Introduction

Rakuten Mobile officially launched its services in 2020 as Japan’s fourth carrier. Unlike other carriers, it chose a different approach to building its communication infrastructure. This article focuses on Rakuten Mobile’s base stations, detailing their technical features and installation status.

Features of Rakuten Mobile’s Base Stations

Rakuten Mobile’s base stations are built using the latest virtualization technology, significantly improving flexibility and cost efficiency compared to traditional hardware-dependent base stations. Key points include:

1. Introduction of Virtualization Technology: Rakuten Mobile adopts Network Functions Virtualization (NFV), realizing a software-based network. This enables rapid service deployment and cost reduction.
2. Adoption of Open RAN: Rakuten Mobile uses Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) technology, allowing the combination of equipment from different vendors. This provides a high-quality network at competitive prices.

Installation Status and Progress

Rakuten Mobile is expanding its network by installing base stations nationwide. Recently, new base stations were installed in 46 municipalities across 22 prefectures between September 30 and October 15, 2024. As of August 2024, Rakuten Mobile’s 4G population coverage rate reached 99.9%, calculated based on areas where more than 50% of locations in approximately 500m blocks used for the national census are covered.

Prospects

Rakuten Mobile plans to continue installing base stations to strengthen nationwide coverage. Additionally, it is focusing on expanding its 5G network to promote next-generation communication technology. Prospects include:

1. Expansion of 5G Network: Rakuten Mobile aims to accelerate the deployment of its 5G network, providing faster and lower-latency communication services.
2. Implementation of Platinum Band: Rakuten Mobile started commercial services on the 700MHz platinum band on June 27, 2024. This frequency band penetrates building walls and obstacles more easily, improving communication quality in urban buildings and subways.

Conclusion

Rakuten Mobile’s base stations, with their innovative technology and strategy, are providing new value to Japan’s communication infrastructure. Continued installation and technological innovation are expected to deliver high-quality communication services to more users.

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