Thats very good. IF she can report what settings she used and also if she can check her bill to see if charges cap on whatever plan and settings she uses or has, that would be a huge help to all of us.
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iphone in japan with docomo
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Thats very good. IF she can report what settings she used and also if she can check her bill to see if charges cap on whatever plan and settings she uses or has, that would be a huge help to all of us.
VIP KING,
this site very informative (great find!) as it explains in detail how to make an unlocked iPhone work on the Docomo network. However, as you have also seen, the connection speed will be only 128K and the guy states on his site that it's pretty slow and inconvenient. I am not sure if I would be ready to pay 5,985Yen for a 128K flat rate. Docomo is again screwing customers who don't buy/use their handsets by charging them the same amount for a data flat rate as Docomo handset users, but significantly decreasing the transmission speed.🙄
I can see his point and yours, however I don't need or use internet exclusively any way. I just need multiple emails pushed, phone service and internet when I need. I'm not expecting 10mb downloads in 3sec flat.
If you read what he states about 128k internet (I'm sure you did), http://translate.google.com/transla...30docomo.html&hl=en&rurl=translate.google.com
he mentions that the internet connection isn't that bad, its the Google maps and YouTube that have issues. Which in my position, I don't exclusively use either, movies are for home, and maps are for my car navi.
His quote exactly "In Safari, Web browsing, can be used reasonably". and this along with my other desires is okay for now... that is until something better comes along.
On another note, I suppose if I needed quick internet on the go, I have WiFi ability and I could always swap my APN to mopera.net and just pay the cost to use it for that time I was desperate for a quicker connection.
As long as I have reliable and good signal strength, which Docomo has over Softy, I'm good to go for now. And the price isn't too bad. 🙄
I suppose I am just trying to be logical about my true needs, along with saving myself a lot of grief and money trying to swap over to Softy without having to buy one of their phones or worse, not buying their iPhone and trying to grease my way into getting my iPhone to work. 🙄
NINJA EDIT: Any idea what this link is for, I tried to download but have not idea what it is? http://translate.google.com/transla...30docomo.html&hl=en&rurl=translate.google.com
And I can't seem to figure out if the APN for 128k is in need or not of a user name and password?
IN ADDITION: Remember that law I was telling you about coming in Japan? Here are the sources (happened to stumble upon it), direct from his site too if you look under his References and FAQ section, good reading there to be had.
Link: http://translate.google.com/transla...30docomo.html&hl=en&rurl=translate.google.com
Link to article on law: http://translate.googleusercontent....le.com&usg=ALkJrhgX3jHYY8I_zjt8w0fUQTQpL_0i_w
I read the untranslated website and he states that it's slow and inconvenient. Well, I don't want to argue about what this guy said and think that it boils down to trying out the 128K APN and deciding whether the speed is acceptable. (BTW, it's max. 128Kbps for receiving and max. 64Kbps for sending data.) I am already annoyed about the speed of my HT-03A, but this is probably mainly due to the hardware. Therefore, I might not be happy with 128Kbps. I'll try it out again with my HT-03A and see whether it's acceptable.
Update: The 128K APN setting doesn't work with my HT-03A (w/ and w/o Username and PW). I wonder why... IMEI filtering?
If you need Wifi, I also recommend signing up for Docomo's Public WLAN service (=option for Mopera U Standard) as it's available at many stations.
To which link are you referring to?
http://www.da-steez.com/blog/2009/06/iphone_os_30docomo.html ?? If so, this site doesn't provide any new info as far as I can see.
This guy states that a username and passsord are not required for the 128K APN (mpr.ex-pkt.net ).
Interesting! I wonder what measures the cell phone providers will take to protect their business. They already increased the handset prices when number portability was introduced. Will they increase it even more or introduce fees that make it expensive to carry over the handset to another provider? It's about time to make the system more customer-friendly. The current system is rip-off as they lock in customers, but still sell the handsets at high prices (doesn't make a difference if it's paid over two years).
Brief update: The following two Docomo phones can be used for tethering as they have the WiFi access point function: N-02B and N-06B. If one uses the 128K APN, the cap will be at 5,985Yen (incl. tax). However, if one uses a faster APN (up to 7.2Mbps) the cap will be at 13,650Yen (incl. tax). In both cases, one will have to sign up for Pake Hodai Double (as these phones are i-mode phones). The latter option would be the Pake Hodai Plan with PC tethering.
As described on the website that was posted by VIP KING, one can use the 128K APN with an iPhone and the PC tethering option should also work with an iPhone and cap at 13,650Yen - assuming that the correct APN settings are used.
I just found out...
Softbank has expanded coverage where I live. Sometime in the last three months, Softbank has coverage where I live!
Man, oh man, the possibilities!
Softbank has expanded coverage where I live. Sometime in the last three months, Softbank has coverage where I live!
Man, oh man, the possibilities!
That's great news!!
The funny thing is, my wife and I live in Tachikawa (pretty populated and big area if you know Tokyo at all). And my wifes Softy connection in our appartment is literally... garbage!! She can only get a signal (just barley) standing in one spot near our kitchen, in our appartment. LOL 🙄
So, is that 128 kbps line working out for you guys? Cause I was under the impression that that line is for always on connections and is billed by the amount of time you're on, not by the amount of data used.
