docomo – PressAP

JCN Newswire

DOCOMO Conducts World’s First Trial of Transmissive Metasurface on Window to Deliver Indoor Radio Waves to Outdoor Foot of Building

January 30, 2023

TOKYO, Jan 30, 2023 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today that it has succeeded in what it believes to be the world's first trial of redirecting millimeter-band (28 GHz) radio waves coming from inside a building to the foot of the building outdoors by bending the radio waves with a film-shaped transmissive metasurface(1) attached to a window surface. The trial was conducted from October to November 2022 at the DOCOMO R&D Center in Yokosuka, Japan, aiming at realization of advanced fifth-generation (5G Evolution) and sixth-generation (6G) mobile communication systems.High-frequency radio waves, which are expected to be used in 5G Evolution and 6G, have difficulty coming around behind obstacles and are easily attenuated as propagation distances increase. DOCOMO has also been studying the use of metasurface technology to enhance radio signal reception indoors using outdoor base station(2), and to improve indoor with many obstructions as a user moves(3).Radio waves in the high-frequency band have difficulty reaching places that are not in the line of sight of the transmitting base station installed on the rooftop of buildings, making it difficult to create reception areas at the foot of buildings. One of the solutions is to install antennas on a neighboring structural object, but there are cases where such installation is not possible due to landscape and other issues. This trial was conducted in order to expand the area coverage around the foot of a building.The transmissive metasurface for the 28 GHz band used in the trial is a metasurface designed and processed to bend millimeter wave bands passing through a glass window in a specific direction, in this trial, towards the bottom of a building's exterior(4). The film-shaped material was attached to the window glass on the interior side, making it easier to install, and its transparency did not spoil the landscape and existing design. In addition, the transmissive metasurface is designed not to affect other frequency bands such as LTE and Sub-6 bands.Millimeter waves from a base station installed indoor passed through transmissive metasurfaces on the window glass and throughput performance in the foot area of the building was measured. We confirmed that the throughput performance in the foot area was greatly improved by bending the millimeter waves with the transmissive metasurfaces.DOCOMO is also researching and developing various technologies to improve indoor and outdoor coverage in the high frequency bands. For example, it may be possible to direct signals from Multi-Sector Antenna Indoor Base Station, as announced by DOCOMO on January 30(5), to the transmissive metasurface attached to a glass window to improve both indoor and outdoor area coverage. Also, in the future, when constructing a massive multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) system that uses much larger number of antennas, it may be possible to achieve an equivalently large-scale configuration with a relatively small number of antennas at a low cost by applying metasurface technology(6).Going forward, DOCOMO will continue to research and develop efficient and flexible construction of reception areas and radio configurations for 5G Evolution and 6G.The transmissive metasurface used in the trial will be exhibited at "docomo Open House '23," which will be held online from Thursday, February 2.(1) Metasurfaces are a type of artificial medium (metamaterial) that achieve arbitrary permittivity and permeability by periodically arranging structures that are small in relation to wavelength, and are artificial surfaces in which the periodic arrangement of structures is two-dimensional.(2) "DOCOMO and AGC Use Metasurface Lens to Enhance Radio Signal Reception Indoors" (January 26, 2021)www.docomo.ne.jp/english/info/media_center/pr/2021/0126_00.html(3) "NTT and NTT DOCOMO Trial First Use of User-tracking Metasurface Reflector for Extreme Mobile Coverage in Current 5G and Coming 6G Era" (November 12, 2021)www.docomo.ne.jp/english/info/media_center/pr/2021/1112_00.html(4) The transmissive metasurfaces were designed and provided based on the cooperation of AGC Inc.(5) "Small, Efficient 5G Multisector Antenna Indoor Base Station Achieves World's First Demonstration using 28GHz" (January 30, 2023)www.docomo.ne.jp/english/info/media_center/pr/2023/0130_01.html(6) "5G Evolution and 6G (5.0 version)," NTT DOCOMO (November 2022)bit.ly/3HDP8E6 (Japanese only)About NTT DOCOMONTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 85 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations.https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/. Copyright 2023 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

