Rakuten

Rakuten Mobile and AST SpaceMobile completed Japan’s first satellite video call using unmodified smartphones in April 2025. This test marks a major advancement toward Rakuten’s Saikyo Satellite Service, set to launch in 2026, which will expand mobile coverage across remote and disaster-prone regions using AST’s LEO satellite network.
AI means many things to many people. Under the radar however, AI is emerging as the change agent in the RAN marketplace. Through direct and indirect means, AI and ML technologies are injecting diversity into the RAN vendor landscape. AI is not new to RAN. What is new is the combination of AI and RAN-disaggregation initiatives such as Open RAN, SDN and NFV. Established leaders, companies with telecom pedigree, consulting majors and startups are some of the notable stakeholders looking to leverage AI in the RAN. As a consequence, there is a very real probability that cellular operators will have real choices in their RAN design and deployment endeavors.
AST SpaceMobile has unveiled its space-based 5G broadband capabilities, achieving a new data rate of 14 Mbps, following successful 4G tests with AT&T and Vodafone. This was accomplished using the BlueWalker 3 satellite, in partnership with Vodafone, AT&T, and Nokia. This advancement underscores the potential of bridging 4G and 5G connectivity gaps globally. AST SpaceMobile’s patented technology will also be integral to their commercial satellites, with the first five set for a Q1 2024 launch.
Discover how the Telecom Infra Project (TIP) is leading the Open RAN revolution by accelerating the commercial adoption of secure, high-performance network solutions. Tackling challenges in Open RAN adoption and catalyzing industry effort, TIP’s project groups, badging processes, and marketplace initiatives are reshaping the future of Open RAN and 5G technology.
We are witnessing a paradigm shift in telecommunications. Open RAN is at the forefront, emphasizing a disaggregated and open approach to network architecture. This change has the potential to redefine global communication networks by enabling interoperability, fostering innovation, and democratizing access to advanced 5G technology. However, international cooperation on the Open RAN policy is vital to harness its potential fully. Governments worldwide must embrace pro-Open RAN policies, unlock funding, and encourage cross-border investments. Join Open RAN Policy Coalition in this revolution to enhance connectivity, narrow the digital divide, and promote socio-economic development worldwide.
AT&T is formalizing plans to lease spectrum to AST SpaceMobile in order to bolster its coverage using satellite connectivity. This move aims to integrate satellite connectivity into AT&T’s mobile access technologies, expanding its coverage to unserved and underserved areas. AST SpaceMobile plans to launch its satellite constellation in early 2024, pending necessary approvals and funding.
Radical change does not have to be complex.
In order to maximize revenue and add more value, operators must expand their connectivity offerings beyond speed and customer experience; they need to expand their footprint into edge cloud platforms and AI-based solution stacks. Doing this will help them secure a larger share of the potential profits.
Geoff delves into why 5G revenues have failed to meet expectations, what customers and businesses anticipate from network operators and the potential for operators to capitalize on new monetization opportunities.
Explore the innovative strides of Rakuten in optimizing 5G technologies through Open RAN solutions. Dive into a comprehensive analysis of how the digital giant is shaping the future of connectivity, ensuring robust, scalable, and efficient networks. Learn about the transformative impact of Open RAN and Rakuten’s pioneering initiatives in the realm of 5G deployments, offering enhanced user experiences, and driving the global telecom industry towards a future of seamless, high-speed connectivity.
The MoU would enable AST SpaceMobile and Zain KSA to collaborate towards new telecom solutions and satellite-based digital services in Saudi Arabia and aim to increase access to mobile services in remote locations, including on land, at sea, and in flight.

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