Evolution to LTE Report
July 28, 2014
Introduction Association. Any texts, images, layouts or other contents may not be copied or distributed, whole or in LTE – Long Term Evolution – is a global success. In part, without the written consent of GSA, except for this latest issue of “Evolution to LTE” report, GSA personal non-commercial use. For other purposes provides the current situation to the industry giving please contact the Secretariat by email to facts and analysis about the global status and growth [email protected] of mobile broadband enabled by LTE. This report is Please also see www.gsacom.com/disclaimer.php4 regularly updated and free to download by over 63,500 registered users of the GSA website. Information is provided about the LTE system, LTE Market Summary covering FDD and TDD modes, technical standards, GSA’s Evolution to LTE report – July 28, 2014 operator investments and commitments including 577 operators investing in LTE in 166 countries network deployments, studies, trials, commercial • 526 operator commitments in 155 countries launches, and regulatory developments, including • 51 pre-commitment trials in 11 more countries spectrum for LTE-enabled mobile broadband service network deployments. LTE is specified by 3GPP as a 318 commercially launched LTE networks single global standard for both paired and unpaired spectrum users. The vast majority of the standard is in 111 countries the same for LTE FDD and LTE TDD. Companies includes 39 LTE TDD (TD-LTE) networks in 26 countries from across the industry and globe contributed to standardization of both modes which has led to global GSA forecasts 350+ commercially launched scale and minimal market fragmentation, and is one LTE networks by end 2014 of the key reasons for LTE's growing success. The report also provides a status update on the LTE user 1,889 LTE user devices announced devices ecosystem, VoLTE, LTE-Advanced, LTE (July 14, 2014) roaming, LTE Broadcast, the APT700 band, global 245.4 million LTE subscriptions globally: Q1 2014 LTE subscriptions, and links to 5G resources. © GSA www.gsacom.com Information for the production of this report is obtained in several ways, including from regular LTE is the fastest developing mobile system information exchanges between GSA and network technology ever operators, with regulatory authorities, suppliers and other stakeholders globally. This is in addition to 51 LTE networks commercially launched consideration and analysis of Company statements in 2014 so far (2013 year end total = 267) including press releases and briefings, in order to confirm facts and ensure that this report reflects the true LTE mobile broadband market situation. LTE is a mainstream technology - the rapid Comments about the report and news/updates should expansion globally continues be sent to email [email protected] GSA provides additional complementary resources, GSA’s definition of commercial launch: including maps and charts, which can be downloaded The phase in which a public telecommunications operator at www.gsacom.com/news/statistics.php4 is carrying commercial traffic on its LTE network, or offers to provide public service. Only licensed operators with Selected charts and maps are also available as PDF spectrum assigned for use in public LTE communications files (for higher resolution). Related reports to view: networks are considered. MVNOs are not included. The •• Status of the LTE Ecosystem report LTE operator’s business model may be retail or wholesale. •• Status of the Global LTE TDD Market report Devices compatible for use on the LTE network may be sold direct by the operator to the customer, or via •• Status of the Global LTE1800 Market report This report and all related materials and resources distributors, resellers or other third parties, or already be owned by persons wishing to use the service. are copyright of the GSA, Global mobile Suppliers
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Evolution to LTE Report
July 28, 2014
commercially launched LTE networks in Japan Softbank Mobile XGP/LTE TDD later FDD 24.02.12 318 Portugal Meo 12.03.12 111 countries © GSA – Global mobile Suppliers Association Portugal Vodafone 12.03.12 Country Operator Launch Portugal Nos 15.03.12 Norway TeliaSonera (NetCom) 14.12.09 Japan eAccess 15.03.12 Sweden TeliaSonera 14.12.09 USA US Cellular 22.03.12 Uzbekistan UCell 09.08.10 Croatia T Mobile/T-Hrvatski Telekom 23.03.12 Poland Aero2 (LTE FDD and TDD) 07.09.10 Croatia VIPNet 23.03.12 USA T Mobile US 21.09.10 USA Panhandle (PTCI) 03.2012 Austria A1 Telekom 05.11.10 Australia NBN Co (LTE TDD) 02.04.12 Sweden Telenor Sweden 15.11.10 India Bharti Airtel (LTE TDD) 10.04.12 Sweden Tele2 Sweden 15.11.10 Angola Movicel 14.04.12 Hong Kong CSL Limited 25.11.10 Puerto Rico Open Mobile 19.04.12 Finland TeliaSonera 30.11.10 Moldova IDC 21.04.12 Germany Vodafone 01.12.10 Sweden 3 (LTE FDD and TDD) 23.04.12 USA Verizon Wireless 05.12.10 Hong Kong CM HK (LTE FDD later TDD) 25.04.12 Finland Elisa 08.12.10 Hong Kong PCCW-HKT 25.04.12 Denmark TeliaSonera 09.12.10 USA Cellcom 30.04.12 Estonia EMT 17.12.10 USA Pioneer Cellular 30.04.12 Japan NTT DoCoMo 24.12.10 Netherlands Vodafone 01.05.12 Germany Deutsche Telekom 05.04.11 Hong Kong 3 HK 02.05.12 Philippines Smart Communications 16.04.11 Netherlands Ziggo 03.05.12 Lithuania Omnitel 28.04.11 Netherlands Tele2 08.05.12 Latvia LMT 31.05.11 Netherlands KPN 11.05.12 Singapore M1 21.06.11 Netherlands T-Mobile 11.05.12 South Korea SK Telecom 01.07.11 Namibia MTC 16.05.12 South Korea LG U+ 01.07.11 USA BendBroadband 17.05.12 Germany O2 01.07.11 Tanzania Smile 30.05.12 Canada Rogers Wireless 07.07.11 UAE Du 12.06.12 Austria T-Mobile 28.07.11 Colombia Une-UPM 14.06.12 USA Mosaic Telecom 07. 2011 Azerbaijan Azercell 19.06.12 Canada Bell Mobility 14.09.11 Czech Rep O2 Czech Republic 19.06.12 Saudi Arabia Mobily (LTE TDD) later FDD 14.09.11 Mauritius Orange 21.06.12 Saudi Arabia STC (LTE TDD) later FDD 14.09.11 UK UK Broadband (LTE TDD) 28.06.12 Saudi Arabia Zain 14.09.11 Guam IT&E 28.06.12 USA AT&T Mobility 18.09.11 Hungary Telenor Hungary 05.07.12 UAE Etisalat 25.09.11 Dominican R. Orange Dominicana 09.07.12 Australia Telstra 27.09.11 Slovenia Si.mobil 12.07.12 Denmark TDC 10.10.11 USA Sprint LTE FDD later TDD 15.07.12 Austria 3 18.11.11 Oman Omantel LTE TDD later FDD 16.07.12 Puerto Rico AT&T Mobility 20.11.11 USA Infrastructure Networks 25.07.12 Puerto Rico Claro 24.11.11 Australia Optus FDD – later TDD 31.07.12 Kyrgyzstan Saima Telecom 09.12.11 Mauritius Emtel July 2012 Brazil Sky Brazil (LTE TDD) 13.12.11 Slovak Rep O2 Slovakia 02.08.12 Finland DNA 13.12.11 USA Big River Broadband 07.08.12 Uruguay Antel 13.12.11 Hong Kong Smartone 28.08.12 USA Cricket 21.12.11 Poland Polkomtel Plus Sept 2012 Singapore SingTel 22.12.11 USA Chariton Valley Sept 2012 Kuwait Viva 27.12.11 USA Nortex Communications Sept 2012 Armenia Vivacell-MTS 28.12.11 Russia MTS LTE TDD later FDD 01.09.12 Bahrain Viva 01.01.12 USA C Spire Wireless 10.09.12 Hungary T-Mobile (MT) 01.01.12 Singapore StarHub 19.09.12 South Korea KT 03.01.12 Japan KDDI 21.09.12 Russia *Megafon/Yota FDD and TDD 15.01.12 Japan Softbank Mobile 21.09.12 Canada TELUS 10.02.12 Canada MTS 25.09.12 USA Peoples Telephone Co-op 14.02.12 Denmark 3 Denmark 28.09.12 Philippines Globe 28.09.12
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Luxembourg Tango 01.10.12 Denmark Telenor 20.03.13 Guam DoCoMo Pacific 04.10.12 Guam iConnect 20.03.13 Tajikistan Babilon-Mobile 06.10.12 Slovenia Telekom Slovenije 20.03.13 Norway Telenor 10.10.12 Iceland Nova 04.04.13 South Africa Vodacom 10.10.12 USA United Wireless 09.04.13 USA Alaska Communications 12.10.12 Qatar Ooredoo 16.04.13 Mexico Telefonica Movistar 15.10.12 USVI Sprint 17.04.13 Luxembourg Orange 29.10.12 Bahrain Zain 18.04.13 UK EE 30.10.12 South Africa Telkom Mobile / 8ta (LTE TDD) 21.04.13 Uganda Smile Oct 2012 Malaysia Celcom Axiata 22.04.13 Belgium Belgacom / Proximus 05.11.12 Uganda MTN Uganda (LTE TDD) 25.04.13 USA Bluegrass Cellular 05.11.12 Brazil Oi 25.04.13 Antigua-Barb Digicel 06.11.12 Maldives Ooredoo 28.04.13 Mexico Telcel 06.11.12 Romania Cosmote 29.04.13 Italy Vodafone 06.11.12 Brazil TIM Brasil 30.04.13 Italy TIM 07.11.12 Brazil Vivo 30.04.13 Montenegro Telenor 08.11.12 USA Adams NetWorks 05.2013 USA Sprocket Wireless 09.11.12 France Bouygues Telecom 06.05.13 Greece Cosmote 16.11.12 Thailand True Move 08.05.13 Moldova Moldcell 16.11.12 USA NorthwestCell 13.05.13 USA Strata Networks 19.11.12 Lebanon Alfa 15.05.13 Moldova Orange Moldova 20.11.12 USA PVT/Fuego Wireless 17.05.13 Romania Vodafone 20.11.12 Lebanon Touch 22.05.13 Kuwait Zain 21.11.12 USA Chat Mobility 23.05.13 France Orange 22.11.12 Switzerland Orange 26.05.13 USA Shentel 23.11.12 Russia Vimpelcom 27.05.13 Estonia Tele2 27.11.12 Spain Vodafone 29.05.13 France SFR 28.11.12 Spain Neo-Sky LTE TDD 06.2013 Switzerland Swisscom 29.11.12 Russia Rostelecom 03.06.13 South Africa MTN 01.12.12 Nigeria Smile Communications 06.06.13 Romania Orange 12.12.12 Iraq Fastlink (Regional Telecom) 10.06.13 Brazil Claro 13.12.12 USA Appalachian Wireless 10.06.13 Angola Unitel 16.12.12 Australia Vodafone 12.06.13 Bolivia Entel Movil 16.12.12 Switzerland Sunrise Communications 19.06.13 Greece Vodafone 17.12.12 Chile Claro 27.06.13 Puerto Rico Sprint Nextel 18.12.12 USA MTA mid-2013 Kazakhstan Altel 25.12.12 USVI AT&T Mobility 02.07.13 Sri Lanka Dialog LTE TDD later FDD 30.12.12 Iceland Fjarskipti (Vodafone) 04.07.13 Sri Lanka Mobitel 31.12.12 Malaysia DiGi 05.07.13 USA GCI 2013 Spain Orange 08.07.13 Malaysia Maxis 01.01.13 Kuwait Ooredoo 09.07.13 USA Thumb Cellular 13.01.13 Puerto Rico T Mobile 11.07.13 Canada Sasktel LTE FDD later TDD 31.01.13 Spain Yoigo 18.07.13 USA Evolve Broadband 02.13 USA Custer Telephone 26.07.13 Italy 3 Italia 01.02.13 Uganda Orange 31.07.13 Paraguay Personal 08.02.13 Venezuela Digitel 31.07.13 Estonia Elisa 14.02.13 USA ETC 08.13 Canada Eastlink 15.02.13 Nigeria Spectranet (LTE TDD) 20.08.13 Oman Ooredoo 17.02.13 South Africa Neotel 21.08.13 Paraguay Vox 18.02.13 Zimbabwe Econet Wireless 22.08.13 Bahrain Batelco 27.02.13 UK O2 29.08.13 New Zealand Vodafone 28.02.13 UK Vodafone 29.08.13 Brazil On (LTE TDD) 03.13 Kiribati TSKL 02.09.13 Lithuania Tele2 03.13 Liechtenstein Orange 02.09.13 Spain COTA (Murcia4G) (LTE TDD) 01.03.13 Russia Vainakh Telecom (LTE TDD) 03.09.13 USA MiSpot 14.03.13 Poland Orange Polska 10.09.13 Dominican R. Tricom 18.03.13 Turkmenistan TMCELL 18.09.13
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Ireland Meteor 26.09.13 Germany E Plus 06.03.14 USA Copper Valley Telecom 30.09.13 China China Unicom (LTE TDD) 18.03.14 Belgium BASE 01.10.13 Papua New Guinea Digicel PNG 26.03.14 Czech Rep T Mobile 01.10.13 Chile Entel PCS 28.03.14 Monaco Monaco Telecom 01.10.13 Belgium Mobistar 31.03.14 Luxembourg POST 10.13 Madagascar Blueline (LTE TDD) 04.14 Spain Movistar 10.13 Costa Rica Claro 01.04.14 USA Syringa Wireless 10.13 Vanuatu WanTok (LTE TDD) 01.04.14 Guam GTA 11.10.13 Côte d'Ivoire YooMee (LTE TDD) 04.04.14 Ireland Vodafone 14.10.13 Tajikistan Tcell 15.04.14 Bhutan Bhutan Telecom 24.10.13 Belgium b•lite (LTE TDD) 22.04.14 Nigeria Swift Networks (LTE TDD) 11.13 Canada ABC Communications (LTE TDD) 23.04.14 Malta Vodafone 01.11.13 Philippines PLDT (LTE TDD) 29.04.14 Aruba Setar NV 06.11.13 Algeria Algérie Télécom 01.05.14 New Zealand Telecom NZ 12.11.13 Norway Tele2 01.05.14 Poland Play 13.11.13 USA KPU (Alaska) 05.05.14 Chile Movistar 14.11.13 Kyrgyzstan O! 08.05.14 Indonesia PT Internux (LTE TDD) 14.11.13 Thailand DTAC 10.05.14 Brunei DST 15.11.13 Bulgaria Max 20.05.14 Slovak Rep Slovak Telecom 15.11.13 Peru Claro 21.05.14 USA S and R Communications 17.11.13 Taiwan Chunghwa Telecom 29.05.14 Bahrain Menatelecom (LTE TDD) 19.11.13 Qatar Vodafone 03.06.14 Costa Rica ICE 25.11.13 Taiwan FarEasTone 03.06.14 Namibia TN Mobile 27.11.13 Taiwan Taiwan Mobile 04.06.14 USA Nex-Tech Wireless 27.11.13 Abkhazia A-Mobile 04.06.14 Montenegro Crnogorski Telekom 28.11.13 Poland T-Mobile Polska S.A 05.06.14 Cayman Isles Digicel 28.11.13 Brazil Nextel 16.06.14 Cayman Isles LIME 29.11.13 Russia Tattelecom 27.06.14 France Free 01.12.13 New Zealand 2degrees 30.06.14 Greenland Tele-Post 01.12.13 USA VTel 01.07.14 Colombia Movistar 02.12.13 Macedonia Vip 02.07.14 Colombia Tigo 02.12.13 Costa Rica Movistar 04.07.14 Macedonia T Mobile 02.12.13 Slovak Rep Orange Slovensko 07.07.14 UK 3 UK 02.12.13 NMI IT&E 14.07.14 Fiji Vodafone Fiji 05.12.13 Israel Partner – Orange 15.07.14 USA Mid-Rivers Communications 09.12.13 India Aircel (LTE TDD) 16.07.14 Czech Rep Vodafone 10.12.13 Bolivia Tigo 17.07.14 Malaysia U Mobile 17.12.13 Dominican R. Claro 17.07.14 China China Mobile (LTE TDD) 18.12.13 Bahamas BTC 12.13 * Includes Yota which was acquired by Megafon Ecuador CNT EP 12.13 © GSA – Global mobile Suppliers Association www.gsacom.com Latvia Tele2 12.13 USA Colorado Valley 12.13 USA nTelos Wireless 12.13 The drive towards LTE and LTE- Ghana Vodafone 02.01.14 Advanced for operators is more Peru Telefonica Movistar 02.01.14 capacity, performance management Italy Wind 12.01.14 and improved efficiencies to lower Iceland Siminn 15.01.14 Zambia MTN 16.01.14 delivery cost. LTE is a big step in the Sri Lanka SLT (LTE TDD) 19.01.14 user experience, enhancing demanding apps such as Zambia Zamtel 21.01.14 interactive TV, video blogging, advanced gaming, and Cambodia Smart Axiata 22.01.14 professional services. LTE is a full IP network and Ireland 3 Ireland 27.01.14 harmonizes with other radio access technologies and Sri Lanka Lanka Bell (LTE TDD) 04.02.14 is the natural evolution choice for GSM/HSPA, CDMA Colombia Claro 13.02.14 and WiMAX™ operators, enabling a single unifying Uruguay Claro 13.02.14 global standard supporting with TDD & FDD modes. China China Telecom (LTE TDD) 14.02.14
