NTT West Explores IOWN Next-Gen Optical Network for Yumeshima Post-Expo Development, Aiming for Smart City Foundation

August 23, 2026

NTT West Japan

Overview

NTT West is considering deploying NTT’s Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN) as the foundation for post-Expo development in Yumeshima, Osaka, aiming to create a smart city infrastructure. IOWN’s All-Photonics Network (APN) promises ultra-low latency, high capacity, and energy-efficient digital infrastructure. The nationwide deployment of APN is planned by the end of fiscal year 2027.

In Depth

Key Findings

NTT West has revealed it is exploring the potential integration of NTT’s next-generation optical network concept, ‘IOWN (Innovative Optical and Wireless Network),’ into the post-Expo development project for the Yumeshima district in Osaka. This strategic move aims to leverage IOWN’s capabilities for ultra-low latency, high capacity, and energy-efficient digital infrastructure to establish Yumeshima as a cutting-edge smart city.

Technical / Clinical Details

Purpose of IOWN Integration: The primary objective of incorporating IOWN into the Yumeshima development is to advance and optimize the digital infrastructure established during the Expo, enhancing urban functions and efficiency. The All-Photonics Network (APN), a core component of IOWN, transmits optical signals end-to-end, minimizing data processing delays and providing robust capabilities for handling vast amounts of data efficiently.
All-Photonics Network (APN): APN, central to the IOWN concept, drastically reduces power consumption and significantly boosts network capacity by minimizing optical-to-electrical signal conversions. This is expected to stably support various future smart city applications, including real-time transmission of high-definition video, remote healthcare, and autonomous driving assistance.
Nationwide Deployment Plan: The NTT Group plans to complete the nationwide rollout of APN by the end of fiscal year 2027. The deployment in Yumeshima, as part of this national strategy, offers a unique opportunity for real-world validation in an advanced urban environment.

Background & Context

As smart city initiatives progress globally, the importance of high-speed and reliable communication infrastructure is escalating. Conventional network technologies are reaching their limits, especially where real-time data utilization is crucial across diverse sectors like urban operations, traffic management, public services, and entertainment. NTT’s IOWN concept represents an innovative approach developed to address these challenges, aiming for the fusion of electrical and optical technologies, ultimately transitioning to an optical-centric communication paradigm. The deployment of IOWN in large-scale development projects like Yumeshima presents an excellent opportunity to showcase its technical superiority and practical utility on a global stage.

Strategic Significance & Outlook

The consideration of IOWN deployment in Yumeshima signifies a forward-looking step for Japan’s digital infrastructure. A successful implementation could establish a model for IOWN-based smart cities, accelerating its adoption in other regions domestically and internationally. The digital environment enabled by ultra-low latency and high capacity is expected to foster new industries, solve societal challenges, and enhance residents’ quality of life. NTT West is poised to demonstrate leadership in driving regional digital transformation through this initiative, setting a benchmark for future smart urban developments.

Source: https://integrated-resort.osaka/en/en-ntt-west-iown-yumeshima-development/

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