JCN Newswire

DOCOMO and YKK AP to Test Signal-permeable Windows Made with Aerogel for Easy Penetration by Radio Waves

January 30, 2023

TOKYO, Jan 30, 2023 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today that in collaboration with YKK AP Inc. it has launched a demonstration test to verify the radio-wave penetration characteristics of signal-permeable windows made with a light, porous material called aerogel, aiming to improve indoor reception of external radio waves while maintaining the insulation benefits of windows.High-performance materials, multilayered window glass and Low-E glass are being used more widely to improve the insulation of homes and offices for energy efficiency. As a consequence, however, it is becoming more difficult for high-frequency radio waves used by cellphones and other applications to reach indoor spaces. In response, DOCOMO and YKK AP are developing windows that allow radio waves to pass through easily while still maintaining high-performance thermal insulation. The plan is eventually to install such windows in the ceilings and walls of existing as well as new homes and offices.DOCOMO and YKK AP will now test a prototype window made with aerogel, a high-performance thermal-insulation gel-like material, to confirm its radio-wave penetration characteristics. Aerogel is known to have a dielectric constant close to that of air and allows radio waves to penetrate easily. The demonstration will enable DOCOMO to test materials, shapes and window structures that best allow radio waves to pass through.Going forward, DOCOMO will continue to work toward 5G Evolution & 6G by researching and developing technologies including windows easily penetrated by high-frequency millimeter and terahertz radio waves for high-quality indoor connectivity.The initiative will be introduced during "docomo Open House '23," which will be held online from Thursday, February 2 through the rest of the month. Please visit:www.docomo.ne.jp/english/corporate/technology/rd/openhouse/openhouse2023/About NTT DOCOMONTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 85 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations. www.docomo.ne.jp/english/. Copyright 2023 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

JCN Newswire

DOCOMO to Exhibit at World’s Largest Mobile Exhibition: MWC Barcelona 2023

January 20, 2023

TOKYO, Jan 20, 2023 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today that it will organize a full-scale booth at MWC Barcelona 2023, the world's largest mobile-related exhibition, in Barcelona, Spain from February 27 to March 2.The DOCOMO booth, which will showcase exhibitions and presentations focused on the main themes of 6G, open radio access networks (Open RAN) and extended reality (XR), will also promote international standardization and global business for next-generation communication technologies. Due to the global pandemic, this will be DOCOMO's the first onsite appearance at MWC Barcelona since 2019.(1)In the 6G section, DOCOMO will present the coming 6G world and advanced wireless technologies that the company is currently developing. This will include a demonstration of the Human Augmentation Platform to communicate haptic sensations between people connected to a 6G network to enable, for example, a musical student to mimic the exact finger motions of a teacher.In the Open RAN section, DOCOMO will present experiential content to help visitors understand the concept and structure of Open RAN, as well as progress being achieved to enable multi-vendor telecommunication equipment(2) to be combined in Open RAN, as well as related collaborations with international carriers.In the XR section, visitors will experience the metaverse filled with music, anime and movies and also a virtual-live system, both provided by NTT QONOQ, INC., a company launched by DOCOMO's parent NTT group last October to promote XR business.Through this exhibition, DOCOMO looks forward to globally communicating its advanced technologies and businesses under the company's brand slogan "changing worlds with you."For more about DOCOMO's exhibits and the overall exhibition, please refer to the appendix.(1) DOCOMO organized an exhibition in Japan in 2021 and then one online in 2022.(2) "Creation of 5G Open RAN Ecosystem to Accelerate Adoption of Open RAN by Operators Globally"www.docomo.ne.jp/english/info/media_center/pr/2021/0208_00.htmlFor more information, visit www.docomo.ne.jp/english/info/media_center/pr/2023/0120_00.html. Copyright 2023 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