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Spectrum for LTE deployments Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) to support all access technologies, including fixed access. This allows: Pressure for spectrum is high. Operators should deploy the most efficient technologies, using paired ! Improvements in latency, capacity, throughput spectrum where available. LTE can be deployed in ! Simplification of the core network, and optimization existing 2G or 3G bands and in new bands e.g. 2.6 for IP traffic, services, and growth GHz or digital dividend spectrum (700/800 MHz) for ! Simplified support and handover to non-3GPP greater geographical coverage and improved in- access technologies building performance. The resulting evolved packet system comprizes the core network, evolved packet core (EPC) and radio The capacity band is 2.6 GHz in most regions. network. The whole system is often called LTE.
There is high interest in refarming 2G spectrum for Category 4 (Cat 4) is a popular evolutionary step, LTE. Most regulators adopted a technology-neutral enabling 150 Mbps peak downlink data throughput by approach. 1800 MHz is the mainstream choice for allocating 20 MHz of LTE transmission bandwidth. LTE deployments in most regions. Several Cat 4 networks are listed in this report.
700 MHz (bands 12, 13, 14 and 17) and 800 MHz LTE FDD and TDD modes have a clear evolution (band 20) are firmly established, according to region, towards LTE-Advanced standardized in 3GPP as the main LTE mobile broadband deployment Release 10 onwards. Many operators have deployed bands as the digital dividend enabled by migration of LTE-Advanced features, initially carrier aggregation, TV broadcasters from analogue to digital as shown in this report. Deployment of LTE- transmission. Adoption of the APT700 MHz band plan Advanced is a main trend in 2014. The introduction of by several countries across the APAC and Latin voice services for LTE users by deploying VoLTE has America regions represents a newer and major gained significant traction. opportunity for global spectrum harmonization for LTE deployments, paving the way for ensuring the Commercialization of LTE Broadcast, enabled by greatest economies of scale for devices and capacity eMBMS technology, will progress in 2014. Several for mobile broadband services, and for roaming. The trials have been completed as shown in this report. FDD plan configuration (band 28) has attracted the most support. Several mobile networks using APT700 LTE TDD (TD-LTE) systems band 28 are commercially launched – see related section in this report. This is the first time that a LTE is an open standard developed by 3GPP. The technology in one band is available almost globally. advanced technological performance of LTE came with in-built flexibility to operate in either paired (FDD, GSA is not aware of any country or regulator or Frequency Division Duplexing, mode) or unpaired anywhere in the world firmly adopting or (TDD, or Time Division Duplexing mode) spectrum recommending allocation of spectrum according to and various channel bandwidths – all with a single the Band 44 (TDD) arrangement. technology. Companies from around the globe contributed to the LTE standard and its evolution. The LTE radio network products incorporate several emphasis was always to leverage synergies between features to simplify building and management of next- the two duplex modes to the largest extent possible. generation networks. Plug-and-play, self- This allows operators to best utilize their current configuration and self-optimization simplify and network assets, spectrum allocations and various reduce network rollout and management cost. LTE is bandwidth needs, while securing support, choice and being deployed alongside simplified, IP-based core economies of scale from the global vendor and transport networks that are easier to build, ecosystem, and limit potential market fragmentation. maintain and introduce services on. The 3GPP core The result is major commonality of the LTE network has also undergone System Architecture specifications for the FDD and TDD modes – in fact Evolution, optimized for packet mode and the IP- the vast majority of the LTE standard is identical for both modes, and the huge global success of LTE.
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Most current LTE deployments use paired spectrum Verizon Wireless commercially launched LTE using (FDD). The LTE TDD mode is complementary and 700 MHz (band 13) on December 5, 2010. LTE is the perfect choice for providing high-speed mobile available to over 97% of the population (nearly 305 broadband access in unpaired spectrum. LTE TDD million people) in over 500 markets (April 2014). also provides a future-proof evolutionary path for TD- Verizon is also deploying LTE using AWS spectrum SCDMA, another 3GPP standard, as widely deployed and on May 19, 2014 announced its launch, branded in China. LTE TDD is an integral part of the 3GPP as “XLTE”. Compatible user devices (said to be 28 standard, implementing a maximum of commonalities products at launch) select either 700 MHz or AWS with LTE FDD and offering comparable performance spectrum where available. Verizon plans to deploy characteristics and similar high spectral efficiency. VoLTE in 2014, and also key LTE-Advanced features. In July 2014 Verizon announced plans to partner with Recommended reading: THE LTE STANDARD Qualcomm and Ericsson on a trial of supplemental LTE downlink in 3.5 GHz spectrum. White Paper by Signals Research Group (SRG) • Available for registered site users to download: Through its “LTE in Rural America” program Verizon follow the link on http://www.gsacom.com works with partners to collaboratively build and operate an LTE network that covers over 2.6 million Within globally assigned IMT bands for mobile people in rural communities over 82,000 square miles services, significant resources are suitable for LTE by sharing its 700 MHz Upper C block spectrum. The TDD. The largest contiguous bands are 2.3 GHz (100 “LTE in Rural America” participants include: MHz) and within the 2.6 GHz band (50 MHz according to the CEPT band plan). There are also • many deployments progressing or planned using 3.5 Appalachian Wireless – Kentucky GHz (bands 42/43), which has significant future • Bluegrass Cellular - Kentucky potential for LTE. LTE TDD can exploit global • Cellcom – Wisconsin and Michigan economies of scale similar to LTE FDD, with a short • Chariton Valley – Missouri time to market as a mainstream technology, and is an • Chat Mobility - Iowa ideal path for WiMAX™ operators to grow their • Carolina West Wireless - North Carolina business, which many are embracing. LTE TDD • Convergence Technologies – Indiana operator commitments, system maturity and status of • Copper Valley Telecom - Alaska the devices eco-system are covered in this report. • Cross Telephone - Oklahoma • Custer Telephone Cooperative – Idaho • KPU - Alaska LTE networks, developments global round-up • Matanuska Telephone Association – Alaska • Mid-Rivers Communications - Montana • MTPCS – Montana, Louisiana, Texas Americas • NorthwestCell – Missouri • Pioneer Cellular – Oklahoma • Sagebrush Cellular (Nemont) – Dakota, USA Montana • S and R Communications - Indiana On September 21, 2010 regional carrier MetroPCS • Strata Networks – Utah became the first operator in the USA to launch LTE. • Thumb Cellular - Michigan MetroPCS offered the world’s first commercially available LTE handset, the Samsung Craft™. Service Pioneer Cellular launched commercial LTE service was launched in Las Vegas, extended to Dallas/Forth on April 30, 2012. Cellcom launched commercial LTE Worth, Detroit, Boston, Sacramento and New York. service on April 30, 2012 in Green Bay, Sturgeon The Samsung SCH-R900/Craft was also the first Bay, Appleton, Oshkosh, Wausau, Oconto and multi-mode CDMA-LTE handset. LTE network Marinette Counties. Chariton Valley commercially expansion continues. MetroPCS has merged with T launched LTE service for CPEs and personal Mobile USA (known as T Mobile US – see below). hotspots in September 2012. Bluegrass Cellular
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launched commercial LTE service on November 5, for LTE. VoLTE was commercially launched on May 2012 covering 348,000 population. Build out is 23, 2014 in Illinois, Indiana, Minnesota and planned to be completed by end 2015. By Q2 2014 Wisconsin. AT&T launched LTE-Advanced in Bluegrass covered 80.7% service area coverage, Chicago in March 2014, using carrier aggregation of equivalent to over 620,000 population coverage. 700 MHz and AWS spectrum. Sprocket Wireless (brand of Cross Telephone) commercially launched its first phase of 4G LTE In December 2013 AT&T announced launch of LTE service including portions of the Muskogee and roaming with Rogers Communications (Canada) Pittsburg counties in Eastern Oklahoma on November and EE (UK). Another 13 countries were offered from 9th, 2012. Strata Networks launched commercial February 2014. service on November 19, 2012. Thumb Cellular commercially launched 700 MHz LTE service on T-Mobile USA commercially launched LTE on March January 13, 2013. KPU Telecommunications 26, 2013 in AWS spectrum. By mid-2014 coverage (Alaska) i.e. Ketchikan Public Utilities leases a 22 reached 230 million people nationwide. With the MHz block from Verizon Wireless and commercial MetroPCS merger completed the new single launched its LTE network for data users on May 5 th, company is trading as T Mobile US. MetroPCS 2014. KPU plans to launch VoLTE in February 2015. continues in the market as a brand operated by T Chat Mobility commercially launched LTE service on Mobile US. VoLTE was commercially launched with May 23, 2013. Appalachian Wireless commercially HD voice on May 22, 2014 initially in Seattle. T launched its LTE service on June 10, 2013. Mobile US is planning to increase the bandwidth for Matanuska Telephone Association (MTA) LTE service, allocating different amounts in different commercially launched LTE service in mid-2013. markets. Spectrum totaling 20 MHz paired was Custer Telephone Cooperative launched deployed in parts of North Dallas in late 2013. T- commercial 4G LTE service on July 26, 2013. Mobile has announced plans to re-use most of the Copper Valley Telecom launched commercial spectrum used in its EDGE network for LTE by mid service on September 30, 2013 in Valdez, Prince 2015. In addition, the company plans to deploy LTE in William Sound, and Cordova. S and R 700 MHz A block spectrum that is being acquired Communications commercially launched in Indiana from Verizon Wireless. on November 17, 2013. Mid-Rivers Communications commercially launched LTE MiSpot, a subsidiary of Agri-Valley service on December 9, 2013 in 12 communities Communication, commercially launched 700 MHz across the eastern half of Montana. NorthwestCell LTE service on March 14, 2013 in 37 counties in launched on May 13, 2013. northern and central Michigan.
