The survey will assess the current state of 5G deployment in Japan, identify areas where the 26GHz and 40GHz bands could be most beneficial, and anticipate future demand for these frequencies.
- Identifying Challenges and Barriers: Deploying 5G in mmWave bands comes with its own set of challenges, such as:
- Limited Range: mmWave signals have a shorter range compared to lower frequency signals, requiring a denser network of base stations.
- Susceptibility to Obstructions: mmWave signals are easily blocked by buildings, trees, and even weather conditions.
- Cost of Deployment: The infrastructure required for mmWave 5G can be more expensive to deploy and maintain.
- Exploring Potential Applications: The survey seeks to uncover innovative use cases for 5G in the 26GHz and 40GHz bands, spanning various industries and sectors. Examples include:
- Smart Factories: Enabling real-time monitoring, control, and automation in manufacturing environments.
- Connected Vehicles: Supporting autonomous driving, vehicle-to-vehicle communication, and enhanced navigation systems.
- Smart Cities: Facilitating intelligent transportation, public safety, and environmental monitoring.
- Healthcare: Enabling remote diagnostics, telemedicine, and robotic surgery.
- Entertainment: Delivering immersive virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences.
Who is Involved?
The MIC’s survey targets a wide range of stakeholders, including:
- Mobile Network Operators (MNOs): Companies like NTT Docomo, KDDI, SoftBank, and Rakuten Mobile who are building and operating 5G networks.
- Equipment Manufacturers: Companies that produce 5G infrastructure, such as base stations and user devices.
- Industry Associations: Organizations representing various industries that could benefit from 5G technology.
- Research Institutions: Universities and research centers that are conducting research on 5G and related technologies.
- Local Governments: Municipalities that are planning to deploy 5G in their communities.
Expected Outcomes and Impact
The results of this survey will play a crucial role in shaping Japan’s 5G strategy and policies related to spectrum allocation. The information gathered will help the MIC:
- Optimize Spectrum Allocation: Make informed decisions about how to allocate the 26GHz and 40GHz bands to ensure efficient and effective use of this valuable resource.
- Promote Innovation: Foster innovation by creating a regulatory environment that encourages the development and deployment of new 5G applications and services.
- Drive Economic Growth: Accelerate the adoption of 5G across various industries, contributing to economic growth and improved quality of life for citizens.
In Conclusion
The MIC’s survey on the use of 5G in the 26GHz and 40GHz bands is a significant step towards realizing the full potential of 5G in Japan. By understanding the opportunities and challenges associated with these higher frequency bands, Japan can pave the way for a future powered by ultra-fast, low-latency connectivity.
26GHz帯及び40GHz帯における第5世代移動通信システムの利用に関する調査の実施
The AI has delivered the news.
The following question was used to generate the response from Google Gemini:
At 2025-05-18 20:00, ’26GHz帯及び40GHz帯における第5世代移動通信システムの利用に関する調査の実施’ was published according to 総務省. Please write a detailed article with related information in an easy-to-understand manner. Please answer in English.
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