SoftBank Corp. just dropped some big news for Japan’s communications scene. They’re teaming up with Cisco Systems G.K. to roll out an all‑optical metro network in cities all over the country.
After launching a nationwide all‑optical core network in 2023, SoftBank’s now looking to take this high‑performance tech into urban areas. The move could slash energy use and ramp up connectivity speeds in a big way.
The project aims to blend advanced optical networking with the latest IP tech. If all goes as planned, Japan could find itself leading the pack in sustainable, AI‑ready infrastructure.
The Push Toward an All‑Optical Future
Traditional networks still lean on optical‑electrical‑optical (O‑E‑O) conversions during data transfers. That eats up energy and slows things down.
An all‑optical network skips those conversions, sending data purely as light from one end to the other. SoftBank claims this could mean up to a 90% cut in energy consumption.
It’s a win for the bottom line, sure, but it also fits right in with Japan’s push for sustainability. Less energy, smaller carbon footprint—what’s not to like?
From Core to Metro: Expanding the Optical Landscape
SoftBank’s 2023 rollout of an all‑optical core network set things in motion for metro‑level upgrades. Now, the metro network expansion is on track to connect dense city regions with ultra‑fast fiber by 2027.
The network will handle heavy data loads for AI, cloud, and high‑def streaming. Osaka Prefecture got the first taste when SoftBank finished the initial phase there in September 2025.
The Cisco Technology Powering the Vision
Cisco’s bringing their best to the table with 400GbE routers built for urban demands. These routers form the backbone of this high‑capacity, energy‑savvy network.
There are two standout Cisco features making this all work:
- QSFP‑DD pluggable open line system – a small optical amplifier that plugs right into routers, so you don’t need bulky extras.
- 400G OpenZR+ coherent optical transceivers – they handle long‑distance, high‑capacity data without giving up performance or stability.
Advanced IP Integration for Scalability
The network doesn’t just get an optical facelift—it also weaves in IP tech like Segment Routing IPv6 (SRv6). That brings more scalability and lets operators steer traffic flexibly, which is key in packed city networks.
With optical and IP working together, the infrastructure can stretch and adapt as new, data-hungry tech comes online. Think industrial IoT or real‑time language models—this network’s supposed to handle it.
Driving Sustainability and AI Readiness
SoftBank and Cisco execs say this partnership isn’t just about speed. It’s about building a future‑proof network for Japan’s data‑hungry future.
AI, 5G, AR, and high‑quality digital media are all driving up demand for low latency and massive capacity. All‑optical networking seems like the only way to keep up.
Cutting energy use isn’t just a bonus—it’s a must for keeping telecom growth in line with environmental goals. More companies should probably pay attention here.
Strategic Impact on Japan’s Digital Economy
If this all‑optical metro network rolls out as planned, Japan’s digital economy could see massive changes. Here’s what’s on the table:
- Faster AI model training and inference across different data centers.
- Better telemedicine, with real‑time imaging and diagnostics.
- Smarter cities, with upgraded public services and transport.
- Media that streams seamlessly to millions of city dwellers at once.
Looking Ahead
Japan expects to finish the project in 2027. If all goes as planned, it could become a global leader in blending sustainability with powerful digital infrastructure.
The SoftBank–Cisco project goes beyond a simple tech upgrade. It’s a big shift in how telecom networks get built, run, and optimized for whatever’s next.
AI keeps spreading into more industries. That makes this kind of infrastructure even more valuable.
Japan is removing old bottlenecks and leaning into advanced optical and IP tech. In doing so, it’s setting up an energy-efficient, smarter communications ecosystem that could spark new innovations for years.
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Here is the source article for this story: SoftBank and Cisco to Deploy All-Optical Network in Japan