JTower has successfully implemented 5G radio wave environment development using infrastructure sharing at the Shinjuku 3-chome East Building in Tokyo. In partnership with AGC Corporation and with technical cooperation from NTT Docomo, JTower has developed a glass antenna that turns a window into a base station for the 5G Sub6 band.
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First Commercial Implementation in Japan
This marks the first time in Japan that a "glass antenna that turns windows into a base station" has been connected to JTower's 5G-compatible shared equipment and operated in a commercial environment, JTower said on Tuesday.
According to the statement, the glass antenna is designed to improve the communication environment in areas where aesthetics are important, such as outdoor event spaces and roads near buildings. It will also enable more efficient expansion of the 5G area through the use of infrastructure sharing.
JTower says that the 5G-compatible shared devices were introduced in 2020 and have since expanded service nationwide. As of March 2024, 124 properties in Japan are equipped with these devices.
Efficient 5G Area Expansion
This development is expected to drive more efficient 5G expansion and increase the adoption of infrastructure sharing in urban areas, where network maintenance efficiency and environmental considerations are key. JTower says it continues to actively work on technology development to promote the use of infrastructure sharing.
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Established in June 2012, JTower is the first infrastructure sharing company in Japan. In addition to indoor infrastructure sharing solutions, the company has expanded its business into areas such as tower sharing in suburban and rural areas and multifunctional poles centered in urban areas.
