How to navigate new worlds

April 26, 2026

TL;DR

Japan's last 3G network, operated by NTT Docomo, has been permanently shut down.
This shutdown affects around 500,000 users and over 400 phone models, primarily impacting individuals over 70.
Users risk losing phone numbers, emails, and voice calls if they do not adopt smartphones on 4G and 5G networks.
The transition is crucial for maintaining communication and avoiding digital isolation, especially in a country with a growing elderly population and a high percentage of single-person households.
Training centers are being established to help elderly users overcome fears and learn to use smartphones.
The challenge involves adapting to basic functions, payments, weather forecasts, health trackers, and eventually entertainment and social media.

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