SoftBank announced that it will sequentially launch a service starting September 29th, becoming the first domestic MNO to display a dedicated network logo indicating 5G SA connection status. At launch, compatible devices include 5G SA-enabled iPhones and iPads. Support for Android devices is planned for the future.
While conventional 5G, known as 5G NSA (Non-Standalone), utilizes 4G for a portion of its core network, 5G SA (Standalone) employs an entirely 5G configuration for both its core network and base stations. This allows 5G SA to maximize the inherent functions and performance of 5G, and significantly increases the likelihood of experiencing comfortable communication without being affected by congestion on the 4G side.
SoftBank's 5G SA is available when using a compatible SIM and a compatible device, provided it's within a 5G SA-compatible area. Additionally, with a 5G SA-compatible SIM and rate plans such as "Paytoku 2 / Teigaku Museigen," "Paytoku Museigen / Paytoku 50 / Paytoku 30 / Merihari Museigen+," the "Fast Access" option is also supported. Fast Access allocates more network resources during 5G SA communication, which SoftBank states enables faster data communication even in congested areas.
