Required frequencies for network coverage:
These SIM cards utilize the Softbank network and the primary 4G frequency used by this network is:
4G Band 1 – 2100MHz
It is important that your device supports this frequency as as this will provide network coverage in most major locations.
We would therefore recommend using a device that supports this frequency at the very least.
The network also supports the following additional frequencies:
4G Band 3 – 1800MHz
4G Band 8 – 900MHz
The 4G Band 8 frequencies can offer improved network coverage in mountainous regions / inside buildings etc.
The 4G Band 3 frequency is also commonly used in major areas such as Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka.
For the best possible network coverage, we would recommend using a device that supports the primary frequencies we first mentioned (4G Band 1 – 2100MHz frequencies) in addition to as many of the other frequencies shown above as possible.
Handset Compatibility
Due to the wide range of handsets that are available on the market (and the different versions of each handset type that are often offered by different suppliers/networks), we do not offer a compatibility checking service.
If you are not sure if your device has been fully unlocked (to accept SIM cards from alternative service providers) or you wish to ensure that your device supports the required frequencies for network coverage, we would recommend that you query this with the original retailer / service provider you purchased the device from.
In addition to your device being fully unlocked (and it supporting the correct frequencies) however, your device must also be VoLTE capable. The Softbank network recently shut down their 3G network and so phone calls are now placed through VoLTE via the 4G LTE network.
Important Note: We have found that some VoLTE capable devices are just not fully compatible with the VoLTE service provided by the Softbank network. Due to this issue, we have started to create a list of Incompatible Devices based on customer feedback / issues reports and so if your device is VoLTE capable but it is included in this list, it may not be suitable for use (if you require access to the calling feature).