Carolina West Wireless began LTE network Adams NetWorks (western Illinois) commercially deployment in early 2014. launched a fixed broadband LTE network using band 17 C block spectrum in May 2013. AT&T Mobility commercially launched LTE service on September 18, 2011 in 700 MHz (band 17) in Big River Broadband serving southeast Missouri Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. region commercially launched its LTE network using The LTE network covers nearly 290 million people AWS spectrum on August 7, 2012. (company website, July 2014). AT&T plans to close its GSM network by 2017 latest, to re-farm the Aircell aims to use LTE to boost its in-flight network spectrum to support its 3G and 4G networks. 1900 capacity if sufficient spectrum is obtained. MHz band 2 spectrum was introduced in some regions since by end 2013. In January 2013 AT&T Bay Area Regional Interoperable Communications announced plans to pay Verizon Wireless the sum of System (BayRICS) vision was established by the 10 US$ 1.9 billion for 700 MHz B band spectrum Bay Area Counties and 3 core cities, San Francisco, covering 42 million people in 18 states, plus AWS Oakland, and San Jose in 2006 through the creation spectrum in markets including Phoenix, Los Angeles, of a strategic plan with the goal of providing voice and Fresno, and Portland. All of this spectrum will be used data interoperability throughout the Bay Area region.
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BayRICS is a state of the art communications its acquisition of Leap Wireless and is in the process system-of-systems. Bay Area Wireless Enhanced of integrating Cricket into AT&T's operations. The Broadband (BayWEB) is the broadband component new Cricket will be an independently operated, wholly of BayRICS which has acquired 700 MHz in which an owned subsidiary of AT&T. LTE-based public safety system is intended to be deployed. In April 2011, the first public-safety LTE Syringa Wireless (Eastern Idaho) commercially pilot network in the San Francisco Bay Area was launched LTE service in October 2013. tested. These tests were commissioned by the East Bay Communications System Authority, which CDMA operator Alaska Communications (ACS) oversaw the pilot LTE network deployment. commercially launched 4G/LTE service in AWS spectrum on October 12, 2012 in Anchorage, BendBroadband announced on May 17, 2012 that Fairbanks and Juneau. the company had upgraded its network, making it the first carrier in Central Oregon to offer commercial LTE Alaska Communications and General service. BendBroadband is now selling its 700 MHz Communication, Inc. (GCI) announced on July 23, Block B and AWS spectrum to AT&T to exit the 2013 that the companies had completed the wireless market. BendBroadband has advised its transaction to form The Alaska Wireless Network, customers that this will be no later than July 25, 2014. LLC (“AWN”). AWN provides the latest wireless services, including LTE, to its owners, Alaska Carolina West is deploying an LTE network. Communications and GCI, who will independently sell these services to their respective retail customers and C Spire Wireless holds 700 MHz band 12 spectrum continue to operate as competitors in Alaska. for most of Mississippi, Tennessee and Alabama and commercially launched LTE service on September CDMA operator Nex-Tech Wireless commercially 10, 2012 in McComb, Brookhaven, Meridian and launched LTE on November 27, 2013 using 700 MHz Greenville. Due to limited device support for band 12, B Block spectrum (band 12) acquired in May 2012. C Spire currently uses band 25 (1850 – 1915 / 1930 - 1995 MHz) for LTE. VoLTE is planned. Sprint commercially launched LTE FDD service on July 15, 2012 in 10 MHz of existing 1900 MHz CenturyLink plans to deploy LTE in 700 MHz, after spectrum (band 25) in 15 cities: Atlanta, Athens, spending USD 149 million in the 700 MHz auction on Calhoun, Carrollton, Newnan and Rome, Ga.; Dallas, 69 A and B block concessions. Fort Worth, Granbury-Hood County, Houston, Huntsville, San Antonio and Waco, Texas; and St. Colorado Valley Communications (Texas), a Joseph and Kansas City, Mo.. Following its buyout of member of the NetAmerica Alliance, commercially Clearwire, Sprint additionally commercially launched launched LTE service in 700 MHz band 12 spectrum LTE TDD service in band 41 on July 19, 2013. As of in December 2013 in Ellinger, Fayetteville, Flatonia, June, 2014, Sprint offered LTE service in 471 U.S. La Grange, Schulenburg and Weimar. markets. Sprint stopped selling WiMAX™ service after 2012 and is deploying LTE-Advanced Enhanced Telecommunications Corporation technology in 800 MHz (ESMR/iDEN spectrum) from (ETC) commercially launched 4G LTE using 700 MHz 2013 using 3GPP Release 10 in a 10x10 in August 2013, initially serving Decatur and Ripley configuration. iDEN service was closed in 2013. The counties. Coverage now includes Jefferson, Sprint Spark tri-band service (bands 25, 26, and 41), Jennings, Ohio, Scott and Switzerland counties. using LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation, was launched on March 17, 2014, initially in 18 markets, Leap Wireless' Cricket subsidiary commercially and now serves 27 markets (June 2014). VoLTE is in launched LTE on December 21, 2011 in Tucson in deployment; timescale not announced. In early 2014 AWS spectrum. On July 12, 2013 AT&T Mobility it was reported that Sprint, together with its announced plans to acquire Leap Wireless. FCC infrastructure vendor, had demonstrated 2.6 Gbps approval was secured in March 2014. On March 13, throughput over a single sector by aggregating 120 2014 AT&T announced that the company had closed MHz of TDD spectrum.
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Softbank (Japan) is proceeding to buy 70% of Sprint fixed wireless LTE TDD service using a portion of Nextel for $20.1bn, and has secured the necessary nTelos band 41 spectrum. regulatory and shareholder approvals. In March 2012 the FCC issued a Notice of Proposed Shenandoah Telecommunications (Shentel) is an Rulemaking for stand-alone terrestrial services using affiliate of Sprint having access to the latter’s 800 and 2 GHz MSS spectrum. If the waiver is allowed, LTE- 1900 MHz spectrum in return for building a Advanced service is not anticipated before 2016. compatible LTE network. Shentel launched commercial LTE service on November 23, 2012 in Illinois Valley Cellular is preparing to launch LTE Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia. service, understood to be in band 12, for the In May 2013 the company confirmed that LTE 250,000+ population in its service area, via a coverage had reached 75% of its network footprint. partnership with a network host provider.
As part of a $32.1 million stimulus grant, Commnet Greenfield operator Lightsquared planned to deploy Wireless, LLC (subsidiary of Atlantic Tele-Network the first US wholesale-only LTE network, and Inc.) will develop and operate an LTE network in the selected its infrastructure supplier for deployment Navajo Nation. The grant, plus partial matching funds, using 46 MHz in the range 1.4 to 1.6 GHz (mostly in will provide broadband infrastructure access to the L-Band). However the company must work through Navajo Nation across Arizona, New Mexico and Utah, major regulatory obstacles because the FCC ruled enabling fixed and mobile service for over 30,000 that its proposed operating frequency interferes with households (c.135,000 people) and 1,000 businesses GPS and aircraft flight safety systems. Lightsquared in 15 of the largest communities in the Navajo Nation, filed for bankruptcy in May 2012 in order to try to including Window Rock, Shiprock, Kayenta, Chinle, continue operations, and has control over its Chapter and Tuba City. The project will also provide high- 11 status as the company continues its reorganization capacity connectivity on the combined middle-mile efforts and tries to emerge from bankruptcy. backbone to 49 more tribal communities. Atlantic Tele-Network is the subject of a takeover proposal by Rural CDMA operator Mosaic Telecom (NW AT&T Mobility announced in early 2013. Wisconsin) holds 700 MHz and AWS spectrum and commercially launched LTE service in July 2011. Satellite TV provider DISH Network applied to the FCC in August 2011 for approval to deploy LTE- NetAmerica Alliance LLC aims to help bring LTE Advanced in S-band Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) mobile broadband services to 700 MHz and AWS spectrum bought from TerreStar, added to spectrum spectrum holders for consumers and businesses in acquired from the purchase of satellite company smaller markets and rural areas. NetAmerica joins DBSD North America, for a total of 40 MHz (2000- forces with rural independent license holders 2020 MHz and 2180-2200 MHz). This spectrum is deploying new converged 4G mobile/fixed networks now known as AWS-4. FCC granted formal approval and provide them with business and network services to DISH on December 11, 2012 subject to specific including combined buying power, nationwide power level restrictions to avoid interference to the branding, 24x7 network monitoring, core networking adjacent AWS-H spectrum. AWS-H spectrum elements, apps development and other key services. comprises 1915 – 1920 MHz (uplink) and 1995 – www.netAmericaAlliance.com 2000 MHz (downlink), and is adjacent to the PCS-G spectrum occupied by Sprint. Network operators Etex Telephone Cooperative, Panhandle Telephone Cooperative, Peoples DISH acquired all 176 H block licences auctioned Telephone Cooperative, and S&T Telephone (known as Auction 96) by the FCC at end February Cooperative/Communications are committed to 2014 after more than a month of bidding. LTE network deployments and joined NetAmerica Alliance. On October 26, 2011, NetAmerica Alliance DISH Network and Sprint wholesale partner nTelos announced a live LTE pilot network. NetAmerica Wireless are understood to be planning to launch a Alliance members use the pilot network to develop, test and refine operating methodologies prior to turn-
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up of commercial service. Flat Wireless, LLC, doing WiMAX™ operator SpeedConnect is deploying LTE- business as Clear Talk, provides wireless capable infrastructure in Michigan. telecommunication services in West Texas, also joined the Alliance. In 2013 the company bought 10 Infrastructure Networks, a Houston-based provider lower 700 MHz B-block licenses from Verizon of broadband wireless networks to critical Wireless. infrastructure industries, announced commercial launch of LTE service in the Permian Basin area of Peoples Telephone Cooperative commercially West Texas on July 25, 2012 using 700 MHz. launched LTE in rural Texas on February 14, 2012 replacing its WiMAX™ offer with LTE in 700 MHz. Texas Energy Network (TEN) committed to deploy an LTE network targeting the oil and gas industries Panhandle (PTCI) owns spectrum in 6 counties beginning with the Eagle Ford Shale region. covering 45,000 people, 20,000 households and extending 7,500 square miles. PTCI commercially Evolve Broadband (Texas) commercially launched launched LTE in March 2012 in rural Oklahoma. The LTE in 700 MHz band 17 in February 2013, which network consisted of 45 towers covering 5,000 was extended to 35% coverage area by March 2014. square miles and 30,000 population covered. CDMA operator United Wireless commercially Buggs Island Telephone Cooperative joined launched BWA LTE service using 700 MHz band 12 NetAmerica Alliance on January 6, 2014 and is on April 9, 2013. Support for LTE mobile phones was deploying an LTE network using 700 MHz C band. introduced on May 12, 2014.
Immix Wireless, which operates in Pennsylvania, is US Cellular in partnership with King Street Wireless building an LTE network in 700 MHz spectrum. commercially launched 700 MHz LTE on March 22, 2012 in selected cities in Iowa, Maine, North Carolina, Union Wireless, serving Wyoming and adjacent Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin. 133 markets were areas of northwest Colorado and northeast Utah, is targeted by end 2013. VoLTE is in deployment. building an LTE network. VTel Wireless commercially launched LTE in rural O2 Secure Wireless, an Internet communications Vermont on July 1, 2014. 700 MHz (band 17) and company, has embarked on phase one of its LTE AWS (band 4) are used. Spectrum owned within BRS network strategy. The company plans to provide band 41 (2496 MHz - 2690 MHz) will be used later. coverage to over 500,000 customers in under-served VTel Wireless says it is the first 4G/LTE-only network or unserved markets in Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, in the USA. Vtel is also deploying VoLTE. By mid- Alabama, North Carolina, and South Carolina. 2015, VTel expects to cover 95% of Vermont households with 180 sites. Public Service Wireless is deploying a 700 MHz LTE network in central and southwest Georgia. West Central Wireless, subsidiary of Central Texas Telephone Cooperative, is deploying LTE. The SRT Communications (North Dakota) is committed company also uses LTE for fixed wireless services to introducing LTE service and has selected its using 700 MHz, though not used by its mobile technology partners. subscribers, but will be offered on a wholesale basis to other carriers. Nortex Communications commercially launched LTE using 700 MHz band 17 in September 2012 in a US CDMA regional operator Penasco Valley two county area of Texas. Telecommunications (PVT) commercially launched LTE under the Fuego Wireless brand using 700 MHz South Georgia Regional Information Technology band 12 spectrum on May 17, 2013. Authority is deploying a 700MHz LTE system. CDMA operator nTelos Wireless, which serves Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia,
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and West Virginia launched commercial LTE service proposals (RFP) for industry-funded, LTE public in selected areas using band 2 spectrum in late safety broadband network proof-of-concept December 2013. Rollout is continuing in 2014. nTelos demonstrations (LTE PSBND), which will be used to Wireless also owns spectrum in band 41. Sprint and educate public safety and officials at the federal, nTelos have a network sharing agreement until 2022. state, county, local, and tribal levels about LTE statewide public safety wireless communications On September 10, 2013 IDEN™ operator systems. Proposals were requested by June 19, with SouthernLINC announced plans to build a regional Iowa state planning to award a contract running from network for Southern Company electric utilities. July 1, 2012 until June 30, 2013. Construction will start in 2015 and the network should The FCC adopted revised rules to enable Wireless be fully operational by 2018. Communications Service (WCS) licensees' to use up to 30 MHz of underutilized 2.3 GHz spectrum for On January 25, 2011 the FCC mandated LTE for first wireless broadband services. 20 MHz may be used responders (public safety communications). for mobile broadband, leaving 10 MHz for fixed Mandating of a single technology by the FCC was broadband, which in future may be used as a unprecedented. The Order and FNPRM requires all downlink path for mobile broadband users. 700 MHz public safety mobile broadband networks to use a common air interface, specifically LTE, to The FCC delayed the start of the 600 MHz broadcast support roaming and interoperable communications. TV spectrum incentive auctions to mid-2015 (previously scheduled for 2014). Under the FCC’s The City of Charlotte Council awarded a contract in proposed rules, broadcasters would submit bids to October 2011 for an LTE Public Safety Network in the give up their spectrum subject to payment by the dedicated Public Safety 700 MHz band. FCC. The proposed process is voluntary. On April 26, 2012 two key members of the House Canada Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Communications and Technology - Congressman Rogers Wireless commercially launched LTE service Cliff Stearns and Congresswoman Doris Matsui, on July 7, 2011 in Ottawa. Coverage was planned to introduced a bill (H.R 4817) calling for re-purposing cover 95 markets in 2103. In April 2013 the company and pairing of the 1755-1850 MHz band with the said it would be first to launch the BlackBerry Q10 internationally harmonized 2155 – 2180 MHz band smartphone on its 2.6 GHz LTE spectrum. 2.6 GHz is (FCC's AWS-3). H.R. 4817 would require pairing and little used in Canada, and is facilitated by Rogers and auction within three years of February 22, 2012. The Bell in their partnership company Inukshuk Wireless President would be required to clear 1755-1780 MHz which built a network using pre-WiMAX© technology within 5 years unless it can be shown that relocation but was later shelved. Rogers statement: “The of a particular government assignment is not possible Rogers LTE 2600 MHz bandwidth is in all markets "without jeopardizing essential military capability." where we offer LTE AWS 2100.” In May 2013 Rogers The auction, known as Auction 97, will proceed on launched its dual-band AWS/2.6 GHz LTE network as November 13, 2014 for which a 10 billion USD “LTE Max”. 700 MHz was brought into commercial reserve price has been set. A total of 1,614 licenses use in Calgary, Toronto and Vancouver in April 2014 will be offered on a geographic area basis. following the auction (see below). VoLTE is planned. PUBLIC SAFETY – Band 14 (788-798/758-768 MHz) Bell Mobility commercially launched LTE in Toronto, Mississauga, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo and • Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department Guelph on September 14, 2011. 150 Mbps downlink (LVMPD) trialling LTE in band 14. (peak) is enabled in some locations with 2.6 GHz • Miami-Dade police trialling LTE in band 14 band 7 spectrum from 2012. Users outside LTE coverage use DC-HSPA+ or HSPA+. Following The Iowa Statewide Interoperable Communications acquisition of 700 MHz Lower C block spectrum Bell System Board (ISICSB) issued a request for also uses 700 MHz, initially in Hamilton.