Is it really capped at ￥5,985? Perhaps because you're billed by the time and not data, then they just bill everyone the same regardless of IMEI numbers?
Is it really capped at ￥5,985? Perhaps because you're billed by the time and not data, then they just bill everyone the same regardless of IMEI numbers?
I will get that Pake Hodai Double and use the 128k APN starting this coming Sunday. I will keep you posted. I gather it caps because you're only using a slower internet connection speed as opposed to what the iPhone is doing normally IE: considered PC tethering on Docomos network.
I could certainly be wrong, however this is what I understand on the previously mention Japanese Docomo/iPhone website I provided links to. In addition, I think that may be what Ron is using, however considering the guy doesn't help much nor reply anymore, I am begining to think whatever he said is working... no longer works like he claims, or it never did to begin with. Until otherwise, that's where I stand with Rons claims.
That was the case before the change.
Have a look at the below website:
http://translate.google.co.jp/trans...o.co.jp/info/news_release/page/091105_00.html
or the Japanese version
http://www.nttdocomo.co.jp/info/news_release/page/091105_00.html
Docomo changed their Pake Hodai billing in December and applies the 5,985Yen cap to users that use the 128K APN (mpr.ex-pkt.net). You are still charged if you use a faster APN as the 5,985Yen cap would not apply.
Let's wait for VIP KING's feedback after he switched to Pake Hodai Double and the 128K APN.
Another interesting news is that from April 2010 Docomo will merge the Pake Hodai Double (i-mode) and Biz Hodai Double ("Non i-mode") plans. Biz Hodai Double will disappear and customers will be switched to Pake Hodai Double - as far as I understand.
Makes sense as they now have phones that have both, i-mode and standard Internet access capabilities. Charging customers two flat rates (Pake Hodai and Biz Hodai) would be obviously rip-off.
http://translate.google.co.jp/trans.../info/notice/page/100121_00_m.html?ref=gp_top
Probably no change for iPhone users as the cap seems to be still over 13,000Yen for PC tethering. Docomo states in the news release that in case of an 'incorrect' configuration the cap would be 13,650Yen. If they continue with IMEI filtering, the iPhone would be still locked out and not able to access the access points which can be used by Docomo phone users. However, I still have some hope... Probably when the NxG iPhone comes out... 😛 Let's wait for the Apple tablet first... 😀
Seeing that the ipad is only $29.99 for all you can eat data back in the states sure has me jealous. If only those "Americans" knew how lucky they are. But I remember I used to complain too.
Okay, so I just looked at the translation of the website you shared. And I'm a little concerned about the 1st footnote, talking about maximum transmission rate is only 64kbps? I'm thinking that VIP King will be mega frustrated if he wants to use it for anything but some pop mail.
Okay, so I just looked at the translation of the website you shared. And I'm a little concerned about the 1st footnote, talking about maximum transmission rate is only 64kbps? I'm thinking that VIP King will be mega frustrated if he wants to use it for anything but some pop mail.
Yeah, Japanese cell phone providers are rip-off artists. The average customer doesn't complain as he/she doesn't know the data plans in other countries. Japan is an island - in many respects. 😛
Yes, 64Kbps is pretty slow, but might be enough for e-mails that don't have any attachments such as pictures etc. VIP KING should be using it from tomorrow. Let's wait for his feedback.
Bad news update: I was not able to make it to a Docomo shop to switch over my plan. Sunday was the last and only date to make this happen or otherwise I would be charged for both plans. So my option and only one, is to wait until end of Feb to set new plan.
I apologize for the delay this will cause, I know most of you are counting on my evaluation of this.
On a side note to that last bit of comment I just made; a slower 128k connection wouldn't be that bad for me as most of what I use my phone for is email from multiple accounts. Internet would be the next best thing but I don't use it exclusively to begin with. I suppose if I had a capped internet connection at a resonable price I would use it a lot, however I limit myself considering the cost.
With that being said, one of the main reasons I want to swap to a Pake Hodai is simply to test and evavluate for the better of everyone who is looking to find their best options with Docomo and iPhone.
In any case I will keep all posted on any progress or changes. Unless anyone else steps up to the plate before I do and test the Pake Hodia and 128k connection and fees.
Hey Ron, where are you? 🙄
Ok so my friend in Japan is using the Pake Hodai Double 128k internet.She has a FOMA 3G Sim card from here N30ID phone. It caps at 60 USD or something like 5800 yen. She says it works fine for email and occasionally using Safari to access her imode.net.
Pake-Hodai Double 128k: 5985 including Tax
Mopera Stnd: With Wi-Fi Hotspots: 525 Yen
imode.net:210 Yen
These prices are all rip-off in my opinion but it does work for the iphone.
Hopefully, The new Ipad will be on Docomo in Japan which will make some sort of workable data plan.
This is sort of good news. Yes the speeds suck, but for normal users that don't need blazing fast internet, it works.
