NTT DOCOMO recently announced the commercial deployment of New Radio-Dual Connectivity (NR-DC) across three frequency bands: Sub-6 (3.7GHz and 4.5GHz bands) and millimetre-wave (28GHz band). This technology will facilitate high-speed transmissions by connecting two 5G base stations and allowing simultaneous transmission and reception across multiple frequencies.
Starting from 1 August, NTT said that the technology will offer Japan’s fastest download speeds, reaching up to 6.6Gbps, using the 5G Standalone (SA) architecture. These features will initially be available in selected zones within the 5G SA coverage areas in Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture, with plans for gradual expansion.
Standalone (SA) mode is an optional 5G service for specific smartphones and other mobile devices under a 5G service contract. Utilisation requires a 5G SA subscription, a compatible device, and a suitable SIM card. Services must be used within a 5G SA coverage area.
In December 2021, DOCOMO began offering 5G SA services. Since August 2022, it has combined one of the Sub-6 frequencies with the millimetre-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 millimetre-wave band for even faster transmission speeds.
Moving forward, DOCOMO will continue to expand its range of millimetre-wave band-compatible devices and extend service coverage in response to customer needs, aiming to enhance convenience and quality of life for its customers.
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