SoftBank has selected Nokia and Ericsson as key 5G vendors for the deployment of a multi-band 5G network in Japan.
Nokia's 5G AirScale solution will be deployed across Japan, bringing 5G RAN to businesses and consumers alike. Ericsson will provide SoftBank with RAN equipment, including products from the Ericsson Radio System portfolio. This will enable SoftBank to launch 5G services on their newly granted 3.9-4.0 GHz and 29.1-29.5 GHz bands for 5G New Radio (NR).
The 5G investment will benefit consumers by bringing them a 5G enhanced Mobile BroadBand (eMBB) service, with 5G Ultra Reliable Low Latency Connectivity (URLLC) and enhanced Machine Type Communication (eMTC).
Huawei and ZTE who were both 4G vendors for Softbank weren't selected despite participating in earlier 5G trials, according to Bloomberg. Two other leading mobile operators in Japan, NTT Docomo and KDDI are expected to shun Huawei and ZTE as well.
John Harrington, Head of Nokia Japan
We are delighted to continue our long-term relationship with SoftBank and to be working with them as a trusted end to end partner at such an important milestone in the transformation to 5G. We are committed to help SoftBank launch their commercial 5G network.
Chris Houghton, SVP, Head of Market Area North East Asia, Ericsson
With the help of our advanced product portfolio, SoftBank can unlock the potential of 5G for Japanese society and we look forward to building on our long-standing partnership.
