My 3G iPhone performance in Japan

[viewfly]

Well, I now know that the 2100Mhz frequency on my iPhone works! Japan has no GSM (2G), only 3G (GSM) and operating outside the normal quad band frequencies. This is one of the reasons I purchased the 3G.

I'm roaming on NTT DoMoCo mainly and some Softbank (formerly VodaPhone). Full bars everywhere (which means at least -99 and up to -79 for me so far). I'm in Tokyo and around the suburbs too. Reception is still very good, even inside buildings. I'm only had problems in elevators.

Mostly text SMS to the states, and a few phone calls. When I landed, I immediately got a text from ATT warning about Data roaming charges. The iPhone defaults to No data roaming. Voice quality is very good. Since I'm not using data at all, I'm amazed how long the battery is going ( 20 hours and still battery level is full).

I was puzzled why the 3G icon was not on. After all, I am using 3G for voice. So today, I turned on 3G data roaming and just checked my email. Viola, the 3G icon came on, and then off again when I turned data roaming off again. So I guess it means only data roaming.

I'm very pleased to have one phone that really is working everywhere for me. Fellow travelers are puzzled as to why their quad band GSM phones are not working... he he. No dropped call so far.

[bobolito]

Originally Posted by viewfly

.... he he. No dropped call so far.

Don't forget you're no longer using AT&T's network.

[viewfly]

Originally Posted by bobolito

Don't forget you're no longer using AT&T's network.

LOL, true. But remember that just a few weeks ago, the 'reports' were that the iPhone was not working all over the world, so 'proof' that it was the phone,not the network??. In some minds that debate still goes on.

I was very curious to see for myself , and I have!


vf