Acceleration of 5G Deployment

In Japan, the rollout of 5G networks is progressing, improving communication speeds and connection stability. This is enabling the realization of new technologies such as IoT, autonomous driving, and telemedicine, accelerating innovation in both industries and daily life.

What is the Japanese Public’s Reaction?

① Expectation

"I'm excited about faster communication speeds and the convenience it will bring to everyday life."

Many people are looking forward to improvements in smartphone speeds and connectivity due to 5G, especially with enhanced experiences in video viewing and gaming.

② Concerns about Privacy and Security

"With the widespread adoption of 5G, I'm worried about the leakage of personal information and cyberattacks."

With the advancement of communication infrastructure, there are growing concerns about data security and privacy protection.

③ Concerns About Rural Area Adoption

"5G service is still delayed in rural areas."

Compared to urban areas, the coverage of 5G networks in rural areas is narrower, and some residents are concerned about the widening gap in service availability.

Changes in People’s Usage

① Increased Frequency of Video Content Viewing

Thanks to the high-speed communication of 5G, uninterrupted high-quality video streaming is now possible, leading to an increase in the use of platforms like YouTube, Netflix, and TikTok. With the availability of 4K and 8K high-definition content, viewing times are generally increasing.

② Use of Cloud Services and Data Sharing

By utilizing 5G’s high-speed communication, exchanging large files and real-time data synchronization on the cloud has become even more convenient. Remote work and online classes, especially in business and education, are accelerating the adoption of cloud services.

③ Stronger Integration with IoT Devices

With 5G’s low latency and high-speed communication, IoT devices in homes and offices are connecting more smoothly, making the practical use of smart appliances and autonomous vehicles a reality. This is promoting greater efficiency in daily life and the realization of new lifestyles.


Concerns Felt by the Japanese Public

① Personal Information (Personal Data)

Quantitative Data:

  • Location Data Collection: The high-speed communication of 5G accelerates data collection from IoT devices and smartphones. For example, one survey reported that about 80% of smartphone users receive ads or services based on their location data (Source: Statista, 2020). 5G is expected to enhance the real-time and high-precision tracking of location data.
  • Risk of Data Leaks: A survey conducted in 2020 found that 53% of companies recognized an increased risk of data leaks from connected devices (Source: Gartner, 2020). As 5G becomes more widespread, the risk of personal information being targeted by cyberattacks is expected to grow.

② Corporate Data (Confidential Business Information)

Quantitative Data:

  • Increase in Cyberattacks: In 2020, cyberattacks globally increased by 38% year-over-year (Source: Cybersecurity Ventures, 2020). The introduction of 5G will expand the range of connected IoT and industrial devices, increasing the likelihood of corporate confidential data and customer information becoming targets.
  • Corporate Security Budgets: According to a 2020 survey, about 60% of companies plan to increase their annual cybersecurity budgets (Source: PwC, 2020). This means businesses will need to invest more in security measures to manage the risks associated with 5G deployment.

③ Connected IoT Devices (Smart Appliances, Cars, Healthcare Devices, etc.)

Quantitative Data:

  • Security Vulnerabilities of IoT Devices: A 2021 survey revealed that about 55% of companies recognized security risks related to IoT devices (Source: Deloitte, 2021). As more devices are connected through 5G, over 50% of IoT devices could be vulnerable to cyberattacks (Source: Verizon, 2021).
  • IoT Device Attack Examples: In 2020, attacks involving IoT devices accounted for 28% of all cyberattacks, with remote-control attacks and malware attacks increasing (Source: Check Point Research, 2020). These attacks are expected to become more risky as 5G networks expand.

Differences in Coverage by Region

There is a significant difference in 5G coverage between urban and rural areas in Japan. According to the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications, the national average population coverage rate reached 96.6% by the end of March 2023. However, by prefecture, the top areas are as follows:

  • Osaka: 99.9%
  • Tokyo: 99.8%
  • Kanagawa: 99.8%
  • Saitama: 99.7%

On the other hand, areas with lower coverage include:

  • Shimane: 82.0%
  • Kochi: 83.2%
  • Iwate: 86.0%

These figures show that while 5G adoption is very high in urban areas, it is lagging in rural regions. The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications has set a goal to achieve a nationwide average coverage rate of 97% and 90% coverage in each prefecture by the end of fiscal 2025.

I believe that in addition to the spread of 5G, the reduction in communication costs is also a significant factor. With many low-cost plans emerging, the use of smartphones and tablets is likely to continue growing in the future.

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