SoftBank is teaming with Cisco to deploy optical technologies to boost network capacity while reducing energy consumption.

The deployment, set to take place across metro networks in Japan, will see Cisco’s 400G-capable routers connected to SoftBank’s network to boost performance.

Cisco’s Silicon One Q200 chip, which debuted in late 2020, provides switching capabilities from a single die, meaning its routers can provide more routing using less hardware. As a result, the pair claim the routers provide SoftBank’s network with approximately seven-times the switching capacity while slashing energy consumption by about half.

The first phase of the project was completed in Osaka Prefecture in central Japan last month, with the aim of being nationwide by 2027. SoftBank and Cisco said the project will help to accommodate increasing data traffic from 5G, future 6G deployments, and other emerging technologies.

“In response to the growing data demands driven by AI and next-generation technologies, we are delivering a highly scalable, high-capacity network,” Teruyuki Oya, VP and head of the technology unit in SoftBank’s mobile and network technology division, explained. “Furthermore, by combining IP and optical technologies, we aim to achieve both energy efficiency and flexibility, evolving Japan's communications foundation into a more resilient and sustainable platform that supports society and industry.”

SoftBank has been making strides to upgrade its network infrastructure in its native Japan for some time.

In October 2023, the carrier shifted to what it described as an “all-optical network.” Here, optical transmission tech from Fujitsu, including its 1FINITY T900, was employed to boost capacity and transmission speeds in its core networks.

Its latest upgrade focuses on Japan’s metro networks, adding optical improvements to connect base stations and other user-proximate points to its core network.

In addition to Cisco’s flagship routers, SoftBank’s metro upgrades will also make use of the vendor’s optical amplifier modules: the QSFP-DD Pluggable Open Line System (OLS).

These are pluggables about the size of one's palm that are directly installed on routers and other end-application devices to further boost performance. SoftBank said when combined with its optical multiplexer system, the pluggables drastically reduce energy consumption compared to conventional configurations.

“This partnership is focused on delivering a scalable, environmentally friendly infrastructure that supports Japan's digital transformation and AI-driven growth,” Vish Iyer, Cisco’s SVP for service providers across Asia Pacific and Japan (APJ), added. “By combining our strengths, we are helping to build a more efficient connected future that benefits both businesses and citizens across the country.”