Samsung clinches 5G contract with NTT Docomo

Samsung Electronics' 5G smartphone Galaxy S20 is put on display at the KT Square in central Seoul. [YONHAP]

Samsung Electronics won a contract to supply 5G network equipment to Japanese mobile operator NTT Docomo, which could help increase Samsung’s share in a network equipment sector dominated by Huawei and Ericsson.

Samsung announced Tuesday it will supply radio units for radio access network, a technique that uses radio frequencies for wireless connectivity to devices, for the fifth generation wireless network.

Docomo had discussed the supply of 5G network equipment with Huawei, but pressure from the U.S. apparently led it to work with Samsung.

“As a leading mobile operator, our goal is to provide our customers the best possible services for creating innovative, fun and exciting experiences and finding solutions to social issues,” said Sadayuki Abeta, General Manager of the Radio Access Network Development Department at NTT Docomo.

Samsung also celebrated the deal.

“Our goal is to leverage Samsung’s technical leadership to bring the best network solutions to mobile operators around the world, so they can deliver the next generation of transformative 5G services and electrifying user experiences.” said Satoshi Iwao, Vice President and Head of the Network Division at Samsung Electronics Japan.

Despite diplomatic challenges, Huawei still commanded 32.8 percent of the 5G network equipment market as of last year's third quarter, according to market tracker Dell’Oro.

Ericsson came in second with 30.7 percent share and Samsung only controlled 6.4 percent.

BY PARK EUN-JEE [park.eunjee@joongang.co.kr]