JCN Newswire

NEC provides billing gateway for DOCOMO’s standalone 5G system

January 18, 2023

TOKYO, Jan 18, 2023 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NEC Corporation (NEC) has provided NTT DOCOMO, INC. (DOCOMO) with a Charging Gateway Function (CGF) for high-performance processing of billing information, which is becoming increasingly complex due to the growing sophistication of service menus.Image of the CGF provided to DOCOMOThe CGF began operating in December 2022 as a gateway-packaged product that connects DOCOMO's existing standalone 5G mobile core network (SA 5GC)(1), which was provided by NEC, to its business support system (BSS) for customer administration and billing. By organizing the wide variety of billing information sent from 5GC and linking to the BSS, the CGF enables efficient billing processing, while supporting the rapid launch, provision and monetization of new services.Service menus utilizing 5G are becoming more diverse, and the development of new services beyond packet communications, SMS and voice communications is expected to continue advancing in the future. For this reason, telecommunications carriers are demanding packaged products that can flexibly support new services. In the BSS area, there is a demand to introduce Fit to Standard packaged products that can flexibly handle new services and are aligned with IT strategies. However, when using a packaged product for a gateway, it is necessary to develop connections for the parts of the system where information such as BSS is linked. Therefore, building a new gateway requires excellent packaged products and know-how in the development of connection systems. Based on this background, as an advanced initiative in the industry, NEC has introduced a CGF packaged product at the request of DOCOMO.Features of this initiative include:1. Efficient billing processing with CGF packaged productsDOCOMO has introduced a CGF solution provided by Netcracker Technology (Netcracker), an NEC subsidiary, using the CGF product from DigitalRoute(2). Netcracker built the robust solution using DigitalRoute's product for high traffic processing to achieve efficient billing. DigitalRoute's CGF packaged products have been deployed at more than 400 businesses around the world and comply with international standards (3GPP). The CGF can organize large amounts of billing information generated for each service, such as packet communications and voice calls, and link it to the BSS for efficient billing processing. Netcracker has extensive global experience implementing solutions based on the DigitalRoute product suite and was instrumental in its implementation at NTT DOCOMO, working closely with NEC as the system integrator and DigitalRoute as the product vendor.2. Flexible support for new services and scalability through online processing of billing informationThis CGF has a flow control function that defines the processing flow of billing information for each service, providing both flexible support for new services and scalability that enables online processing of billing information. As a result, even if the service menu diversifies, it will be possible to flexibly respond without having to undergo new development each time, thereby contributing to the rapid monetization of businesses.3. Making use of NEC's track record in system development for telecommunications carriers to achieve connectivity while minimizing the development of external systemsNEC has a wealth of experience in developing high-quality systems that support the competitiveness of telecommunications carriers' services, including the development of open source systems that support DOCOMO's payment services. By leveraging this track record and localizing the impact on external systems connected to this CGF, a high-quality system has been achieved while minimizing development.NEC will continue to leverage this track record to provide 5G networking, BSS, and operation support systems (OSS) to telecommunications carriers as comprehensive high-quality solutions, helping them to quickly launch new services, streamline operations, and improve revenue."We are pleased to have worked with NEC as a partner in the introduction of standard products compatible with 5G SA. DOCOMO will continue to swiftly and flexibly provide customers with diversified services and billing systems for next-generation networks, including 5G," said Shin Fujii, Senior Manager, NTT DOCOMO."NEC is proud to have provided DOCOMO with this total 5GC system featuring CGF. We have a long history of collaboration with DOCOMO spanning a wide variety of solutions, and we look forward to continuing the provision of high-quality, highly reliable end-to-end networking solutions in the future," said Michio Kiuchi, Senior Vice President, NEC Corporation."Netcracker is honored to continue working with DOCOMO, in partnership with NEC and DigitalRoute, to deliver a truly differentiated solution that will provide efficiencies in the billing process resulting in faster time to market and rapid monetization of new services," said Bob Titus, CTO at Netcracker. "We look forward to future success with DOCOMO.""We are incredibly thrilled to announce that our strategic partnership with NEC has been reinforced through this project for DOCOMO, the No.1 CSP in Japan," said Per-Erik Johansson, SVP, Head of Telecom Sales & Alliances at DigitalRoute. "Our best in class product solutions have been developed through their deployment by many global CSPs. Together with NEC, we are not only enabling DOCOMO's next-generation monetization, we are also driving a competitive edge by being able to expand in new enterprise markets."(1) Standalone 5GC (SA 5GC): A communication method to meet the needs of the various networks that are required in the 5G era, such as enhanced Mobile BroadBand (eMBB) (high speed, large capacity), massive-Machine Type Communications (mMTC) (high density connections) and Ultra-Reliable and Low Latency Communications (URLLC) (Ultra-high reliability and low latency).(2) Press release (announced on February 8, 2021):NEC, Netcracker and DigitalRoute Partner to Accelerate 5G Monetization- Partnership enables CSPs to quickly deploy a 5G mobile core network in the cloud and monetize any 5G business modelwww.nec.com/en/press/202102/global_20210208_02.htmlAbout NEC CorporationNEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of "Orchestrating a brighter world." NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at www.nec.com. Copyright 2023 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