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EastLink simultaneously commercially launched spectrum in the Greater Toronto area to Rogers from HSPA+ and LTE services using 2100 MHz spectrum January 2014, subject to regulatory approval. (AWS) on February 15, 2013. Rural WiMAX™ operator Xplornet Communications Telus commercially launched LTE on February 10, announced on December 8, 2011 completion of LTE 2012. Coverage reached over 81% population TDD tests in 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz bands. The trials (December 2013). Telus plans to launch VoLTE in demonstrated a seamless LTE TDD option over 2014. Telus has received regulatory approval to existing WiMAX infrastructure, offering a smooth acquire CDMA operator Public Mobile and use its migration path from WiMAX™ to LTE TDD. The 3.5 1900 MHz G-block spectrum. GHz trial used the same band that Xplornet uses for WiMAX™. The current network has 380 tower sites MTS Allstream commercially launched LTE on (early 2013). The 2.6 GHz trial was enabled by a September 25, 2012 in Manitoba. Coverage is also development license from regulator Industry Canada. provided in Winnipeg and Brandon. On June 13, 2013 MTS and Rogers Wireless announced an LTE Industry Canada started an auction of 700 MHz, network sharing agreement in Manitoba. aligning with US band plan, on January 14, 2014. 97 licences were auctioned raising almost 5 billion USD. SaskTel commercially launched LTE on January 31, Spectrum came into use from mid-April 2014. 2013 in band 4 in Regina, Saskatoon, Clavet, Results: http://news.gc.ca/web/article-en.do?nid=816869 Dundurn, Langham, Lumsden, Martensville, Osler, Pense, Vanscoy, Warman and White City. In 2013 Two new auctions are planned in the short term. The coverage expanded to Dalmeny, Balgonie, Estevan, first is for AWS-3 spectrum; this is adjacent to the Moose Jaw, North Battleford, Prince Albert, Swift existing AWS band, and planned to be auctioned Current, Weyburn and Yorkton; future phases early 2015. An auction of BRS spectrum (2500 – dependent on SaskTel’s success in the 700 MHz 2690 MHz) is scheduled to begin April 15, 2015. auction (see below). VoLTE is being deployed. Sasktel ran an LTE TDD trial to help determine the Antigua and Barbuda feasibility of wireless broadband and voice services in predominantly rural locations. On September 23, Digicel commercially launched LTE in 700 MHz 2013 SaskTel announced commercial launch of its (band 17) on November 6, 2012. High Speed Fusion Internet Service in band 41. EV- LIME is deploying an LTE network for commercial DO service will be turned off end September 2014, launch in Q4 2014. and 850 MHz spectrum refarmed for LTE. Argentina ABC Communications commercially launched LTE TDD in British Columbia using 3.5 GHz on April 23, Telefonica Movistar completed lab trials of LTE in 2014 according to information provided to GSA by the March 2010 and a field trial in 2010 in Buenos Aires, operator, who advised that coverage is commercially in AWS spectrum. available in a specific geographic region around the Personal tested LTE in Puerto Madero (June 2010), community of Quesnel at its first rollout stage. and in December 2010 announced a trial in Cordoba.
Rural ISP Core Broadband is deploying LTE for a Regulator SECOM announced on September 5, 2012 fixed wireless broadband service in Muskoka, Ontario it would allocate to state-owned operator Arsat all the and has selected its system supplier. 850 MHz and 1900 MHz spectrum returned by Movistar when parent Telefonica bought some of the Wind Mobile confirmed its LTE trial February 2011. assets of former operator Movicom from Bell South.
Videotron is committed to deploying LTE. In May The government announced an auction of 120 MHz 2013 the company announced an agreement with of AWS and 90 MHz of APT700 spectrum for 4G/LTE Rogers Wireless to jointly deploy an LTE network in deployments will take place on October 31, 2014. The Quebec and Ottawa. Videotron may sell unused AWS result should be known by end November 2014.
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Aruba spectrum suitable for TDD deployments, acquired by Sky Brasil Servicos and Sunrise Setar NV commercially launched LTE1800 with 20 Telecomunicacoes, the latter for Sao Paulo state. MHz on November 6, 2013. Sky Brasil Servicos commercially launched 2.6 GHz Bahamas LTE TDD (band 38) in Brasilia on December 13, 2011 Sunrise changed its name to On Telecomunicacoes The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority and commercially launched 2.6 GHz LTE TDD (URCA) on August 13, 2012 awarded a 15 years 700 service in band 38 in Itatiba, Louveira, Valinhos and MHz license (24 MHz) with coverage obligations to Vinhedo in March 2013 and has since been extended BTC who commercially launched LTE service in New to cover several cities in Sao Paulo state. Providence (the most populated island) in December 2013. BTC announced coverage had been extended Claro commercially launched LTE FDD service on to The Bahamas’ next most populated islands i.e. December 13, 2012 in Recife, Campos do Jordao, Grand Bahama, Abaco, and Eleuthera in February Buzios and Parat, using 2.6 GHz spectrum. Service 2014, with more islands to be covered in 2014. BTC was opened in Curitiba on January 29, 2013 and had exclusivity in mobile services to April 2014. Porto Alegre on March 7, 2013. By mid-November 2013 service had reached 23 cities. Cable TV operator Cable Bahamas Limited (CBL) is also expected to receive a license. An enquiry has Oi commercially launched LTE service on April 25, been made by GSA to URCA for confirmation. 2013 in Rio de Janeiro. Oi and Portugal Telecom have agreed to merge. Belize TIM Brasil commercially launched LTE on April 30, BTL (DigiCell) is deploying an LTE network. 2013 in the 6 Confederations Cup venues. By May 2014 TIM claimed to have met its licence coverage Bermuda obligations.
Fixed telecoms operator North Rock TIM Brasil and Oi used shared LTE network Communications has requested an LTE license. infrastructure in the cities hosting the Confederations Cup matches. Bolivia Vivo commercially launched LTE on April 30, 2013 in Entel Movil commercially launched a USB modem- Sao Paulo and the 6 Confederations Cup venues and based post-paid LTE service on December 16, 2012 planned to cover 72 cities by end December 2013. in La Paz, Cochabamba and Santa Cruz in 700 MHz. Algar Telecom (CTBC) conducted LTE trials in 850 Tigo acquired 2 x 12 MHz of 700 MHz also acquired MHz and 1800 MHz. Regulatory approval is needed spectrum in 1900 MHz and AWS bands in 2013. Tigo for commercial services in these frequencies. commercially launched LTE on July 17, 2014 in 7 capital cities for postpaid customers. Nextel commercially launched an LTE1800 network on June 16, 2014 in 19 regions of Rio de Janeiro. Brazil Anatel auctioned 15 lots of spectrum on December 6, The auction of 2.6 GHz LTE spectrum by regulator 2011 for USD 132.7 million. 39 lots were not Anatel was concluded on June 12, 2012 with the auctioned, including 29 for WiMAX™. TIM, Oi and winners being (2 x 20 MHz MHz), Claro (2 x 20 Sercomtel bought spectrum in the 1800 MHz band. MHz), TIM (2 x 10 MHz) and Oi (2 x 10 MHz). As no separate bids for 450 MHz spectrum were made, Claro bought spectrum in the 800 MHz band. regulator Anatel bundled the unsold channels with the new 2.6 GHz concessions. The auction included CPqD tested LTE450 in Campinas.
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Anatel adopted the APT700 FDD band plan in Coverage extended to 40 cities by end 2013 by which February 2013 and has agreed terms of the auction time around 200,000 subscriptions were activated. expected to be run September 2014. This spectrum will most likely be available for use for LTE for 60% of The Ministry of ICT (MinTIC) auctioned new spectrum the population by end 2017, nationwide by November in June 2013, offering: 2018. 3.5 GHz spectrum may be auctioned later. • 3 blocks of 30 MHz each in the AWS band; one block reserved for new players Sao Paulo military police force is testing LTE in • 3 blocks of 30 MHz and 1 block of 40 MHz in 700 MHz with 5 base stations. Brazil Army is testing 2.6 GHz spectrum; 1 block for new players LTE in 700 MHz for public security solutions. With • 5 MHz of 3G/1.9 GHz also offered two sites in Brasilia covering Esplanada dos Ministérios, and Communications Center and the - Movistar won 30 MHz in AWS band Army Electronic Warfare (CCOMGEX). - ETB and Tigo consortium won 30 MHz in AWS band - Avantel won 30 MHz in AWS band Cayman Islands - DirecTV won one 30 MHz and one 40 MHz block of 2.6 GHz spectrum Digicel commercially launched LTE using 1800 MHz - Claro won 30 MHz in 2.6 GHz band (LTE1800) on November 28, 2013. The company also has 700 MHz band 13 spectrum. The auction of 1900 MHz spectrum was declared void LIME Cayman commercially launched LTE using 700 Movistar and Tigo both commercially launched LTE MHz (band 17) on November 29, 2013. Rollout to on December 2, 2013 using AWS spectrum. 100% of the islands was completed in May 2014. The proposed merger between Tigo and UNE-EPM Chile is expected to be formally completed by mid-2014.
Regulator Subtel announced in July 2012 that ETB is trialling its LTE network and agreed to sell a Movistar , Entel and Claro had each won 2 x 20 MHz stake in Colombia Movil including 15 MHz of 2.6 in the 2.6 GHz auction. Nextel and VTR did not bid. GHz spectrum to Tigo.
Claro commercially launched LTE on June 27, 2013 Claro commercially launched LTE on February 13, using 2.6 GHz. National coverage in October 2013. 2014 using band 7 spectrum, in Bogota. Claro said half of the country’s population would be covered Movistar commercially launched LTE in 2.6 GHz on within 90 days. November 14, 2013 in all regional capital cities and targets 200,000 customers within a year of launch. DirecTV is targeting LTE service launch in mid 2014. New-entrant Avantel is targeting commercial service Entel PCS commercially launched LTE on March 28, launch in Q3 2014. 2014 using 2.6 GHz on 803 sites. Regulator ANE adopted the APT700 band plan on Claro, Entel and Movistar each won APT700 band May 30, 2012. spectrum by auction in February 2014. Costa Rica Nextel is trialling LTE in AWS spectrum in Santiago, Providencia, and Macul area. ICE launched a pilot trial for selected customers in June 2013 in San Jose using 2.6 GHz dongles. Data- Colombia only commercial service for dongles and tablets was launched in 110 districts on November 25, 2013 UNE-EPM launched commercial LTE service on June under the kölbi Ultra brand. Support for LTE 14, 2012 in 2.6 GHz in Bogotá and Medellín. smartphones was offered from March 2014.
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Claro commercially launched LTE1800 on April 1, government seeks to publicize the benefits of the new 2014. mobile technologies to the society in general.
