Nippon Communications Delays Full MVNO Launch to Spring 2027
The operator cited technical problems interconnecting with voice carriers, pushing its Neo Carrier service back about five months from November 24, 2026.
Nippon Communications has postponed the launch of its Full MVNO service, which relies on interconnection with NTT DoCoMo's voice and SMS networks, by about five months from the planned November 24, 2026 date to spring 2027, according to ascii.jp. The company attributed the delay to technical issues in interconnection with voice carriers.
It is the second postponement for the service, which the company calls Neo Carrier. The launch was first set for May 24 in Nippon Communications' 30th anniversary year before being pushed back by half a year to November 24.
In February 2024, Nippon Communications and NTT DoCoMo agreed on interconnection. In July 2026, the two sides signed the interconnection agreement, and the operator moved ahead with building an emergency communications network and connecting with voice carriers.
Full MVNO operators run more of their own core network than standard MVNOs, which lease capacity from a host carrier. Another Japanese provider, mineo, operated by Optage, is also preparing a full MVNO service and is targeting the second half of 2027.
Quick answers
When will Nippon Communications launch its Full MVNO service?
The start is now planned for spring 2027, after a delay of about five months from November 24, 2026.
Why was the launch delayed?
Nippon Communications cited technical issues in interconnection with voice carriers.
Is this the first delay?
No. It is the second postponement; the service was initially planned for May 24 before moving to November 24, 2026.