JCN Newswire

DOCOMO to Introduce Latest R&D and Technologies During “docomo Open House’23” Online Event

December 5, 2022

TOKYO, Dec 5, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today that "docomo Open House'23 -- Creating a Future with You," an online event to be held next February 2 to 28, will present 21 exhibits showcasing the company's latest initiatives and offerings. The Open House will be accessible to the general public without registration and the event's preview website is online from 3:00 p.m. today to allow people to view basic information about the exhibits and overall event.The Open House will introduce the latest initiatives of the DOCOMO group in six fields: 5G Evolution & 6G, networking, healthcare, urban design, communication and mobility as a service (MaaS). The 5G Evolution & 6G displays will include the latest technologies for human-augmentation platform, including ultra-low-latency networks, and showcase technologies for all-new devices to realize the Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN) concept. In addition, examples of how the company is cooperating with partners to create new businesses and other innovations also will be displayed.Under the slogan "It's no longer fantasy," exhibits will be presented in a "Vision Visualize" format to comprehensively cover each theme's overview in order to help visitors conceptualize the highly advanced technologies and projects that DOCOMO will introduce in the foreseeable future.In to the coming 6G era, DOCOMO is looking forward to delivering many surprises and exciting new developments by accelerating its research and development of innovative new businesses as well as creating new value in collaboration with a growing range of partners.About NTT DOCOMONTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 85 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations. www.docomo.ne.jp/english/. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

JCN Newswire

NTT DOCOMO and SK Telecom to Collaborate on Technological Advancement of Metaverse, Digital Media and 5G/6G

November 21, 2022

TOKYO, Nov 21, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today that it has agreed with leading Korean telecommunications operator SK Telecom (SKT) to collaborate on the competitive enhancement of their respective smart-life businesses and communications-infrastructure technologies worldwide.In the smart-life field, DOCOMO and SKT will discuss joint production of original content for their respective video distribution platforms and leverage their video-business synergies for expanded presence on the global stage.In metaverse-related services, they will consider opportunities to jointly produce virtual content, including 3D models, volumetric videos and virtual cities, as well as explore possibilities for connecting their respective platforms over the long term.In the field of telecommunications-infrastructure technologies, the two companies will pursue cooperation aimed at advancing 5G commercial services, which both firms have already started offering. Specific areas of technical consideration will include 5G Stand Alone, millimeter-wave utilization, energy-efficient networks, and Open RAN/vRAN.In addition, they will align their concepts and timelines for the early deployment of 6G through joint research and development as well as standardization, with joint testing to begin possibly next year. Such efforts are expected to support the Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN) concept being promoted by NTT, DOCOMO's parent. Alignment will include collaboration with the IOWN Global Forum, which is striving to propel communication and network-infrastructure technologies capable of meeting future technological challenges and societal needs.SK Telecom President & CEO Ryu Young-sang said: "The MOU has a significant meaning as it is a cooperation between the representative mobile operators of Korea and Japan. By working together with NTT DOCOMO in the area of future ICT, we will generate tangible results that drive global ICT innovation."NTT DOCOMO President & CEO Motoyuki Ii said: "By combining our technological capabilities and the know-how we have cultivated across years of experience, we hope to create new services that will allow customers around the world to experience new forms of excitement. We look forward to working with SK Telecom to develop the businesses of both companies."As world-leading telecommunications carriers with a shared vision, DOCOMO and SKT look forward to collaborating on global technologies and services that will mutually strengthen the competitiveness of their global businesses.About NTT DOCOMONTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 85 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations. www.docomo.ne.jp/english/. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