Movistar commercially launched LTE1800 on July 4, CONATEL advised GSA about several LTE-focused 2014. events and trials held or planned in Ecuador. With LTE comes the opportunity to deploy networks and Pan Latin American WiMAX™ operator IBW services, in some areas for the first time. The International, with operations in Costa Rica, El government has developed the National Broadband Salvador, Guatemala, and Nicaragua is planning to Plan, whose main objective is to provide Internet migrate to 2.3 GHz LTE TDD. services in underserved areas and technologically isolated amongst the main goals, to achieve by 2017 Regulator Sutel recommended adoption of the at least 75% of Ecuador's population with access to APT700 FDD band plan in 2012. Sutel is considering broadband. To help fulfill these goals and objectives, allocating new 1800 MHz and 2.1 GHz spectrum. CONATEL approved the re-allocation of frequency bands for the introduction of IMT systems as follows: Dominican Republic • 700 MHz band: 90 MHz • AWS band: 120 MHz Orange Dominicana launched commercial LTE • 2.5/2.6 GHz band: 190 MHz dongle-based service in Santo Domingo on July 9, 2012, using 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800). With this decision, Ecuador continues taking concrete steps leading to the introduction of new technologies CDMA operator Tricom commercially launched LTE to promote broadband access. (This information was using 1900 MHz (band 2) spectrum on March 18, kindly provided to GSA by CONATEL – August 2012). 2013 covering the National District, metropolitan zone of Santiago and other principal cities. CONATEL confirmed its adoption of the APT 700 MHz FDD band plan in October 2012. Claro commercially launched LTE in band 4 on July 17, 2014. State-owned operator CNT was allocated 30 MHz of APT700 spectrum (band 28) and 40 MHz in the AWS WiMAX™ operator Wind Telecom is deploying an band for its LTE network. CNT commercially LTE TDD network within its 200 MHz holding of band launched LTE in the main cities of Quito and 38 spectrum. Guayaquil in the 3rd week of December 2013 in AWS spectrum, ahead of wider market launch in 2014. Regulator Indotel adopted the APT700 FDD band VoLTE deployment began in April 2014. plan in 2013. CONATEL ordered the formation of an Interagency Ecuador Commission to define the conditions and demands that a public operator should meet for using spectrum The Telecommunication and Information Society and consistent with the National Broadband Plan and Ministry (MINTEL) announced the National Good Living Plan. CONATEL requested the Broadband Plan is to be strengthened to assist Interagency Commission to present alternatives for development of high speed Internet access to allocating spectrum to private operators (established underserved areas. New measures include a or incoming) in the bands currently allocated in the resolution to implement LTE in all regions. National Frequency Plan for IMT services. Considering the benefits of the new mobile technologies, the Telecommunication and Information According to reports, Movistar and Claro have each Society Ministry (MINTEL) and the National Secretary requested an extension to their 1900 MHz frequency of Telecommunications (SENATEL) organized allocations. Movistar and Claro both deployed various events to demonstrate new mobile WCDMA-HSPA networks in their 850 MHz technologies like LTE, in order to increase the allocations, and GSM using 1900 MHz. technological and social development. The
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El Salvador Mexico
Pan Latin American WiMAX™ operator IBW On September 21, 2012 regulator COFETEL International, operating in Costa Rica, El Salvador, confirmed adoption of the APT700 FDD band plan. Guatemala, and Nicaragua, is planning to migrate its operations to 2.3 GHz LTE TDD technology. Telefónica Movistar commercially launched LTE in AWS spectrum on October 15, 2012 in Ciudad de Regulator SIGET scheduled an auction of AWS and México, and later in Guadalajara and Monterrey. 1900 MHz spectrum, beginning November 27, 2013. The auction is delayed. Telefónica and Iusacell have a network sharing arrangement. French Guiana Telcel commercially launched LTE in AWS band for Bids for 4G/LTE licences will be invited in 2014. post-paid customers on November 6, 2012 in Mexico Outremer Telecom is committed to deploy LTE. City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Queretaro, Puebla, Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana, Hermosillo and Merida. Guadeloupe Nextel de Mexico plans to launch LTE in 2014. Bids for 4G/LTE licences will be invited in 2014. Outremer Telecom is committed to deploy LTE. The government plans to auction 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. In August 2012 the government said it Guatemala would not renew spectrum held in the 2.5/2.6 GHz band which would be recalled on expiry. Regulator SIT said suitable bands for LTE include 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, AWS, and 2.1 GHz. Nicaragua Pan Latin American WiMAX™ operator IBW International, operating in Costa Rica, El Salvador, Pan Latin American WiMAX(™) operator IBW Guatemala, and Nicaragua is planning to migrate its International, operating in Costa Rica, El Salvador, operations to 2.3 GHz LTE TDD technology. Guatemala, and Nicaragua is planning to migrate its operations to 2.3 GHz LTE TDD technology. Movistar is deploying an LTE network, targeting commercial launch in Guatemala City in Q3 2014. Panama
Honduras Cable and Wireless Panama is planning to deploy an LTE network and has identified a network partner. Regulator CONATEL granted AWS spectrum suitable The company has spectrum allocations in the 700 for 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE to Claro, Hondutel and Tigo. MHz, 850 MHz, and 1900 MHz bands. LTE coverage is required to reach 15% of territory by 2016, equivalent to the major cities. Tigo plans to Panama confirmed its adoption of the APT700 FDD launch LTE service in Q3 2014. band plan in October 2012.
Jamaica Paraguay
Digicel bought 700 MHz spectrum which it plans to Personal commercially launched LTE service in use for deploying an LTE network. refarmed 1900 MHz on February 8, 2013 in Asuncion and surrounding areas. Network expansion depends Martinique on access to more spectrum.
Bids for 4G/LTE licences will be invited in 2014. Vox (Copaco) launched commercial LTE service in Outremer Telecom is committed to deploy LTE. AWS spectrum on February 18, 2013. Initially Vox launched service with 109 sites of which 89 served
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Asuncion and the metro area, 14 were in Ciudad del Aeronet Wireless Broadband is leasing band 41 Este, 5 in Encarnación and 1 in Pilar. spectrum and deploying LTE TDD for backbone and customer access. Tigo is deploying LTE in 2.6 GHz spectrum acquired from Grupo Clarin. Saint Maarten (Saint-Martin)
Regulator CONATEL plans to auction AWS spectrum Regulator Bureau of Telecommunication and Post of in 2H 2014 and 700 MHz spectrum in 2015. Saint Maarten launched a consultation on the use of LTE and which bands to allocate. Comments were Peru due by November 1, 2013.
Ministerio de Transporte y Comunicaciones del Perú In 2013 French regulator ARCEP granted 800 MHz auctioned 2 blocks of AWS spectrum for LTE, won by LTE test spectrum covering the islands of Saint Telefonica Moviles and Americatel Peru (Entel). Martin, Guadeloupe and Saint Barthelemy to Coverage conditions include a requirement to cover Dauphin Telecom. Applications for 4G LTE licences 234 district capitals within 6 years, and to ensure are to be invited in 2014. coverage in a number of cities by mid-2016. 700 MHz spectrum is to be auctioned towards the end of 2014. Trinidad and Tobago
Movistar commercially launched LTE in parts of Lima Regulator TATT issued an RFP initiating a on January 2, 2014. Marketing activities had started competitive authorization process including: on November 23, 2013. a) Provision Of A Public Domestic Mobile Telecommunications Network And Public Claro commercially launched LTE in existing 1900 Telecommunications Services By A Potential 3rd MHz spectrum on May 21, 2014. Mobile Operator; b) Award Of 800 MHz and 1900 MHz spectrum To Nextel del Peru has selected its infrastructure Eligible Mobile Operator(s); and supplier and is deploying an LTE network. c) Award Of 700 MHz spectrum To Mobile Operators
Viettel is deploying a network; technology not known. S ix applicants applied by the deadline of April 30, 2014. CWC confirmed they had applied for the new Puerto Rico operating licence. Digicel T&T plans to be the first LTE operator. AT&T Puerto Rico commercially launched LTE service in 700 MHz on November 20, 2011 in San TSTT announced the launch on April 16, 2014 of the Juan, and in Guayama, San German and Yauco in Blink Wireless Broadband Pilot Project using LTE 2012. AT&T also owns 2.6 GHz spectrum. technology in two rural communities. Almost 300 sites will be deployed in the following 6 months. Claro commercially launched 700 MHz LTE on November 24, 2011. Turks & Caicos Islands
CDMA operator Open Mobile launched 700 MHz In February 2013 Digicel (700 MHz Lower B and C) commercial LTE service on April 19, 2012. and Islandcom (700 MHz Upper C) received licences to deploy commercial LTE networks. Digicel plans Sprint Nextel announced commercial launch on 75% population coverage within 18 months and 98% December 18, 2012 using 1900 MHz spectrum. within 30 months. LIME did not win a licence.
T Mobile USA commercially launched LTE in AWS Uruguay spectrum on July 11, 2013. Population coverage reached 60% by mid-October 2013. Antel commercially launched LTE on December 13, 2011 in AWS spectrum in Montevideo and Punta del
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Este. Antel has requested access to 700 MHz for LTE Digitel was awarded 30 MHz of spectrum in 1800 and announced plans for nationwide deployment. MHz and 1900 MHz. Movilnet and Movistar each received 20 MHz of extra spectrum in those bands In May 2012 the government passed a Decree governing DTT implementation. Analog switch off is Digitel commercially launched LTE service using planned to take place on November 21, 2015. 1800 MHz (LTE1800) on July 31, 2013 for post-paid consumers and business users. Full commercial In March 2013 regulator URSEC announced that an launch took place on September 9, 2013. In mid-July award of spectrum had been made to the 3 2014 Digitel announced that its LTE network incumbent mobile operators following a tender comprises over 900 base stations and coverage is process for 900 MHz, 1900 MHz and AWS spectrum. offered to 108 towns and cities in 21 states with over 80,000 subscriptions. • Movistar won 4 blocks of 1900 MHz spectrum • Claro won 2 blocks of 1900 MHz and 2 blocks Movilnet uses band 2 for HSPA and is testing LTE. of AWS spectrum Movistar switched off its CDMA service in April 2014. No bids were made for 900 MHz. Antel did not take WiMAX™ operator Movilmax has a nationwide part in the auction and had to pay for reserved licence with 48 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum and spectrum of 1 block in 900 MHz and 4 blocks of AWS. announced the company is migrating to LTE.
Claro commercially launched LTE in Montevideo On December 2, 2013 Conatel launched an auction using AWS (band 4) spectrum on February 13, 2014. for 80 MHz of paired spectrum comprising 4 blocks of 2.6 GHz and 2 blocks of AWS that may be used for Movistar is committed to deploying an LTE network. LTE. Bids were required by December 30, 2013.
