What did Japan's Radio Regulatory Council decide on August 31, 2026?
The council issued a report advising that the draft ministerial ordinance amending the Radio Act Enforcement Regulations and Frequency Allocation Plan for 700 MHz non-geostationary satellite-to-phone communications is appropriate as proposed, clearing MIC to issue the binding ordinance.
Who needs to prepare for the 700 MHz satellite-to-phone ordinance?
Rakuten Mobile and AST SpaceMobile, handset OEMs selling into Japan, Giteki-issuing Registered Certification Bodies such as TELEC, the 2 GHz D2D incumbents KDDI, NTT Docomo and SoftBank, and existing 700 MHz terrestrial users who must check interference-protection conditions.
What certification does 700 MHz satellite-to-phone equipment need in Japan?
Specified radio equipment needs Technical Regulations Conformity Certification or Construction Design Certification (Giteki) from an MIC-Registered Certification Body, plus the Giteki mark and ID before customs clearance, against the technical conditions set in the June 24, 2026 Information and Communications Council report.
When does the 700 MHz satellite-to-phone ordinance take effect?
MIC said it will promptly issue the ordinance after the council report. The entry-into-force date is set when the ordinance publishes in the Kanpo official gazette.