APAC

Opensignal data shows users have faster 5G speeds and better 5G Video Experience when connected to band n41 (2.6GHz). This spectrum band is becoming usable by more users because of the merger between DTAC and TrueMove H and as a result, is helping to boost their experience.

In this latest Opensignal analysis on Japan, we have analyzed the 5G mobile experience in busy high-traffic areas of Japan —  across its international airports and on Tokyo’s Yamanote line, which connects some of the busiest train stations in the world. Our users on the Yamanote line and in these major airports were able to connect to 5G services for a higher amount of time than Tokyo or Yokohama city averages. However, differences in 5G Download Speeds were not as significant when we compared these high-traffic areas with city or Japan-wide averages.

In this new analysis, Opensignal has observed substantially lower signal strength experienced by our users in Japan when connected to 5G, compared with other East Asian markets — Hong Kong, South Korea and Taiwan. As we have seen in Europe and the U.S. lower signal power levels often mean a worse 5G experience for users.

The 5G mobile experience continues to change as more smartphone users embrace 5G and operators expand their 5G networks. The Asia Pacific region (APAC) has some of the highest quality 5G experiences that Opensignal users have seen to date. However, there are large differences between markets, depending on how long 5G has been available and the type of wireless spectrum that operators have been able to use for 5G.

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed people’s habits at an unprecedented scale. People have become more dependent on internet connectivity to stay in touch while spending much more time at home than previously. Attending group video calls has become an essential part of everyone’s reality — whether it’s connecting with colleagues on a video conference or chatting with family and friends. Group video communication has never been more important.