Wireless broadband company Dedicado is planning Cofetel adopted the APT700 FDD band plan in April to invest US$ 5 million in deployment of “4Motion” 2013. network using WiMAX™ and LTE in 3.5 GHz. Asia Pacific and Oceania British Virgin Islands
Digicel is deploying an LTE network with service Afghanistan pending regulatory approval. Etisalat Afghanistan has completed an LTE trial. US Virgin Islands Australia Sprint commercially launched its band 25 LTE network on April 17, 2013. Telstra commercially launched LTE1800 service on September 27, 2011 in capital city CBDs (central AT&T Mobility commercially launched band 17 LTE business districts) and more than 30 regional and on St Croix and St Thomas on July 2, 2013. metropolitan centers. The NextG network upgrade uses Telstra’s existing 1800 MHz spectrum refarmed Venezuela to deliver LTE to areas where traffic demand is most concentrated and is integrated with Telstra’s existing Regulator Conatel issued an invitation for the HSPA+ service in the 850 MHz band. LTE covers allocation of 35 MHz paired spectrum bands: over 85% population (June 2014). In mid-February 2014 Telstra reported 4.1 million LTE subscriptions. 1930-1940 MHz paired with 1850-1860 MHz (band 2) Telstra offers dual mode LTE/HSPA+ mobile 1945-1955 MHz paired with 1865-1875 MHz (band 2) broadband devices for seamless operation across 1810-1825 MHz paired with 1715-1730 MHz (band 3) 1800 MHz and 850 MHz and is trialling IMS but says
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it will not rush into voice until coverage is ubiquitous announced they had paired two 20 MHz channels of on the LTE layer. its 2.3 GHz spectrum in Melbourne. In initial testing, peak speeds of over 160 Mbps to a single device In February 2013 Telstra announced plans to deploy were achieved. Optus claimed the test is "the first LTE in re-farmed 900 MHz spectrum – some sites are time in the world that 4G carrier aggregation has running already. In July 2014 Telstra announced been introduced into a live LTE TDD network, not a plans to close their 2G/GSM network by end 2016. In lab". Optus 4G Plus is live in parts of Adelaide, July 2013 Telstra demonstrated carrier aggregation Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney, and using 900 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum. Telstra customers with compatible terminals devices can successfully demonstrated speeds up to 300 Mbps connect in either FDD 1800 MHz or TDD 2300 MHz with LTE Advanced carrier aggregation using 40 MHz modes. Optus acquired APT700 and 2.6 GHz of 1800 MHz and 2600 MHz spectrum on its live spectrum in the 2013 auction, see below, and was commercial network. In May 2014 Telstra granted Australia's first outdoor metro trial licences demonstrated 450 Mbps speed using LTE-Advanced for 4G in 2.6 GHz spectrum. Optus has undergone carrier aggregation technology in their commercial testing for compatibility of the new spectrum with the network by combining three 20 MHz carriers (20 MHz latest devices and with television broadcasters. The 1800 MHz plus two 20 MHz 2.6 GHz carriers). 2100 trials using APT700 and 2.6 GHz were extended to MHz spectrum will also be used in the LTE network. Darwin and Perth. Optus advised GSA that their LTE Telstra also acquired new APT700 and 2.6 GHz commercial service using APT700 spectrum was spectrum in the auction. launched in Perth and Darwin on July 23, 2014. APT700 can be brought into commercial use Telstra commercially launched APT700 (band 28) nationally from January 1, 2015. Spectrum in the 2.6 service on July 25, 2014 in Perth, Freemantle, GHz range can be used in most of Australia from Griffith, Esperance, Mount lsa and Mildura. Each site October 1, 2014. is equipped with: * 2 x 20 MHz of APT700 (enabling theoretical peak Vodafone confirmed results of its first LTE1800 trial speeds on Cat 4 devices of 150 Mbps) and in Q4 2010 in Newcastle, NSW using 10 MHz of 1800 * 2 x 20 MHz of LTE1800 (enabling theoretical peak MHz. A second trial in Sydney followed. In September speeds on Cat 6 devices of 300 Mbps) 2011 the company announced that an agreement with the Australasian Railway Association, which In October 2013 Telstra announced completion of the holds licences for 1800 MHz spectrum, to create world’s first LTE Broadcast session on a commercial contiguous blocks of spectrum in NSW, Victoria and LTE network. VoLTE is also planned. South Australia, had been approved by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). Optus conducted an LTE1800 trial in Newcastle and Vodafone commercially launched LTE1800 service Hunter Valley areas of New South Wales. for existing customers already having their own Commercial LTE service launch for small business, compatible LTE device on June 12, 2013 in selected enterprise and government customers in Sydney and metro areas of Sydney, Perth, Melbourne, Adelaide, Perth was confirmed on July 31, 2012 using Brisbane; and Newcastle and Wollongong. The LTE LTE1800, before a wider launch on September 4, service was opened to new customers on July 10, 2012. The Optus 4G (LTE1800) network now covers 2013. In January 2014 the company announced 1 75% population in metropolitan areas and 90% million LTE devices were connected. Cat 4 (150 population coverage is planned by March 2015. Mbps) devices were offered in January 2014 (dongle Optus is trialling HD voice and VoLTE. Optus and portable hotspot). acquired Vivid Wireless giving access to 98 MHz of 2.3 GHz spectrum and commercially launched LTE NBN Co was established to design, build and operate TDD service in the Canberra area on June 6, 2013. the national broadband network and launched LTE Dual mode (FDD and TDD) devices were offered by TDD commercial wholesale services to customers on the company at launch. The company has since April 2, 2012. There are currently 15 service providers added LTE TDD coverage for Melbourne, Brisbane, who are accredited to provide services over the Sydney and Adelaide. On December 19, 2013 Optus network and NBN Co is installing services for them
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across four locations in Australia, expanding to a Bangladesh national footprint covering 4% of the population by the end of 2015. This locks in with the same product set Regulator BTRC announced its decision in December being offered over fibre and satellite to make the total 2013 to allow 5 companies to received LTE licences: picture of 100% population coverage. Retail price packages are available from *SkyMesh, iiNet, and • Banglalion Activ8Me (source: NBN Co provided to GSA) • Qubee • Bangladesh Internet Exchange Limited (BIEL) EnergyAustralia’s Ausgrid trialled an LTE platform • Mango at 15 sites in 2011, with the intent to migrate to a full • BTCL LTE network. EnergyAustralia was chosen by the Government to lead the Smart Grid, Smart City BTRC confirmed in July 2013 that WiMAX™ demonstration project to test Australia’s first fully operators (Banglalion, BIEL, Qubee) will be allowed integrated, commercial-scale smart grid. to deploy LTE TDD networks in their 2.6 GHz (band 38) spectrum subject to formal application and WiMAX™ operator BigAir manages one of the payment of additional fees. largest metropolitan fixed wireless networks in Australia and plans to deploy an LTE system. 3.5 GHz WiMAX™ operator BIEL acquired a BWA license using 2.6 GHz spectrum allowing LTE to be An auction by ACMA of APT700 spectrum (for use deployed. Wateen and Qubee announced in from January 1, 2015) and 2.6 GHz spectrum (use December 2013 plans to merge their respective from October 1, 2014 in most places) began April 23, WiMAX™ operations, subject to regulatory approval. 2013. The results were given on May 7, 2013. All 3 bidders won spectrum, raising total revenues of South Asian Telecom Regulatory Council announced nearly AUS$2 billion. VHA withdrew before the start. in May 2013 that Bangladesh adopted the APT700 FDD band plan. BRTC proposes to auction APT700 APT700 band winners: spectrum in 2015. Guidelines are being prepared for Optus 2 x 10 MHz; Telstra 2 x 20 MHz licensing of 450 MHz after APT700 spectrum has 2.6 GHz band winners: been allocated. Optus 2 x 20 MHz; Telstra 2 x 40 MHz TPG Internet 2 x 10 MHz Bhutan http://engage.acma.gov.au/digitaldividend/digital- dividend-auction-results/ Bhutan Telecom commercially launched its LTE1800 service on October 24, 2013 in the capital, Thimpu. In January 2014 Telstra announced tests using An announcement by the South Asian Telecom APT700 spectrum on its live network had been Regulatory Council (SATRC) in May 2013 confirmed successfully completed. The first call was made Bhutan’s adoption of the APT 700 FDD band plan. across two test sites using a pre-release phone. TPG Internet is a nationwide fixed telecoms service Brunei provider and holds international assets (submarine cable). The company plans to deploy LTE. DST commercially launched LTE1800 service on November 15, 2013. ACMA is consulting on proposals for prioritizing more Regulator AITI adopted the APT700 FDD band plan spectrum for mobile broadband including changing in June 2013. the status of the 3.4 – 3.6 GHz band to “primary” from “secondary”, and suitable for LTE. ACMA is also Cambodia evaluating the merits of using the 400 MHz band for interoperable government wireless communications. Smart Axiata commercially launched LTE1800 on ACMA is consulting on how to allocate the unsold January 22, 2014 in several indoor locations in parts block of 700 MHz; comments were due July 19, 2013. of Phnom Penh.
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Sotelco is deploying a commercial LTE network than 10 data devices (dongles, portable hotspots, targeting launch in Phnom Penh by end 2014. CPE) were offered at launch with 7 pricing plans.
China China Unicom commercially launched LTE TDD service in bands 40 and 41 on March 18, 2014 in 25 China Mobile built its TD-SCDMA network so that cities, and plans to cover 100 cities by end 2014. sites and other elements are reusable for LTE TDD. China Mobile ran a pilot of LTE TDD technology until According to MIIT, the number of LTE subscribers in September 2011 using 850 base stations in 6 cities in China was 14 million at end June 2014. China Mobile Phase 1. This followed a large-scale showcase trial has 10 million of them in more than 300 cities. network during the 2010 World Expo in Shanghai. The second phase of trials involved 15 cities and 7 China Telecom and China Unicom both received suppliers. In June 2013, 5,000 users begin testing the FDD trial licences from MIIT in June 2014. China newly deployed LTE TDD network in Shanghai where Unicom plans to deploy FDD-TDD technology in 16 1,000 base stations - 700 outdoors and 300 indoors – cities: Shanghai, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, Chongqing, were deployed initially covering the Inner Ring region, Zhengzhou, Wuhan, Chengdu, Xi’an, Changsha, later extending to the whole city by the 2013. China Jinan, Hangzhou, Shenyang, Harbin, Fuzhou, Mobile has 1.9 GHz, 2.0 GHz, 2.3 GHz and 2.6 GHz Nanjing and Shijiazhuang. China Telecom will also bands (classified as F, A, E and D bands). Trials use trial FDD in 16 cities: Shanghai, Xi'an, Chengdu, the D and F bands. Hangzhou, Wuhan, Nanjing, Jinan, Hefei, Shijiazhuang, Haikou, Zhengzhou, Chongqing, In June 2013 China Mobile issued a tender for Shenzhen, Nanchang, Nanning and Lanzhou. covering 31 provinces with 207,000 LTE TDD base stations. Contracts worth a total of CNY 20bn According to reports, MIIT is planning to allocate 30 ($3.27bn) were later awarded to nine vendors. MHz of paired 1800 MHz spectrum to China Telecom and 25 MHz of paired 2.1 GHz spectrum to 210 MHz of LTE TDD spectrum is allocated in China: China Unicom for FDD deployments.
! 130 MHz for 326 cities in 1880-1900 MHz On November 13, 2013 China Mobile, working with (band 39), 2320-2370 MHz (band 40), and SK Telecom, completed the first FDD – TDD VoLTE 2575-2635 MHz (band 41) to China Mobile interoperability tests. China Mobile has deployed VoLTE supporting eSRVCC on its LTE TDD network ! 40 MHz for 55 cities comprising 2300-2320 in Guanghzou. In April 2014 results of FDD/TDD LTE- MHz and 2555-2575 MHz to China Unicom Advanced carrier aggregation trials were announced. Air interface tests achieved 250 Mbps. ! 40 MHz for 42 cities comprising 2370-2390 MHz and 2635-2655 MHz to China Telecom The government is also considering 1.4 GHz and 3.5 GHz spectrum for TD-LTE allocation, as well as LTE TDD operating licences were issued by MIIT to exploring the application of 50 GHz and beyond to China Mobile, China Telecom and China Unicom meet future demand of mobile broadband. Band 42 on December 4, 2013. (3.5 GHz) is an important future band for China.
China Mobile commercially launched LTE TDD on In Hong Kong SAR, 2 x 15 MHz blocks of 2.6 GHz December 18, 2013 in Beijing, Guangzhou and spectrum were obtained via auction each by China Chongqing using band 39, band 40, and band 41. Mobile HK (Peoples Phone), Genius Brand China Mobile is expected to purchase 50 to 60 million (Hutchison Telecom/PCCW JV) and CSL Limited. user terminals in 2014. On November 25, 2010 CSL Limited commercially China Telecom commercially launched LTE TDD launched its combined LTE2600/1800/DC-HSPA+ service in bands 40 and 41 on February 14, 2014, network for corporate services, extended to all initially offering service in almost 100 cities. More customers on May 16, 2011. LTE1800 sites have
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been added incrementally. Although the first LTE1800 Hutchison 3 HK is deploying an LTE FDD and TDD site was on air at the initial launch, now LTE1800 is network and in the first phase launched commercial more widely available in several in-building locations LTE FDD service using 2.6 GHz spectrum on May 2, and in general commercial use (shown in this report 2012. LTE using 1800 MHz (LTE1800) was brought to be from November 2011 as advised to us by CSL). into commercial service in October 2012. LTE TDD is On July 3, 2013 CSL announced it had brought into not commercially launched. 3 HK commercially service another 50% of 1800 MHz spectrum across launched VoLTE on May 15, 2014. most of the network, expanding in-service 1800 MHz LTE bandwidth to 2!15 MHz. CSL also uses 20 MHz SmarTone announced commercial LTE1800 launch of paired 2.6 GHz spectrum for LTE and offers a Cat on August 28, 2012 with service available to selected 4 personal hotspot. CSL will continue to expand its customers by invitation, then generally available to 1800 MHz allocation to 20 MHz and thus offer 2 x 20 customers on September 11. The company confirmed MHz on both 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands across that LTE coverage would be available at the first MTR the territory by 2014. CA with 20 MHz on LTE1800 underground station (at Admiralty) on October 15, (B3) and 20 MHz on LTE2600 (B7) is being trialled. 2012. Rollout has since been extended across all The company intends to have its network ready for MTR stations and adjoining tunnels. LTE Advanced 300 Mbps (Cat 6) service in 2014 with test devices. CSL expects commercial Cat 6 devices On February 6, 2012 regulator OFCA announced the to be available for commercial launch of the service in auction results after 6 bidding rounds for 90 MHz of 2H 2014. VoLTE was soft-launched on December 5, 2.3 GHz spectrum for BWA services, divided into 3 x 2013; tests with handsets are continuing. Pricing for 30 MHz blocks. 30 MHz blocks were won each by commercial service will be unveiled in 1H 2014. Hutchison Telephone Company Limited, China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited, and new Telstra has agreed to sell CSL Limited to Hong entrant 21 ViaNet Group Limited. Kong Telecom (HKT) for US$2.4 billion, which has received conditional regulatory approval. PCCW is China Mobile HK commercially launched LTE FDD the holding company of HKT Group. in 2.6 GHz on April 25, 2012 and 2.3 GHz LTE TDD in December 2012. The world’s first bi-directional Genius Brand has deployed a city-wide LTE network handover between LTE FDD and TDD on a live on which Hutchison and PCCW-HKT operate their network was announced by Ericsson and China respective commercial LTE services. Mobile HK on June 20, 2012. LTE1800 was deployed in 2013. PCCW-HKT launched commercial LTE service using 2.6 GHz on April 25, 2012. Its Mobile (+Wi-Fi) OFCA auctioned spectrum in the 2.6 GHz range, broadband service “Netvigator Everywhere” is offering five blocks of 2 x 5 MHz in the 2515 – 2540 supported by territory-wide 42Mbps DC-HSPA+ MHz and 2635 – 2660 MHz range. The auction service integrated with the company’s 100 Mbps Wi- involved 5 bidders (China Mobile Hong Kong, China Fi (almost 10,000 hotspots) in an auto-connect/ traffic Unicom (Hong Kong), CSL Limited, Genius Brand, off-load arrangement. LTE using 1800 MHz and SmarTone), beginning on March 18, 2013 and (LTE1800) was brought into commercial service in ending on March 19, 2013 after 18 rounds of bidding. September 2012. From January 22, LTE coverage China Unicom failed to gain any spectrum. included the major MTR lines (the Hong Kong underground train network). In June 2013 PCCW- Fiji HKT announced its LTE network had been upgraded to Cat 4 operation (theoretical peak downlink 150 800 MHz and 1800 MHz LTE spectrum was Mbps). In June 2013 PCCW-HKT activated additional auctioned In July 2013. Results: 2.6 GHz spectrum raising the total in service in 2.6 GHz to 2x 20 MHz alongside offering new Cat 4 user • Vodafone: 30 MHz paired 1800 MHz devices. PCCW-HKT commercially launched VoLTE • Digicel: blocks in APT700 and 1800 MHz on May 15, 2014 including eSRVCC delivering totally • TFL: blocks in APT700 and 1800 MHz seamless handover of voice calls from 4G to 3G.
