Cloud-native 5G mobile network operator built on open RAN architecture
Rakuten Mobile operates a greenfield 5G network built on cloud-native and open RAN principles, running on AWS, Azure, and GCP with Kubernetes orchestration across packet core functions. The engineering-heavy org (49 engineers) is actively deployed across base station construction, device technology development, and network resilience — indicating a company still in infrastructure buildout phase rather than optimization, with acute operational complexity and coverage expansion as near-term constraints.
Notable leadership hires: Tech Lead, OSS & Automation Lead, Device Connectivity Lead, Device Technology Lead
Rakuten Mobile is a Rakuten Group subsidiary and Japan-based mobile network operator (MNO) founded in 2019. The company operates a 5G network centered on cloud-native and open RAN architecture, positioning itself as an alternative to traditional carrier infrastructure. The operational scope spans network design and packet core optimization, base station deployment and inventory management, device technology roadmap development, and enterprise fixed-line service expansion. Rakuten Mobile serves both consumer and enterprise customers across Japan.
Rakuten Mobile runs its network on cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, GCP) with Kubernetes container orchestration, open RAN architecture, and cloud-native packet core functions. The stack includes Java, Kotlin, Python, and standard telecom protocols (3GPP, LTE, 5G).
Current focus areas include base station construction and installation, device technology roadmap execution, packet core network optimization, expanding critical coverage areas, and maintaining service resilience during disasters.
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