SoftBank Corp.
First Telecommunications Carrier in Japan
to Launch Outdoor Trial of 7GHz Band for 6G

About centimeter waves and 7GHz band

Centimeter waves are radio waves with wavelengths between 1–10 cm (frequencies of 3–30 GHz). Within this range, the 7–24 GHz band, known as FR3 by 3GPP^*2 standards, is emerging as a candidate for next-generation mobile networks. The specific band used in this trial—7,125 to 8,400 MHz—is scheduled to be discussed at the ITU-R's World Radiocommunication Conference 2027 (WRC-27) as a potential 6G frequency, and is therefore gaining global attention.

The 7GHz band offers significantly broader bandwidth than 5G's Sub-6 bands (frequencies below 6GHz). When combined with the already defined 6,425–7,125 MHz 5G band (Band n104), it enables nearly 2GHz of contiguous spectrum. Its propagation characteristics are similar to Sub-6, making it well-suited for high-speed communication and reliable area coverage.

As mobile data traffic continues to rise—driven in part by the spread of AI—dense urban environments face increasing challenges in signal penetration due to building congestion. The 7GHz band is viewed as a promising 6G solution that balances both capacity and coverage in such areas.

[Note]

1. *2
   Third Generation Partnership Project

Overview of the field trial

SoftBank obtained a trial license for the 7GHz band and began its outdoor testing in June 2025 in Tokyo's Ginza district. The trial compares the coverage and radio characteristics of the 7GHz band with commercial 5G Sub-6 (3.9GHz) by co-locating 7GHz pre-commercial base stations next to existing 5G base stations on building rooftops. The goal is to use Massive MIMO to establish contiguous coverage in the surrounding area.
Future testing will include both indoor and outdoor measurements within the trial zone, contributing to ongoing R&D for the commercialization of 6G.