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Vodafone Fiji commercially launched LTE1800 on Karnataka, Punjab and Maharashtra. Bharti Airtel is a December 5, 2013 with coverage available in most member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative. parts of Suva, Lami and parts of Nasinu. Over 6,000 subscriptions were signed up in the first 2 months. On April 10, 2012 Bharti Airtel commercially launched LTE TDD data-only service in Kolkata; Digicel is expected to deploy LTE in 2014. support for mobiles was introduced in June 2014. Service opened in Bangalore on May 7, 2012 and Guam Pune on October 18, 2012 including CSFB, then Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula in March 2013. IT&E announced launch of LTE commercial services Airtel plans to cover New Delhi and Mumbai with on June 28, 2012 – initially for business only, using spectrum acquired from the Qualcomm Asia Pacific 700 MHz, extended to other users in early July 2012 Indian BWA operation. Service was launched in as “4G LTE Wireless Data Network for the Home”. Nagpur in July 2014. Airtel is trialling VoLTE.
DoCoMo Pacific announced launch of LTE Aircel won BWA spectrum in 8 circles and commercial services in 700 MHz on October 4, 2012. commercially launched LTE TDD on July 16, 2014 in 4 circles: Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar and Orissa. iConnect commercially launched LTE service using 700 MHz spectrum on March 20, 2013. Infotel Broadband was the only pan-India winner, and was later bought by Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL). GTA commercially launched LTE service using AWS spectrum on October 11, 2013. Sites are located in Reliance Jio Infocomm is deploying an LTE TDD the villages of Agana, Agana Heights, Asan, Agat, BWA network targeting commercial launch in Barrigada, Chalan Pago, Dededo, Mangilao, September 2014. RJIL is trialling VoLTE. Sinajana, Tamuning, Tumon and Yigo. BSNL acquired BWA spectrum licences in the 2.6 India GHz band in 22 circles for $1.6 billion.
The 2.3 GHz BWA auction began with 11 companies MTNL bought 2.6 GHz and is studying introducing bidding for 2 blocks in each of the 22 circles. The LTE TDD in addition to current WiMAX deployments. government had earlier allocated one 20 MHz unpaired spectrum block each to MTNL and BSNL. Videocon is deploying a commercial LTE1800 network in 6 circles targeting launch by end 2014 and Tikona Digital Networks won spectrum in 5 circles also plans to deploy VoLTE. and is committed to deploy LTE TDD. Commercial launch is expected in 2014. SSTL bidding under the name of MTS secured 800 MHz (ex-CDMA) spectrum and technology neutral Qualcomm and Bharti Airtel won 4 circles each. licences in 8 circles following a recent auction. The Qualcomm gained spectrum in the key circles of company is considering deploying LTE at a later date. Delhi, Mumbai, Haryana and Kerala, announced Global Holding Corporation and Tulip Telecom as Regulator Telecom Regulatory Authority of India initial shareholders for its LTE venture for network (TRAI) is consulting on 700 MHz spectrum and IMT- deployment, and started trials. In May 2012 it was Advanced (incl. LTE-Advanced) systems. announced that Bharti Airtel would buy 49% of the Qualcomm license (Qualcomm Asia Pacific – QAP), In March 2013 TRAI recommended adoption of the comprising the 26% owned by Global Holding APT700 FDD band plan. Corporation and Tulip Telecom, plus a further 23% of the company (according to reports, as a first step to In January 2014 the Indian government agreed a taking full ownership in 2014). Bharti Airtel refund to BSNL and MTNL in exchange for return of subsequently raised its share to 51%. Bharti Airtel the unused 2.6 GHz spectrum. has BWA licences in four other circles - Kolkata,
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The DoT started an auction of technology-neutral 900 2.3 GHz spectrum won in an auction for a BWA MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum on February 3, 2014 license in 2009. that concluded and provisional results being announced on February 13, 2014. Bharti Airtel, WiMAX™ operator PT Internux commercially Vodafone and Idea were the biggest spenders. launched LTE TDD on November 14, 2013 under the Reliance Jio Infocomm bought contiguous spectrum BOLT service name in Jakarta, Bogor, Depok, 1800 MHz spectrum in 14 circles but did not buy any Tangerang, and Bekasi, using 15 MHz of 2.3 GHz 900 MHz spectrum. Other winners were Telenor (via spectrum (band 40). Telewings), Aircel and RCOM. WiMAX™ operator First Media is migrating to LTE Vodafone India will deploy LTE1800. Bharti Airtel TDD using 15 MHz of 2.3 GHz (band 40). will build out LTE1800 alongside its existing 2.3 GHz LTE TDD deployments to establish a pan-India WiMAX™ operator Berca Hardayaperkasa is 4G/LTE footprint. Idea Cellular will deploy a considering migrating to an LTE TDD network using LTE1800 system. Reliance Jio Infocomm will build 15 MHz of 2.3 GHz spectrum (band 40). out LTE1800 alongside its existing 2.3 GHz LTE TDD deployments to establish a pan-India 4G/LTE SDPPI adopted the APT700 FDD band plan in June footprint through an integrated ecosystem. 2013. Final results (DoT website): http://www.dot.gov.in/sites/default/files/Final_results_and_Payment_Methodology_0.pdf Japan
Indonesia NTT DoCoMo launched Japan’s first commercial LTE system on December 24, 2010 in 2.1 GHz spectrum Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat have been under the “Xi™” brand, in Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka. trialling LTE and plan to deploy commercial networks. DoCoMo aims to cover 98% of population with LTE by March 2015 and is targeting 30 million LTE Indosat trialled 2.6 GHz LTE in 2010 and in October subscriptions by this date. DoCoMo claimed almost 2011 announced completion of an LTE1800 trial in 10 22 million LTE subscriptions by Q1 2014. NTT MHz bandwidth in Surabaya and Denpasar in Bali. DoCoMo has also launched LTE in 1.5 GHz (band Indosat plans to deploy LTE in re-farmed 1800 MHz 21) and plans to begin installing APT700 FDD and 2.1 GHz spectrum. Some operators called for compatible base stations in readiness for when this new spectrum in the 700 MHz band for LTE following band is allowed for commercial LTE use in 2015. NTT analog to digital TV broadcast migration. DoCoMo also deployed LTE in 1800 MHz band 3 from September 2013. Telkomsel and XL Axiata each launched an LTE network trial in Nusa Dusa, Bali in advance of the 150 Mbps downlink was first introduced in Kawasaki APEC summit in October 2013. on July 30, 2013 and is planned for Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka from October 1, 2013. This is understood The parent company of Axiata has government to be a Cat 4 service. LTE-Advanced is expected to approval to take over Axis, which owns 15 MHz of be introduced in 2015. The company achieved 1.2 1800 MHz and plans to deploy LTE1800 service. Gbps downlink speed in trials. VoLTE was commercially launched at end June 2014. CDMA operator Bakrie Telecom plans to introduce LTE following a trial phase. NTT DoCoMo has announced LTE roaming service from March 31, 2014 for its customers travelling to Regulator SDPPI is consulting on the use of 2300 – the US, Canada, France, Hong Kong, Puerto Rico 2360 MHz spectrum (part of Band 40) for BWA and the US Virgin Islands. Roaming to Malaysia was services, which could lead to licences being awarded. activated in April 2014.
PT Indosat Mega Media (IM2), subsidiary of PT KDDI launched commercial LTE service on Indosat Tbk (ISAT), selected LTE TDD technology in September 21, 2012. The LTE service was launched
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in 2.1 GHz spectrum (band 1) to align with the LTE subscribers, but additional radio spectrum (band 9) band support offered by the iPhone 5, which KDDI which e-Access currently uses for its services. also introduced on the same day. 800 MHz (band 18) spectrum is also now used for commercial LTE Softbank has announced plans to buy 70% of Sprint service and APT700 (700 MHz band 28) will be Nextel (USA) for $20.1 billion. The deal required the introduced later. KDDI's LTE coverage was more approval of shareholders and regulators, and was than 99% as of March 2014. LTE-Advanced carrier completed in July 2013. aggregation, combining bands 1 and 18 spectrum, was launched in May 2014. KDDI claims the biggest In August 2013 Softbank demonstrated 5-carrier number of international LTE roaming partners among Carrier Aggregation for LTE TDD using 3.5 GHz the local carriers, through partnerships with SK spectrum and achieved 770 MBps downlink speed in Telecom, CSL, PCCW-HKT, M1, Bouygues Telecom, Tokyo. Carrier Aggregation (CA), Coordinated Multi- Swisscom, Orange Spain, AT&T, Rogers, VIVO, and Point (CoMP) and Cloud BB (Baseband) LTE- Claro. KDDI plans VoLTE launch in 2014. Advanced technologies were employed in the trial. Softbank is deploying VoLTE and SRVCC. eAccess launched commercial LTE service using 1.7 GHz on March 15, 2012 (i.e. band 9, which is within NTT DoCoMo, KDDI and eAccess were granted LTE1800 band 3. A band 9 device will not work on all APT700 FDD spectrum in June 2012 for LTE, which band 3 networks). Coverage is scheduled to cover can be brought into use from early 2015. 99% of population of Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya by end June 2012. eAccess announced in September The Ministry of Internal Affairs and Communications 2013 the results of its first trials of LTE-Advanced (MIC) launched a consultation on expansion of Carrier Aggregation technology and has applied to regional BWA systems by assigning a band in the 2.6 the regulator for additional 1700 MHz FDD and 80 GHz range to the AXGP standard, which is LTE TDD MHz of 3.5 GHz TDD spectrum for further CA trialling. compliant. Comments were required by 26 July 2013. 3.5 GHz spectrum may be allocated by 2015. Softbank Mobile, a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative, commercially launched XGP/LTE TDD Kiribati services on February 24, 2012 via its affiliated company Wireless City Planning following a pre- Telecom Services Kiribati Ltd (TSKL) commercially commercial pilot service starting on November 1, launched LTE for CPE business users in August 2013 2011. The network is deployed in 20 MHz of 2.5 GHz using 700 MHz band 12 spectrum. Wider service spectrum (band 41) bought from Willcom (PHS launch followed on October 29, 2013. operator) and had over 2.6 million subscriptions by December 2013, with 50,000 eNodeBs deployed. Laos
A 3.5 GHz LTE-Advanced trial is underway in the On May 15, 2012 the Ministry of Post and Ginza area of Tokyo (4 x 20 MHz carriers 2480 – Telecommunication awarded an LTE licence to 3560 MHz), to continue to end 2014. 200 MHz (3.4 – Beeline Lao. Testing in Vientiane where coverage 3.6 GHz) is planned for allocation in 2014. will open uses 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. Coverage. Commercial launch may be in 2014. Softbank Mobile owns licences to operate mobile systems in 2.1 GHz FDD (band 1), 1.5 GHz (band 11) Lao Telecommunications Company (LTC) is and 900 MHz (band 8), and commercially launched deploying LTE with 2.6 GHz spectrum and has been LTE FDD service in band 1 on September 21, 2012 available in Vientiane from 2013 on a pre-commercial when introducing iPhone 5. VoLTE is in deployment. basis. Commercial service may begin in 2014.
Softbank Corp. will acquire domestic rival eAccess Malaysia Ltd. through a stock swap deal valued at $2.3 billion, which will provide Softbank not only with more Regulator MCMC named 9 recipients of 20 MHz (2x 10 MHz) of 2.6 GHz spectrum: DiGi, Celcom Axiata,
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Maxis, U Mobile, WiMAX operators Asiaspace, P1, confirmed in March 2014 it had agreed to buy 57% of REDtone International, YTL Communications (Yes P1, having earlier announced plans to launch LTE brand) and Puncak Semangat Sdn Bhd (Altel) service in refarmed 850 MHz spectrum. which received 40 MHz (2x 20 MHz). A number of parties have enquired about access to 700 MHz, WiMAX™ operator Asiaspace plans to launch LTE which MCMC is considering. MCMC is also TDD in 2.3 GHz, expected to be achieved in 2014. consulting on re-farming 850/900/1800 MHz. WiMAX™ operator YTL plans to launch LTE TDD Maxis commercially launched LTE on January 1, service in 2015 using 2.3 GHz band 40 spectrum. 2013 in 2.6 GHz. 1800 MHz (LTE1800) was added YTL also acquired 2.6 GHz spectrum (as above). mid-April 2013. In October 2011 Maxis and U Mobile Maxis and REDtone signed an infrastructure and signed a RAN sharing agreement covering LTE. spectrum sharing agreement in July 2012. Both companies plan to launch LTE in 2014. In addition to Celcom Axiata commercially launched its LTE its newly-acquired 2.6 GHz spectrum REDtone has service using 2.6 GHz spectrum in the Klang Valley spectrum in the 2.3 GHz band 40 which it uses for its on April 22, 2013. Celcom planned to have 620 live existing WiMAX™ service. sites by end 2013, and nearly double that figure by Q1 2014. The current LTE network expansion MCMC adopted the APT700 FDD band plan in June deployment program includes using 2.6 GHz and 2013 and in December 2013 said that its auction refarmed 1800 MHz (LTE1800) spectrum. would be delayed until 2018, as broadcasters need to vacate the band before it can be allocated for mobile. In early July 2013 Celcom Axiata and Altel announced an agreement to jointly develop, Maldives establish, build, operate and manage shared infrastructure. Each company will pool 2 x 10 MHz of Ooredoo (formerly known as Wataniya) commercially 2.6 GHz bandwidth for LTE deployment. In addition, launched LTE service using 700 MHz in Male for data Altel will consider Celcom's request for the remaining users on April 28, 2013. Service for smartphones 2 x 10MHz spectrum owned by Altel. The agreement phones was enabled in December 2013. allows for Altel to appoint Celcom as the exclusive infrastructure and wholesale provider to enable Altel Dhiraagu introduced two 4G/LTE experience zones to operate as a MVNO and for other services that are in two key locations of Male as the first phase of its under consideration. introduction of Dhiraagu 4G services to Maldives.
