Japan to create 10b 14-digit mobile numbers by 2021
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Japan’s communications ministry plans to create around 10 billion 14-digit phone numbers in anticipation of the 5G era.
The 14-digit numbers starting with the code 020 will be introduced by 2021 at the latest.
The current stock of 11 digit mobile numbers is expected to run out as early as the 2022 financial year.
In response, a panel of experts has proposed to introduce the new numbers once the necessary preparations are complete, and Japan’s big three mobile operators NTT Docomo, KDDI and SoftBank have agreed to the proposal.
Now the ministry has announced it will draft a report on the matter as early as June and aims to complete a ministerial ordinance by the end of the year.
New numbers will be allocated to the operators early if they complete the necessary upgrades ahead of schedule, the report states.
Japan currently uses 11 digit numbers starting with 090, 080 and 070 for mobile phones, and with 020 for IoT devices.
Questions & Answers
Q.Why is the Japanese communications ministry creating more mobile numbers?
Why is the Japanese communications ministry creating more mobile numbers?
The ministry plans to create more numbers because the current stock of 11-digit mobile numbers is expected to run out as early as the 2022 financial year. This is in anticipation of the 5G era.
Q.When will the new 14-digit mobile numbers be introduced?
When will the new 14-digit mobile numbers be introduced?
The new 14-digit numbers, which will start with the code 020, are planned to be introduced by 2021 at the latest. The ministry aims to complete a ministerial ordinance by the end of the year.
Q.Which mobile operators have agreed to the proposal for new numbers?
Which mobile operators have agreed to the proposal for new numbers?
Japan's three largest mobile operators, NTT Docomo, KDDI, and SoftBank, have all agreed to the proposal. They will be allocated new numbers early if they complete necessary upgrades ahead of schedule.
Q.What is the current use of numbers starting with 020 in Japan?
What is the current use of numbers starting with 020 in Japan?
Currently, numbers starting with 020 are used for IoT (Internet of Things) devices in Japan. The new 14-digit mobile numbers will also begin with this code, expanding its usage.