JCN Newswire

NTT DOCOMO and Accenture Collaborate to Accelerate Adoption of Web3

November 8, 2022

TOKYO, Nov 8, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NTT DOCOMO and Accenture (NYSE: ACN) are collaborating to accelerate the adoption and application of Web3 for addressing social issues.Web3 is a new iteration of the web driven by blockchain technology. It has the potential to form a new digital economy with a greater social impact than conventional economies, providing clearly defined benefits and secure environments for success.Together, NTT DOCOMO and Accenture will:- Promote ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) Issues. Diverse and long-term stakeholder collaboration is necessary to help solve many societal issues, including those related to regional development. The two companies will create case studies for addressing ESG issues -- including the United Nation's Sustainable Development Goals.- Establish a secure technology platform for Web3. Web3 is a way of utilizing technologies to enable new products, services, and community building. The companies will work together to develop and grow a secure technology platform that creates an environment where people can use these new technologies easily and safely. The work together will identify and resolve the challenges facing these emerging technologies.- Develop talent. To address the growing demand for Web3 talent, the companies will provide training courses for those interested in working in the Web3 field, including engineers and business leaders. This approach will create a community for professionals and organizations alike to learn and gain practical experience in Web3.NTT DOCOMO will bring its expertise in telecommunications networks and digital services, as well as its experience working on society-wide issues. Accenture will help build an operational foundation for the initiatives with a view to future global expansion, leveraging the knowledge gained through its work on regional development efforts, including that New windowwith Aizu Wakamatsu City in Fukushima.Web3 is already being used in Japan to provide valuable solutions for society. For instance, it's being used to help companies and government streamline the carbon credit markets as a way to address climate change.The ultimate goal of the collaboration between NTT DOCOMO and Accenture is to facilitate the adoption of Web3 globally -- enabling everyone to enjoy its advantages and benefits -- while positioning Japan as a leading Web3 market.Motoyuki Ii, president & CEO, NTT DOCOMO said, "Web3 is the most impactful technological development since the Internet. DOCOMO, in collaboration with Accenture, will revolutionize social infrastructure by utilizing blockchain and building a safe and secure Web3 environment. We will build an environment where the power of creators and developers can come together. We are glad to be promoting the Japan-developed Web3, and we welcome individuals and companies to join us in the global development of Web3 services."Atsushi Egawa, a senior managing director at Accenture who leads its business in Japan, said, "Our collaboration with NTT DOCOMO is designed to create an industry platform leveraging blockchain and other digital technologies. At Accenture, we use digital technologies to help our clients achieve 360 degrees value - which includes issues related to sustainability, inclusion and diversity, and delivering exceptional experiences. We will help accelerate adoption of Web3 by leveraging the expertise we have gained in regional development through our collaborations with stakeholders from industry, government and academia."About NTT DOCOMONTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 84 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations. https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/.About AccentureAccenture is a global professional services company with leading capabilities in digital, cloud and security. Combining unmatched experience and specialized skills across more than 40 industries, we offer Strategy and Consulting, Technology and Operations services and Accenture Song - all powered by the world's largest network of Advanced Technology and Intelligent Operations centers. Our 721,000 people deliver on the promise of technology and human ingenuity every day, serving clients in more than 120 countries. We embrace the power of change to create value and shared success for our clients, people, shareholders, partners and communities. Visit us at www.accenture.com. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

JCN Newswire

Vodafone and NTT DOCOMO sign MoU to cooperate to drive greater system integration and service efficiency in Open RAN

