customers enjoyed web browsing and games on their mobile devices . Non-voice communication services expanded , but customers had to purchase new handsets to access new applications or games since some applications were hard-coded and only available on specific terminals .”
In 2000 , 3G was introduced , with DOCOMO playing a significant role in contributing to the 3GPP standard specification work . “ We led technical discussions and managed the discussions as one of the officials , serving as the Chair . We were the first operator to deploy 3G networks nationwide and provided rich content via the 3G network . However , the data rate was still limited to 64Kbps or 384kbps . Later , HSPA technology was introduced , enabling much higher throughput .
“ Moving forward , we proposed LTE together with our partners and launched 4G services in 2010 ,” Abeta describes . “ Our 4G radio access network ( RAN ) was fully multi-vendor interoperable . We defined interfaces that were not initially defined by 3GPP , making us the first operator to deploy a multi-vendor interoperable RAN . The rise of smartphones in conjunction with our 4G services revolutionised the user experience and its benefits are well-known .”
While DOCOMO ’ s communication services continued to thrive , the company also expanded its non-communication services , evolving into the smart-life service segment .
When it comes to the rollout of 5G , DOCOMO has contributed not only to 3GPP but also to the O-RAN alliance to realise multivendor interoperable Open RAN solutions .
“ OREX IS AKIN TO A SINGLE VENDOR SOLUTION , OFFERING A PRE-INTEGRATED SOLUTION THAT SIMPLIFIES INTEGRATION , INTEROPERABILITY , AND LIFECYCLE MANAGEMENT ”
SADAYUKI ABETA GLOBAL HEAD OF OPEN RAN SOLUTIONS / OREX EVANGELIST , NTT DOCOMO
16 docomo . ne . jp / english /