4G / LTE
4G・LTE(第4世代移動通信) fō-jī / eru-tī-ī
The mature mobile generation that carries most everyday smartphone data and, with VoLTE, voice calls across broad coverage areas.
4G is often more widely available than 5G and is sufficient for messaging, maps, music, video and tethering. Speed still depends on frequency band, signal, cell capacity, congestion, plan restrictions and device capability.
When 5G is weak, a phone normally falls back to 4G. A 5G icon is not required for a good connection, and forcing 5G can sometimes use more battery without improving the application.
Dictionary
Related guides
3G mobile network3G(第3世代移動通信)surī-jī
An older mobile generation used for voice and low-speed data. Japanese carriers have retired or scheduled the retirement of their 3G services.
5G mobile network5G(第5世代移動通信)faibu-jī
The mobile generation designed for higher capacity, lower latency and many connected devices, deployed with several frequency bands and network architectures.
5G SA / Standalone5G SA(スタンドアローン)faibu-jī esu-ē
A 5G architecture using a 5G core network rather than relying on a 4G core and 4G control connection as non-standalone 5G does.
ADSLADSLē-dī-esu-eru
An older broadband technology that sends data over a copper telephone line. Major Japanese consumer ADSL services have ended or are being retired.
Analogue telephone lineアナログ回線・加入電話anarogu kaisen / kanyū denwa
A traditional fixed telephone access line using a local telephone number. The network behind it has been modernized, but existing analogue telephone services and rules still differ from fibre or mobile-based fixed phones.