NTT Docomo achieves the highest 5G download speed in Japão with 159.1 Mbps, but faces critical challenge in consistent quality. Segundo survey by Opensignal, the operator recorded only 80.7% in connection reliability, behind au (88.3%) and SoftBank (86.9%). The result exposes a gap between expanded infrastructure and actual performance delivered to users on fifth-generation networks.
Maximum Velocidade does not guarantee service stability
Docomo dominates in geographic coverage and download speed, metrics that reflect investments in infrastructure. The operator also leads in coverage experience in densely populated areas. Recentemente began implementing equipment with Massive MIMO antennas from Ericsson in the 4.5 GHz band to reduce urban congestion.
Contudo, consistent quality measures something different: how often users are able to complete tasks without interruption, even in regions with an available 5G signal. Altas speeds do not compensate for delays in response times or momentary outages. Docomo also ranked third in reliability experience, behind SoftBank and au, indicating structural problems in connection stability during application use.
Au wins with focus on reliability and consistency
au won 10 awards from Opensignal and shared distinctions in 1 category, becoming the highest ranked domestic operator. Suas wins include consistent quality, reliable experience and overall first place in 5G for video, gaming and voice applications. In the reliability metric, au scored 967 out of 1,000 points, marking its fourth consecutive victory in this indicator.
Shinji Uchida, Country Manager of Opensignal on Japão, highlighted the importance of reliability: “We believe that improving these metrics enhances the user experience, and we understand that each operator is striving to improve these metrics to improve network quality.” SoftBank won 45 awards across 8 regions and 46 shared awards, leading in the number of distinctions per region and receiving high scores in communication speed.
Infrastructure Limitações explain lower performance
Docomo’s low ranking in consistent quality results from multiple factors combined. The operator has a limited number of 5G base stations compared to competitors, making it difficult to effectively distribute traffic even within areas with coverage. Essa shortages cause performance drops and slower response times.
- Frequency restricted Faixa reduces data processing capacity
- Estações base still in the implementation phase in several regions of the country
- Distribuição uneven traffic in areas with available 5G coverage
- High response Tempos despite expanded geographic coverage
- Diferença structural between theoretical maximum speed and real operational quality
Uchida acknowledged the complexity of the challenge: “This is not due to a single reason, but rather a combination of factors that have led to the current situation. Acredito that Docomo is aware of this situation and working to improve the factors that contribute to it.”
SoftBank expands coverage with focus on utilization rate
SoftBank presents download speeds 17% higher than previous research, expanding its leadership in this category. The operator was the only winner in the Japão for “5G usage rate”, reaching 27.4%, an indicator that measures the percentage of time that users are connected to the fifth generation network. Atualmente works with Nokia to expand its 5G SA (standalone) coverage area and modernize the network in Japão’s western region.
Desempenho from Docomo remains robust in global context
Apesar’s unfavorable position among domestic competitors, Docomo’s indicators remain high in international comparison. The quality of communication in Japão is at a higher level when evaluated globally. Docomo’s numbers, even in last place domestically, are extremely high when compared to results from international operators. The Japanese market is particularly competitive, and improvements in consistent quality would position the Docomo with an even greater strategic advantage in the domestic and international market.