To meet the taxing data transmission demands of 5G next-generation mobile networks, the Japanese government is moving to develop better fiber-optic and other technology to support growing demand for faster connections.
The new networks will reach speeds of 10 gigabits per second -- 10 to 100 times current levels. With the spread of the "internet of things" and increased streaming of high-resolution 4K videos, the required bandwidth is seen growing 1,000-fold by the early 2020s.
To keep up with demand, the National Institute of Information and Communications Technology will conduct research on fiber-optic technology. It will also work with domestic electronics makers and other private-sector partners to bolster fiber-optic transmission capacity.
The government will also consider shouldering a portion of the cost for upgrading fiber infrastructure to faster versions.
Such companies as Nippon Telegraph & Telephone units have been largely responsible for installing Japan's communications networks until now. But replacing hardware nationwide "could cost over 5 trillion yen [$45.7 billion]," according to a government source. Some in the private sector are calling for public assistance to help cover the costs.