October 26, 2022

TOKYO, Oct 26, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Vodafone and NTT DOCOMO, INC. (DOCOMO) agreed to cooperate to bring the benefits of open radio access networks (Open RAN) to a wider operator and vendor community.In a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed today, Vodafone and DOCOMO agreed to cooperate towards harmonizing mobile operator system integration and test processes including testing criteria and experiences to create common test scripts, a series of software instructions needed to conduct a test. This uniform approach to testing will mean that vendors can avoid repetition when dealing with multiple operators, saving them time, capital outlays, and resources, also making sure the industry delivers, no matter the region, secure by design, high quality products as defined by the industry bodies - 3GPP and the ORAN Alliance. The cooperation will be performed by exchanging the respective expertise and technologies between the parties.The cooperation will drive greater interoperability between different vendor systems worldwide giving customers a seamless service across 4G and 5G Open RAN networks no matter where they live, work, or travel. Smaller suppliers and startups will particularly benefit by avoiding costly duplicate testing with multiple operators, strengthening diversity in the global supply chain.The two companies also aim to maximize the benefits of the Service Management Orchestrator - a component of the Open RAN Network Operation Support System - and the RAN Intelligent Controller platform (SMO/RIC). They intend to identify the key features of SMO/RIC, determine their likely evolution and define the underlying software architecture.In addition, Vodafone and DOCOMO plan to cooperate to lower total cost of ownership (TCO) for operators by enhancing the efficiency of RAN technologies, integration processes, artificial intelligence/machine learning and automation techniques, with a view to publishing a whitepaper.Johan Wibergh, Chief Technology Officer of Vodafone, said: "The collective R&D power of Vodafone and DOCOMO will lower the entry barrier for many more companies across Europe and Asia wishing to build Open RAN networks. Rather than fragmenting the industry, Open RAN is bringing us together, across continents, to drive diversification of network equipment vendors and ensure greater systems integration."Naoki Tani, Chief Technology Officer of NTT DOCOMO, said: "We look forward to combining Vodafone's R&D and thought leadership in Open RAN system integration and DOCOMO's experience in deploying a multi-vendor 5G Open RAN commercial service in Japan. Our collaboration will help to accelerate the broad commercial adoption of Open RAN and realize a vibrant RAN ecosystem for 5G and beyond."The two companies have also agreed to look to remotely connect their lab capabilities, which will complement their existing Open RAN R&D centers in the UK (Vodafone, Newbury) and Japan (DOCOMO's Shared Open Lab, Yokosuka). These labs are based on a distributed testing operating model that is distinct from the current single vendor-centric approach in use today.Instead of each vendor setting up their own centralized lab for all parts of a mobile base station, Open RAN requires a coordinated network of labs - each being responsible for part of the radio infrastructure, such as the radio unit or the software. Vodafone's calculations published earlier this year show that cost savings of up to 40% can be achieved for the industry when moving to a distributed system integration lab network.Going forward, Vodafone and DOCOMO will explore other areas of potential collaboration to further build foundations for a thriving ecosystem and an improved customer experience.About VodafoneUnique in its scale as the largest pan-European and African technology communications company, Vodafone transforms the way people live and work through its innovation, technology, connectivity, platforms, products and services.Vodafone operates mobile and fixed networks in 21 countries, and partners with mobile networks in 47 more. As of 30 June 2022, we had over 300m mobile customers, more than 28m fixed broadband customers and 22m TV customers. Vodafone is a world leader in the Internet of Things (IoT), connecting around 160m devices and platforms.We have revolutionised fintech in Africa through M-Pesa, which celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2022. It is the region's largest fintech platform, providing access to financial services for more than 50m people in a secure, affordable and convenient way.About NTT DOCOMONTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 84 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G, and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations.https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

JCN Newswire

NTT DOCOMO to Add Fourth Virtualized Base Station to Open RAN Verification Environment