Any chance you could ask about the APN settings? Can you confirm the APN is the 128K one?
Thanks for the update too. 😉
Could we get a speed test on the line? I'm curious to see if its 128kps or 64kps. Ask her to download and run Speakeasy's Speed test for the iphone. 🙂 Arigatou Gozaimasu. 🙂🙂🙂
😎Hi,
Sorry to butt-in to the thread, but my wife and I are moving to Japan within the next few months and, since there are several very experienced Japan-iPhone users here, I thought that I could field a few of them to you. Thanks in advance for any advice.
After reading through this thread, I gather that the easiest method of obtaining a working iPhone would be through a plan with Softbank? Is this true?
I believe that others are using an (unlocked?) iPhone on DoCoMo... what's the advantage of non-Softbank?
Is GPS working on iPhones in Japan? Google Maps is one of the main reasons for me to get an iPhone in Japan.
I checked the Softbank website (English) to find out about plans, but I'm confused with their offerrings. What kind of plan could you recommend for someone who wants: Unlimited Data, a fairly cheap voice plan? How much are we looking at paying per month?
My wife has an AU/KDDI prepaid cell phone right now... is it possible for her to switch over to Softbank and carry-over that number?
I know that's a lot of questions and I'm hoping to get some advice from you experienced members! Thanks again!
Sorry to butt-in to the thread, but my wife and I are moving to Japan within the next few months and, since there are several very experienced Japan-iPhone users here, I thought that I could field a few of them to you. Thanks in advance for any advice.
After reading through this thread, I gather that the easiest method of obtaining a working iPhone would be through a plan with Softbank? Is this true?
I believe that others are using an (unlocked?) iPhone on DoCoMo... what's the advantage of non-Softbank?
Is GPS working on iPhones in Japan? Google Maps is one of the main reasons for me to get an iPhone in Japan.
I checked the Softbank website (English) to find out about plans, but I'm confused with their offerrings. What kind of plan could you recommend for someone who wants: Unlimited Data, a fairly cheap voice plan? How much are we looking at paying per month?
My wife has an AU/KDDI prepaid cell phone right now... is it possible for her to switch over to Softbank and carry-over that number?
I know that's a lot of questions and I'm hoping to get some advice from you experienced members! Thanks again!
I wonder what APN settings this new Xperia Smart phone will be using.
It is using: Paquet Hodai Double (formerly: Biz · Hodai double) 1
Paquet double Hodai 1 (formerly: Biz · Hodai double) and return the remains for the access point configuration changes due to the amount available for pay-per-establishment of overseas contracts are fixed-rate packet services, such as software updates line they may be redeemed during high packet communication charges, please change the settings for the access point must be fixed before returning home smartphone.
It is using: Paquet Hodai Double (formerly: Biz · Hodai double) 1
Paquet double Hodai 1 (formerly: Biz · Hodai double) and return the remains for the access point configuration changes due to the amount available for pay-per-establishment of overseas contracts are fixed-rate packet services, such as software updates line they may be redeemed during high packet communication charges, please change the settings for the access point must be fixed before returning home smartphone.
All the new Xperia uses Packet hodai double for smart phone and the APN is mpr2.bixho.net / no user or password / MCC=440 /MNC=10 so far I was able to measure the speed and it is around 1.8Mbits/s download on 3G but the up was 134Kbits/s
Just to let you know...
I've been using my unlocked 3Gs iPhone with a prepaid softbank SIM.
Also, I'm thinking of getting something that resembles the E-Mobile plan thats offered through softbank. For ¥4980, I can connect to WiFi anywhere (unlimited) as long as I carry this little modem around. (Sorry if my "terms" aren't correct. I'm new to the computer stuff!!)
So if I keep my calling to a minimum, I should be able to get by with ¥4980 + ¥3000 every other month.
I have to get more info on this but it might be the cheapest & simplest route?
Will keep you guys updated!!
I've been using my unlocked 3Gs iPhone with a prepaid softbank SIM.
Also, I'm thinking of getting something that resembles the E-Mobile plan thats offered through softbank. For ¥4980, I can connect to WiFi anywhere (unlimited) as long as I carry this little modem around. (Sorry if my "terms" aren't correct. I'm new to the computer stuff!!)
So if I keep my calling to a minimum, I should be able to get by with ¥4980 + ¥3000 every other month.
I have to get more info on this but it might be the cheapest & simplest route?
Will keep you guys updated!!
Xperia X10 Docomo APN settings
Hello all!
FYI Xperia APN settings
you have to change your Docomo account to Packet houdai double.
Name= Mopera U Smart phone
APN= mpr2.bizho.net
No user name or password
MCC=440
MNC=10
Can someone please try it and see if it works? I am planning to get an unlocked iPhone 3Gs and use it on the docomo net.
Hello all!
FYI Xperia APN settings
you have to change your Docomo account to Packet houdai double.
Name= Mopera U Smart phone
APN= mpr2.bizho.net
No user name or password
MCC=440
MNC=10
Can someone please try it and see if it works? I am planning to get an unlocked iPhone 3Gs and use it on the docomo net.