Nokia has announced a new partnership and joint research project with major Japanese telco, NTT Docomo, ‘to explore and harness the potential of Nokia Networks’ 5G radio technology in the 4.4-4.9 GHz band.’

Both companies say they are ‘working towards achieving throughput speeds of 10 Gbps and optimised latency using frequencies below 6 GHz.’

In addition, the trials will also demonstrate Licensed Assisted Access (LAA) with 5G to use unlicensed spectrum as well as interworking with LTE through Dual Connectivity (DC).

This is all supposed to ‘help DOCOMO take a major step towards its vision of having a commercial 5G network in 2020.’

Key focus areas of the R&D collaboration include the deployment of 5G baseband to achieve 10 Gbps, a demonstration of LAA (5.47-5.725 GHz) and a demonstration of LTE interworking between below 6 GHz, cmWave and mmWave technologies using Nokia Networks’ commercial Single RAN Advanced hardware.

NTT Docomo VP and MD of its 5G lab, Takehiro Nakamura said “We have been investigating a broad range of potential 5G technologies to be deployed in the 2020s. Meanwhile, we are also focused on laying a solid foundation for the targeted launch of our 5G network in 2020.

“In line with this vision, we take a further step by collaborating with Nokia Networks to explore the possibilities of 5G at below 6 GHz frequencies to deliver high performance, a solid coverage area and a truly unique service experience via our 5G network.”

Nokia Network’s VP for HetRAN, Niko Lalu said: “After showcasing high-speed data transmission in 5G, Nokia Networks and DOCOMO have now moved to the next level of strategic engagement with this agreement.

“The initiative underlines our commitment to support the operator in its endeavour to deliver an unparalleled experience to customers in Japan.”

More background information on Nokia’s 5G plans with NTT Docomo is available here.