September 29, 2022

TOKYO, Sep 29, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. announced today that it will be adding a fourth type of flexible and highly scalable virtualized base station to its verification environment for open radio access networks (Open RAN) that allow equipment and components of various vendors to integrate via standardized specifications.The new virtualized base station will combine NEC Corporation's open virtualized RAN software, Red Hat Openshift, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc.'s inline accelerator cards and Hewlett Packard Enterprise's servers. This will be DOCOMO's first time to use the Qualcomm X100 5G RAN Accelerator Card and the HPE ProLiant DL110 Telco server, the latter optimized specifically for Open RAN workloads to improve system performance and power efficiency.Since February, DOCOMO has been providing global carriers with access to its Shared Open Lab environment to allow them to mix and match the equipment and components of various vendors in order to verify performance with virtualized base stations. In addition to three types of virtualized base station equipment/system configurations that carriers have been accessing so far, the new configuration will become available for verification in the Shared Open Lab starting in 2023."HPE is pleased to be collaborating with NTT DOCOMO and our other strategic partners to further the advancement of Open RAN and address the demands of 5G," said Phil Cutrone, SVP and GM of OEM and Compute, Hewlett Packard Enterprise. "With operators looking to address TCO and system integration risks in order to adopt vRAN, this Open RAN solution in close collaboration with NEC, Qualcomm Technologies, and Red Hat enables operators like NTT DOCOMO to achieve their objectives as they expand vRAN deployments in their 5G networks.""NEC is honored to work with our close partner, NTT DOCOMO, and other industry leaders on this new implementation," said Patrick Lopez, NEC's VP of 5G Products. "As Open RAN pioneers and leaders, demonstrating how disaggregated, multi-vendor components can operate together within open ecosystems is a key part of our collective approach. This new open virtualized RAN software implementation will open the door to next-generation performance and power savings.""Red Hat is committed to collaborating with an open ecosystem of industry leaders and partners to further enable cloud-native, open source innovation and provide service providers with a stable foundation for connectivity from the core to the edge," said Honore LaBourdette, vice president, Telco, Media and Entertainment, Red Hat. "Red Hat OpenShift is the industry's leading enterprise Kubernetes platform, offering the flexibility and scalability needed to support network functionality at scale. We are pleased to collaborate with NTT DOCOMO and other industry leaders to further accelerate Open RAN.""Building on our shared vision to drive the development of the modern 5G network, we're very pleased to expand our longtime relationship with an industry leader like NTT DOCOMO to verify and test our Qualcomm X100 5G RAN Accelerator Card alongside solutions from NEC Corporation, Red Hat, and HPE," said Durga Malladi, senior vice president and general manager, cellular modems and infrastructure, Qualcomm Technologies, Inc. "Equipping our industry-leading customers with cutting-edge technology to deliver superior user experiences is at the core of Qualcomm Technologies and this collaboration is a step forward for the entire ecosystem as it will help accelerate global adoption of virtualized and Open RAN."As the increasing global availability of 5G continues to raise interest in Open RAN, DOCOMO has been a leader in helping telecoms worldwide to prepare to introduce this highly versatile new technology. In February 2021, DOCOMO was joined by 12 global equipment vendors in establishing the 5G Open RAN Ecosystem (OREC) to promote Open RAN, which supported the development of the virtualized base station being announced today.DOCOMO and its OREC partners plan to continue adding new equipment/system combinations before and after commercializing virtualized base stations, which is expected within the current fiscal year ending in March 2023.Through the promotion of Open RAN, DOCOMO looks forward to continuing to enhance the efficiency and flexibility mobile communication networks around the world.About NTT DOCOMONTT DOCOMO, Japan's leading mobile operator with over 84 million subscriptions, is one of the world's foremost contributors to 3G, 4G and 5G mobile network technologies. Beyond core communications services, DOCOMO is challenging new frontiers in collaboration with a growing number of entities ("+d" partners), creating exciting and convenient value-added services that change the way people live and work. Under a medium-term plan toward 2020 and beyond, DOCOMO is pioneering a leading-edge 5G network to facilitate innovative services that will amaze and inspire customers beyond their expectations.https://www.docomo.ne.jp/english/. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

JCN Newswire

DOCOMO and CyberAgent to Establish New Advertising Company: Prism Partner Inc.

