On September 24, 2026, Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) issued Notification No. 346, revising the "Terminal Equipment Regulations" (Ministerial Ordinance No. 31 of 1985). For certain IP telecom terminal devices that can remotely change communication settings over the network, relevant security requirements were added, including initial passwords, software security update mechanisms, interface and non-essential port management, and other requirements. Starting April 1, 2027, relevant devices must have software update mechanisms for communication functions and implement specific security measures (or equivalent measures) for device interfaces.

Click this link to view the original text of MIC Announcement No. 346, click this link to view the relevant interpretation of the MIC.

On May 29, 2025, Japan's Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications (MIC) issued amendments to Regulation No. 54 of 2025 to the Telecommunications Terminal Equipment Regulations. The amendment imposes emergency cross-carrier roaming requirements for Internet Protocol (IP) mobile phone terminals, such as smartphones, to enable users to temporarily access other carriers' networks in the event of an emergency. The amendment will enter into force on October 1, 2025. A two-year transition period applies to IP mobile phone terminals that meet any of the following criteria:

• Have obtained certification in accordance with technical standards or have submitted a self-confirmation of compliance with technical standards;
• Special circumstances that may be considered with the approval of the Minister of Internal Affairs and Communications.

Click on this link to view the original text of MIC Regulation No. 54 of 2025.