Mobile phones in Japan

Hi all, can I use a tri-band GSM phone in Japan? I get a feeling I can't but am not 100% sure?

Regards

John

Originally posted by JAT74L
Hi all, can I use a tri-band GSM phone in Japan? I get a feeling I can't but am not 100% sure?

No you can't since their 2G phone networks use completely different technology.

You can, however, use a 3G phone there since they use UMTS for that as we do. You will still need to check your network has a roaming agreement with a Japanese network.

[mitchja]

I'm on Virgin Mobile (monthly direct debit plan) and according to their web site I can use my handset in Japan.

Regards

James,

Go to this page and select "Direct Debit" and "Japan" at the bottom. On the next page, you'll see it says "Required handset: 3G".

They don't make it very clear at all.

[mitchja]

Thanks for clearing that up Jason.

I think I'm right in saying that Virgin Mobile dont even do 3G handsets do they [?] Not that's there's any 3G coverage where I am anyway!!

Regards

They seem to be keeping very quiet about it, but they have launched 3G.

One 3G phone they sell is the Nokia 6630, not sure if they have launched any others yet.