Traditional Japanese flip phones, known as gara-kei, survived for decades with unique local features before final 3G network shutdowns ended their era.
A look at how shifting mobile infrastructure impacts long-lasting hardware ecosystems and older device models.
These devices have managed to remain popular in Japan for decades, offering features such as TV reception, embedded chips for payments on trains and in stores, and durable construction. However, consumer habits have changed significantly. According to a study by Docomo, smartphones accounted for 90% of mobile phone owners in Japan in 2021, a figure that will reach 98% by 2025. At the same time, shipments of such devices fell by more than 25%, falling below 400.000 units in the first half of fiscal 2025, according to research firm MM Research Institute.
The end of the old network
The definitive shift accelerated after NTT Docomo terminated the last of its legacy network services in March, following similar moves by au in 2022 and SoftBank in 2024. Docomo's termination of internet service on these devices is estimated to affect half a million people and more than 400 phone models, while also affecting other systems such as car navigation systems and vending machines.
Adapting to new technology
The age composition of Japanese society plays a significant role in the change, with 29% of the population aged 65 and over expected to be aged 65 or over by 2024, according to the World Economic Forum. To boost digital literacy, the Tokyo government distributed 3.000 smartphones to seniors in 2021, while NTT Docomo is running classes in its stores to teach citizens how to navigate the internet and use touchscreens.
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