February 2026 Vol. 24 No. 2

Front-line Researchers

• Makio Kashino, NTT Fellow, Communication Science Laboratories, NTT, Inc.

  

  Abstract
  Top athletes are able to control their minds and bodies freely under extreme pressure in a way that delivers high performance. Scientifically explaining the underlying mechanisms in the brain and body that underpin this ability not only improves training methods used by athletes but also offers essential insights into how people in general can cope with adversity and improve their well-being. As an NTT Fellow at NTT Communication Science Laboratories and a leading researcher in cognitive neuroscience, Makio Kashino works closely with top athletes from a variety of sports while conducting original on-site measurements of tense and demanding competitions and has thus far uncovered a wealth of groundbreaking findings. In this interview, we asked him to describe his latest progress, share his thoughts on pioneering new research fields, and explain what he keeps in mind in his daily activities.

Rising Researchers

• Takayuki Kobayashi, Distinguished Researcher, Network Innovation Laboratories, NTT, Inc.

  

  Abstract
  The spread of the Internet and high-speed mobile services as well as the increasing performance of mobile devices have led to a rapid increase in communication traffic in Japan. NTT has been endeavoring to increase the capacity and distance of optical communication systems supporting its backbone networks. In preparation for the coming 6G (sixth-generation mobile communication system) era, even greater expansion of capacity of optical communications will be essential. The theoretical limits of the currently used digital coherent systems are beginning to appear. We spoke with Takayuki Kobayashi, a distinguished researcher at NTT Network Innovation Laboratories, a leader in coherent optical-amplifier-repeater technology that can achieve even greater capacity and distance.

Feature Articles: High-value-added Transmission Technologies through the Convergence of Optical and Wireless Technologies for IOWN/6G

• Innovation in Next-generation Network and Computing Infrastructure Driven by the Convergence of Optical and Wireless Technologies

  

  Abstract
  We at NTT Network Innovation Laboratories leverage world-leading communication technologies and networking technologies that maximize their potential to achieve dramatic improvements in communication performance and pioneer new application domains. We are advancing research and development aiming to create groundbreaking “world’s best” and “world’s first” achievements that transcend conventional wisdom and generate new value through societal implementation of those achievements. These technologies are discussed in this article.

• Ultra-wideband, High-capacity Inline-amplified Optical Transmission Using Extremely Long Wavelength Band (X-band)

  

  Abstract
  In fiber-optic transmission systems, advancements in digital-signal-processing technology have resulted in spectral efficiency close to its theoretical limit. To achieve further capacity growth, it is essential to expand the transmission bandwidth used for wavelength-division multiplexing. This article explains a wavelength-band conversion technology using an optical parametric amplifier based on a periodically poled lithium niobate waveguide and the development of an extremely long wavelength band (X-band), enabled by effective utilization of stimulated Raman scattering in optical fibers. It also describes an ultra-wideband, high-capacity transmission experiment involving a 27-THz-signal bandwidth over the S+C+L+U+X bands.

• Research and Development of Optical-network Digital-twin Technology for On-demand Optical Network Services

  

  Abstract
  The Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN) All-Photonics Network (APN) provides communication with ultra-large capacity, ultra-low latency, and ultra-low power consumption by transmitting optical signals without electrical signal conversion and is now expected to enable fully on-demand services. To achieve this, autonomous network operation is essential. NTT is working toward this goal by creating a digital twin of the optical network; the optical network is reconstructed in a virtual space to automate design, analysis, and control. This article introduces our efforts to support on-demand optical services, with a focus on the technology for automatic optical-path provisioning.

• Research and Development of Optical-wireless Integrated Transmission Technology for Providing Ultra-high-speed/capacity Communications in IOWN/6G

  

  Abstract
  NTT’s current research and development aims to implement innovative network and information-processing technologies by integrating sixth-generation mobile communications system (6G) networks with the Innovative Optical and Wireless Network (IOWN). This article introduces a photonics-assisted matrix radio beamformer, which is an initiative of NTT Network Innovation Laboratories for implementing IOWN/6G and will enable ultra-high-speed/capacity communications.

Global Standardization Activities

• From De Jure to De Facto: Reframing Standardization Strategies in an Implementation-driven Era

  

  Abstract
  Standardization in telecommunications is undergoing a profound transition from institution-driven de jure processes to implementation-led de facto models. Cloud-native architectures, the heightened impact of hyperscalers, and accelerating pace of technological evolution continue to restructure communication infrastructures. As we approach the 6G (sixth-generation mobile communications network) era, cross-industry collaboration and implementation capability will become indispensable strategic foundations. This article analyzes the driving forces behind this transformation and identifies emerging challenges for standardization.

Practical Field Information about Telecommunication Technologies

• Effectiveness of a Conduit-sealing Measure against Air Leakage from Conduit Sections

  

  Abstract
  This article introduces a measure for sealing the gap between an underground cable and conduit to prevent air leakage from conduit sections. The verification of the measure’s effectiveness in an on-site environment is also described.

External Awards/Papers Published in Technical Journals and Conference Proceedings

• External Awards/Papers Published in Technical Journals and Conference Proceedings