Only one mobile operator in Japan will have access to the 1.7GHz frequency band in line with a newly adjusted policy, according to Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications.

 

While the originally proposed 1.7 GHz bandwidth was wide enough for two operators, the ministry has recently decided to cut the bandwidth by 25% to prevent interruption from adjacent frequencies. The reduced bandwidth therefore only allows for one operator to provide mobile services across the country. 

 

The Japanese government decided in the fall of 2004 to appropriate the frequency, currently shared by the public and private sectors for wireless communications, to accommodate the growing build-up of 3G services. The opening-up of the bandwidth is tentatively scheduled for as early as 2006. 

 

Major players such as NTT DoCoMo and Vodafone KK have been aggressively seeking the 1.7 GHz frequency, but not without competition. Companies wishing to launch mobile services, such as Softbank and eAcess, are also showing strong interest.