Samsung Initiates KDDI’s 5G Network Rollout on 700MHz

By using 700MHz, KDDI aims to quadruple its 5G coverage expansion rate

Samsung Electronics successfully brings its advanced 700MHz solutions on air for KDDI’s commercial launch of 5G. The use of 700MHz spectrum in this rollout will enhance KDDI’s 5G network coverage, improving indoor and outdoor mobile experiences, and provide reliable 5G connectivity to users.

This low-band 5G network is a significant addition to KDDI’s existing 5G services, which already support the mid-band and mmWave spectrums, introducing a wave of new services to more users. With the benefit of these multiple spectrum bands, KDDI can provide reliable connectivity, coupled with high speeds and wider coverage. For the rollout, KDDI selected Samsung’s advanced 5G solutions, including its 700MHz radio and its next-generation indoor and outdoor baseband units.

“We are proud to deliver on our mission of providing advanced 5G services to our customers, leveraging cutting-edge network technologies,” said Toshikazu Yokai, Executive Officer, Chief Director of Mobile Technology at KDDI. “With the support of leading vendors like Samsung, we hope to continue expanding our 5G service areas with the goal of reaching 90 percent population coverage by early next year. We look forward to bringing improved 5G experience to more users.”

“Samsung is delighted to take part in KDDI’s launch of 700MHz 5G, and in delivering enhanced user experience to millions of customers in Japan. We are proud to contribute to Japan’s 5G expansion,” said Sohyong Chong, Senior Vice President and Head of Software R&D, Networks Business at Samsung Electronics. “We look forward to continuing to leverage our network expertise and 5G technology leadership to support KDDI in their 5G strategy and business objectives.”

Samsung has pioneered the successful delivery of 5G end-to-end solutions including chipsets, radios, and core. Through ongoing research and development, Samsung drives the industry to advance 5G networks with its market-leading product portfolio from fully virtualized RAN and Core to private network solutions and AI-powered automation tools. The company is currently providing connectivity to hundreds of millions of users around the world.

About KDDI
KDDI is telecommunication service provider in Japan, offering both mobile and fixed-line communications. With its well-established base of over 58 million customers, and through mobile services and shops offering its “au” brand, KDDI is expanding its services into the “Life Design” business, which includes e-commerce, fintech, nationwide electric power utility services, entertainment and education. With a 60-year history, KDDI is now focusing on creating smart infrastructure through IoT technologies and open innovation with partners and start-up companies in diverse industries. KDDI is accelerating the global growth of its telecommunications consumer business, with operations in Myanmar and Mongolia, and in the global ICT business with the “TELEHOUSE” brand. KDDI (TYO:9433) is listed on the Tokyo stock exchange. http://www.kddi.com/english/