Softbank has just bought a stake in declining PHS operator Willcom, which gives it access to 2.5-GHz frequencies. For that spectrum range it's considering mobile Wimax, Chinese-backed TD-LTE, or XGP, Willcom's next-gen PHS technology.
But it's awaiting on an outcome of a government review of the much sought after 700-MHz and 900-MHz ranges. Both of Softbank's competitors have long occupied this valuable radio real estate and the company is lobbying hard to even up the playing field.
According to Matsumoto, the real value of LTE is only in spectrum deployments wider than 20 MHz. Softbank only has 20 MHz.
Looking ahead, the company's strategy is to become a global player in mobile internet.
"It doesn't mean we will invest in mobile... we would like to tie up with operators through the world, and we would like to be a creator of new value in the services layer," he said.
"Our expertise is not in network operation, there are lots of experts there. Our capability is in the service stream; applications, content and the entire ecosystem."
What the judges said: "In four years, this operator has completely changed the rules in its market. For its boldness, innovation and successful execution"
Winners' list:
- Best Asian Telecom Carrier - Softbank Mobile (Japan)
- Telecom CEO of the Year- Jamaludin Ibrahim, Axiata (Malaysia)
- Best Mobile Carrier - Celcom Axiata (Malaysia)
- Best Fixed-Line & Broadband Carrier - Hong Kong Broadband Network (Hong Kong)
- Best Emerging Markets Carrier - Tata DOCOMO (India)
- Best Regional Mobile Group - Axiata (Malaysia)
- Best Converged Services - SK Telecom (Korea)
- Best Content Strategy - PCCW (Hong Kong)
- Best Managed Services Provider - BT Asia-Pacific (UK)
- Best International Wholesale Carrier - Hutchison Global Communications (Hong Kong)
- Most Disruptive Technology- iPhone (Apple)
Related video: Celebrating Asia's telecom champions