June 30, 2022

TOKYO, Jun 30, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - NTT DOCOMO, INC. and CyberAgent, Inc. have announced that they have agreed to establish a new company, Prism Partner Inc., to utilize DOCOMO and CyberAgent's business resources for advertising.1. BackgroundIn 2021, online ad spending in Japan totaled nearly 2.71 trillion yen, up 21.4% from the previous year and the first time that online ad spending exceeded that in the four traditional media of television, radio, newspapers, and magazines.*1 Furthermore, Japan's market for digital sales promotions is forecast to grow to 250 billion yen by 2024. *2 In response, DOCOMO, with a membership base of over 89 million people, and CyberAgent, with a proven digital advertising track record in Japan, have decided to support advertisers by providing them with advertising products incorporating the two companies' knowledge and assets.2. New company's businessProvide solutions covering everything from digital promotions to CRMPrism Partner will sell DOCOMO's targeted ad products based on DOCOMO's service usage information and other member data as well as other online and offline data.*3 Prism Partner will support development and sell DOCOMO's digital promotions and advertising products that continuously use d POINTs to encourage purchases and perform purchase-effect analyses. Through the integration of CRM tools, such as DOCOMO's Super Sales Program*4 marketing platform and ad-delivery data, Prism Partner will go beyond simply serving customer ads by providing operational support for action that increases loyalty and trust for products and brands.Provide new targeted-ad avenues for developers of games and other appsFor app developers who utilize DOCOMO membership information and app-usage data*5, Prism Partner will support development and sales of DOCOMO's advertising products. DOCOMO data will be integrated with Dynalyst, CyberAgent's dynamic retargeting ads designed specifically for smartphone apps,*6 enabling customers to benefit from advanced ad technology and customization.3. Each company's rolesDOCOMODeliver targeted ads effectively by using purchase behavior data based on d POINTs and d-BaraiTM usage histories from some 89 million d POINTs members and other media touchpoints (used anonymously and within the scope of the Privacy Policy) to estimate customers' online and offline interests.Contribute to manufacturers' and retailers' sales promotions by revitalizing the d POINTs and d-Barai ecosystem and encourage customer purchases.Help advertisers expand their marketing activities by analyzing ad targets and customer preferences with AI,*7 using location information obtained with customer consent,*8 DOCOMO data on how services are being used by customers, and d POINTs and d-Barai purchase information.CyberAgentLeverage Japan's top-level digital-advertising sales, operational and advertising development capabilities to provide advertisers with comprehensive assistance, from ad-serving system development to ad-operating system construction and sales.Apply knowledge from developing Japan's top-class DSP and from the AI Lab, an AI R&D organization involved in digital marketing, to develop ad-serving systems for maximized and measurable ad impact.Leverage partnerships with retailers by supporting digital transformation to formulate sales-promotion plans and measure sales-promotion impact, both online and offline.4. OutlookDOCOMO and CyberAgent, working through their new company Prism Partner, will develop advertising products and drive sales to advertisers while also utilizing DOCOMO's proprietary data, points, media, and other marketing assets, as well as CyberAgent's AI and digital marketing knowledge, ultimately to identify and maximize the impact of advertisements integrated both online and offline.(1) Source: Dentsu Inc. research report (in Japanese): "2021 Ad Spending in Japan"www.dentsu.co.jp/news/release/2022/0224-010496.html(2) Source: CyberAgent, Inc. research report (in Japanese):"Execution of Market Size Research on Digital Advertising to Draw Customers to Stores (O2O Ads)" www.cyberagent.co.jp/news/detail/id=23249(3)(5)(7)(8) Conducted within the scope of the DOCOMO Privacy Policy and d Menu "Site Terms of Use"DOCOMO Privacy Policy (in Japanese): www.nttdocomo.co.jp/utility/privacy/Site Terms of Use (in Japanese): https://smt.docomo.ne.jp/portal/src/terms_ad3.htmlWith the Personal Data Dashboard, customers can always select to a certain extent to accept or reject DOCOMO's use of location information and usage information, such as the user's IP address. For more about the Personal Data Dashboard: https://datadashboard.front.smt.docomo.ne.jp/For more about DOCOMO Ads (digital ads) provided by DOCOMO: https://smt.docomo.ne.jp/portal/ad/about/docomoad.html (in Japanese)Super Sales Program, which sends messages and information on deals from accepting (4) merchants to customers through the d POINTs and d-Barai apps when d POINTs or d-Barai are used at stores, is a marketing platform for effective sales promotions: https://ssw.web.docomo.ne.jp/marketing/super_sales_program/ (in Japanese)(6) Dynamic retargeting ads automatically generate banner ads that display information tailored to each customer's tendencies and interests. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)