Vodafone K.K. today said it plans an extensive series of upgrades to its 3G network so that the Vodafone group’s Japanese outpost will have 99.6% population coverage by the end of May. This begs the question, where are the new terminals that are needed to really pull in the subscribers?

WWJ will eschew the opportunity to harp on about the handset issue– yes we know they’ll be coming round the mountain in September– and focus on the laudable, or audible at least, network improvements.

Remember Vodafone was the company with the miraculously inexpensive 3G strategy using mini basestations that had a network up but precious few phones way back in December 2002.

Well 18 months later, if we can believe Vodafone K.K., the network is as good as done; through May, Vodafone says it will be expanding 119 serviceareas, upgrading the network quality of 240 areas and will add 22 indoor coverage spots for a total of 381 additions. For more information, take a look at today’s press release [.pdf format] Here.

Related posts:

1. Vodafone KK Expands Roaming Areas
2. Vodafone K.K. Introduces Vodafone Happy Packet Discount Service
3. Vodafone KK roaming service areas top 150
4. Vodafone Expands to Hong Kong
5. Vodafone K.K. Launches Disaster Message Board Service

Some sage advise when entering new turf; Stop, Look and Listen.. it’s also good to secure a local guide. Japan is the cradle of mobile civilization – we have been dedicated to this space since 2001 – trust our archives here offer some useful material.

Domestic activities continue to set the pace, and sharp players are looking at global markets. We have hard-earned industry expertise and trusted network of contacts with access to advanced intell. and potential deal flow. Need a lift.. Ok, buckle-up!