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Softbank Mobile Corp on Wednesday launched services on its new 900MHz platinum band specific base station plan to cope with the dramatic increase of traffic, enhance coverage and build a robust disaster-proof communication network.
Softbank said the platinum band will enable more efficient and wider coverage compared to the existing band. The base station plan incorporates the installation of approximately 16,000 base stations in fiscal 2012, to be expanded up to 41,000 by fiscal 2016, providing 99.9% population coverage.
Currently, 900MHz compatible handsets are iPhone 4, iPhone 4S, iPad 2 (by Apple), etc, and these will be able to utilize the 900MHz communication service. The PANTONE 4 105SH (by SHARP), as well as all of the new handset models being launched this summer, are expected to be 900MHz compatible.
In accordance with the SoftBank Network Enhancement Initiative announced in March 2010, the number of base stations has surpassed 180,000 nationwide. Softbank said it has been making every possible effort to enhance network coverage, including installing SOFTBANK Wi-Fi Spots at 240,000 locations nationwide, in order to improve its data communication service.
© Japan Today/Softbank
9 Comments
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basroil
theResidentJul. 27, 2012 - 06:51AM JST
Odd, everyone I know says that not only does docomo have very poor signal, but that their mail software is so glitchy that they can't even expect to keep emails.
theResident
...or just buy a wi-fi ipad and invest in a DoCoMo LTE mifi that actually works. Softbank blow - their signal blows.
fupayme
Why doesn't softbank just change itself into an Apple store, so they can get more support from Apple, and maybe some investment capital to increase their coverage
Because Im pretty sure everyone who has a softbank contract, has an iphone
Skeeter27
Good I am happy to hear this as I use Softbank and have no intention to change!
Elbuda Mexicano
Just switch to AU???
mitoguitarman
Still can't get a signal in the first floor of my house. I have to go outside to call. But 3 meters to the right, another dead spot. C'mon SoftBank. Get it together.
basroil
GaijinSince74Jul. 26, 2012 - 05:33PM JST
Your iStuff doesn't use anything other than 3G anyway.
And "platinum band" is just frequency for 3G, along with 1850, 1900, 2100 etc.
It's a common misconception among Apple users.
GaijinSince74
So, dear Softbank, if the service has been "launched" why does my 2012 iPad still just say, "SoftBank 3G" in the top left hand corner? Signed, Impatient Early Adopter!
GenConsensus
It's great to hear. Finally. Hopefully...