In December 2013 Celcom and DiGi announced they Mongolia had entered entered into agreement with Telekom Malaysia for provision of backhaul services for LTE. 3.5 GHz WiMAX™ operator Ulusnet plans to migrate to LTE TDD in the same band. DiGi commercially launched LTE service in high traffic locations in the Klang Valley on July 5, 2013 Mongolia Telecom is deploying an LTE network in using 2.6 GHz spectrum. cooperation with KT Corporation (South Korea), targeting commercial launch in 2015. U Mobile commercially launched LTE service using The government is understood to be considering 2.6 GHz spectrum on December 17, 2013 in strategic allocating 1800 MHz for LTE FDD service (LTE1800). areas within the Klang Valley, namely Bandar Sunway, Subang Jaya, Puchong and Berjaya Times Myanmar Square as well as Taman Molek in Johor Bahr. Myanmar Posts and Telecommunications (MPT) WiMAX™ operator Packet One Networks P1 advised GSA that 1800 MHz (20 MHz) is (Malaysia) is upgrading its 2.3 GHz network with an standardized for LTE FDD service. MPT launched a LTE TDD overlay. P1 planned to have 4,000–5,000 trial service in 2013 for the SEA Games. LTE TDD sites by 2015. Telekom Malaysia
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Ooredoo is deploying an LTE network. The government adopted the APT700 FDD band plan and attempted to auction spectrum in 9 paired 5 MHz Telenor is deploying an LTE network. blocks. Bidding started on October 29, 2013. Spectrum can be used from January 1, 2014. Nepal • Vodafone NZ obtained three lots (2 x 15 MHz) Ncell approached the Nepal Telecom Authority for a • Telecom NZ obtained three lots (2 x 15 MHz) license and spectrum for LTE. Shareholder • 2degrees obtained two lots (2 x 10 MHz) TeliaSonera is keen to proceed if permission granted. The remaining 2 x 5 MHz block was auctioned and Nepal Telecom has trialled LTE TDD and FDD won by Telecom NZ with a bid of NZ$ 83 million. modes and also wishes to deploy a commercial LTE network subject to regulatory approval. 2degrees commercially launched LTE1800 Cat 4 in Auckland on June 30, 2014. Coverage will extend to New Caledonia Hamilton, Wellington and Christchurch by end 2014.
OPT is deploying a commercial LTE network Northern Mariana Islands (NMI) targeting launch in February 2015. More than 85% of the population is to be covered by 4G by end 2017. IT&E commercially launched LTE (as well as HSPA+) on July 14, 2014. New Zealand Pakistan Vodafone New Zealand launched the country’s first LTE commercial service on February 28, 2013 in The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority auctioned Auckland using 1800 MHz (LTE1800). Service 30 MHz of 3G 850 MHz and 20 MHz of 4G 1800 MHz reached Christchurch on May 29, 2013 and 6 more spectrum in April 2014. China Mobile Pakistan cities including Wellington by July 2013. Over 60,000 (CMPak), which operates under the ZONG brand customers signed up for LTE in the first 3 months and name, was the only winner of 4G spectrum. exceeded over 300,000 after one year. Vodafone said its LTE network would cover 2.54 million people in 48 Warid Telecom is seeking approval to refarm its locations by end April 2014. Public demonstrations of 1800 MHz spectrum to allow LTE1800 service launch LTE-Advanced Carrier Aggregation were made in in September 2014. May 2013. The network now supports Cat 4 devices. The company plans to trial VoLTE by end 2014. Papua New Guinea
Telecom New Zealand commercially launched Cat 4 Digicel PNG was allocated APT700 FDD spectrum (2 LTE service in parts of Auckland, Wellington and x 22.5 MHz) in April 2012 and commercially launched Christchurch on November 12, 2013 using 1800 MHz 4G/LTE (the world’s first APT700 service) on March (band 3 LTE1800). APT700 band 28 FDD spectrum 26, 2014 for postpaid customers using Huawei CPE will be brought into service in August 2014 following and MiFi products offered by Digicel. Five monthly trialling since May 2014. LTE-Advanced carrier data plans were offered. Ten sites provide coverage aggregation was deployed on a few sites in May to Gordons, Savannah Heights, Ela Beach, 2014, combining 20 MHz band 3 with 20 MHz band 7. Hanuabada, Touaguba Hill, Ela Makana, Konedobu, CA devices will be offered later in 2014 or early 2015. and at downtown BSP, ANG Haus and Deloittes. A CPE and MiFi are offered. Kordia is considering an upgrade of its 2.3 GHz rural mobile network to LTE. Woosh owns rights to 93 The Philippines MHz of spectrum including 35 MHz in the 2.3 GHz band and is considering an upgrade of its 2.3 GHz Following a period of limited commercial LTE service rural mobile network to LTE. Woosh is a member of beginning in Boracay in April 2011 then extended to the Global TD-LTE Initiative. additional locations including Cebu and Davao,
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Smart Communications commercially launched with carriers in which it holds stakes i.e. SingTel wider LTE service on August 25, 2012 in Metro Optus (Australia), Telkomsel (Indonesia), Globe Manila using 2.1 GHz (band 1). Commercial LTE Telecom (Philippines). SingTel announced in May service was also launched using 1800 MHz (LTE1800 2013 the company had achieved nationwide – band 3) on September 5, 2012. To further extend coverage and upgraded its network to Cat 4 (peak coverage, 850 MHz spectrum (band 5) was brought downlink speed of 150 Mbps). On May 28, 2014 into use on September 14, 2012. By end April 2013 SingTel unveiled its 300 Mbps Cat LTE-Advanced over 1,000 LTE sites were active in over 115 cities network, which combines 20 MHz band 3 and 20 and municipalities. Smart is conducting trials of LTE- MHz band 7 spectrum. A Cat 6 MiFI hotspot device Advanced technology in Metro Manila, Davao City manufactured by Huawei was offered in SingTel retail and Boracay and is also conducting LTE TDD trials. outlets from July 24, 2014. VoLTE was commercially In November 2013 Smart announced completion of launched on May 31, 2014 using the brand name “4G LTE multicast (eMBMS) trials for delivery of ClearVoice”. In December 2013 SingTel confirmed multimedia content. the launch of LTE data roaming in 6 countries within the region: Australia (Optus), Hong Kong (CSL Smart’s owner PLDT commercially launched LTE Limited), Indonesia (Telkomsel), Malaysia (Maxis), TDD BWA service branded HOME Bro Ultera on April South Korea (SK Telecom) and The Philippines 29, 2014 alongside its WiMAX™ service. PLDT used (Globe Telecom). 200 LTE TDD band 42 capable base station sites and plans to deploy 5,000 new sites to achieve 50% In June 2013 regulator IDA auctioned additional 1800 geographical coverage. MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum to all three incumbent mobile operators – SingTel Mobile, StarHub and M1 – Globe Telecom launched commercial LTE1800 which will be used for LTE. IDA adopted the APT700 service under the Tattoo brand on September 28, FDD band plan in June 2013. 2012 in Makati City, with plans to quickly expand to cover Manila, Cebu, Davao and select regions. South Korea
Bayan Telecommunications indicated interest to LG U Plus commercially launched LTE on July 1, deploy LTE in existing 1800 MHz spectrum. 2011 using 10 MHz of 850 MHz (band 5), achieving nationwide coverage by April 2012. Multi-carrier Singapore services were commercialized in July 2012 and released in 84 cities by July 18, 2013, with 10 MHz M1 launched commercial LTE services in the financial paired 2.1 GHz spectrum (band 1). LTE-Advanced district on June 21, 2011 using 2.6 GHz, later adding Carrier Aggregation technology was commercialized LTE1800. Nationwide coverage using dual band was on July 18, 2013, supporting up to 150 Mbps peak announced on September 15, 2012. The M1 network download by combining two paired 10 MHz now supports 150 Mbps peak and will support LTE- frequencies (850 MHz and 2.1 GHz bands) creating Advanced 300 Mbps (Cat 6) and VoLTE by end 2014. an effective bandwidth of 20 MHz paired. Results of a 3-carrier aggregation trial (850, 2100, 2600 MHz) with StarHub tested LTE in 2.6 GHz and 1800 MHz. An 300 Mbps downlink were announced in June 2014. LTE1800 network in refarmed 1800 MHz was Single-mode LTE service was commercially launched commercially launched on September 19, 2012 in the on July 20, 2013 and claimed to be a world first for Central Business District (CBD), Changi Airport and commercialization of single-mode LTE delivering LTE Singapore Expo. Coverage has expanded. 2.6 GHz data and HD voice service without WCDMA support. band 7 spectrum was brought into use in 2013. StarHub launched VoLTE-enabled HD Voice+ service LG U Plus gained 40 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum in on June 28, 2014 for its SmartSurf HD subscribers. August 8, 2013. In all, LG U Plus has secured a total of 80 MHz paired LTE spectrum made from 20 MHz SingTel launched commercial LTE service on of 800 MHz, 20 MHz of 2.1 GHz, and 40 MHz of 2.6 December 22, 2011 in 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and 2.6 GHz. Since December 30, 2013 LG U Plus claims to GHz spectrum. SingTel also trialled LTE overseas be the top operator servicing the broadest LTE
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bandwidth in the world at 80 MHz and offers LTE, combining two 10 MHz carriers (1.8 GHz and 800 LTE-Advanced and 20 MHz wideband LTE services MHz bands) to create an effective bandwidth of 20 using this full bandwidth. LG U Plus will provide MHz. SK Telecom began offering LTE-Advanced in Carrier Aggregation in wideband LTE mid-2014, Seoul and central areas of Gyeongg-do and supporting up to 225 Mbps peak download by Chungcheong-do, and is expanding LTE-Advanced to combining two different 20 MHz bandwidth 84 cities nationwide. The LTE-Advanced service was frequencies (800 MHz and 2.6 GHz). launched with the world’s first LTE-Advanced phone, Samsung Galaxy S4 LTE-A and 7 different LTE- LG U Plus claimed to be the first South Korean Advanced smartphones were introduced in 2H 2013. operator to deploy a tri-band multicarrier LTE system which automatically handles both voice and data SK Telecom won 20 MHz of 1800 MHz (LTE1800) in traffic, by using 850 MHz, 2.1 GHz and 2.6 GHz the August 2013 auction and began offering 150 spectrum. This service is initially available in Seoul Mbps LTE service using this wider bandwidth in 1800 and selected Greater Seoul areas, and is planned to MHz on September 30, 2013 with plans to expand be rolled out to other cities in March 2014, ahead of nationwide by July 2014. 225 Mbps (20 MHz 1800 nationwide coverage by July 2014. LG U Plus MHz + 10 MHz 800 MHz spectrum combined using announced 7.4 million LTE subscriptions by Q1 2014. carrier aggregation) peak downlink service was SK Telecom launched commercial LTE service in commercially launched on June 19, 2014 together Seoul on July 1, 2011 in 10 MHz in Band 5 (850 with a new Samsung Galaxy S5 for 225 Mbps. MHz). The company reached nationwide (84 cities) http://www.sktelecom.com/en/press/detail.do?idx=1075 coverage using this band by April 1, 2012. In December 2011 SK Telecom started deploying dual- SK Telecom began building LTE base stations using mode femtocells with LTE and Wi-Fi that, according 2.1 GHz spectrum in Q2 2014, preparing the network to the Small Cell Forum, were the first LTE femtocells for 3 band carrier aggregation (300 Mbps). SK has on a commercial network. In May 2012 SK Telecom also trialled FDD-TDD carrier aggregation. In April announced multi-carrier trials (LTE-Advanced) to 2014 SK Telecom claimed the world’s first allow combining of Band 5 and Band 3 spectrum. A commercialization of Uplink CoMP (Uplink multi-carrier LTE service was launched on July 1, Cooperative Multi-Point), and plans to apply the 2012, extending across all of Seoul by end 2012 and feature across the network by end 2014. to 23 other major cities by early 2013. SK Telecom said that this was the world's first commercialization On June 11, 2014 at Mobile Asia Expo 2014 in of Multi Carrier. Shanghai, SK Telecom working with its infrastructure partner and using LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation SK Telecom launched commercial VoLTE HD Voice to combine 200 MHz bandwidth (9 TDD carriers and (W-AMR) service in August 2012. SK Telecom 1 FDD carrier) achieved a peak downlink throughput informed GSA that the company has 10.14 million of 3.8 Gbps, which was claimed to be a world record. VoLTE users as of June 9, 2014 SK Telecom informed GSA that the company has SK Telecom announced start of international LTE over 15 million LTE (including LTE-Advanced) roaming service with Globe Telecom (Philippines) on subscribers users at mid-July 2014. http://nsn.com/news-events/press-room/press-releases/lte-throughput-leader- 1 April 2013, adding to existing roaming agreements nokia-sets-world-record-with-sk-telecom-of-close-to-4-gbps-using-tdd with CSL Ltd (Hong Kong) from June 1, 2012 and SingTel from March 1, 2013. SK Telecom announced KT commercially launched LTE services in Seoul on plans to launch quad-band LTE devices (850 MHz, January 3, 2012 in re-farmed 1800 MHz (Band 3) 1800 MHz, 2.1 GHz and 2.6 GHz) during Q2 2013. (LTE1800). KT announced on April 23, 2012 LTE coverage in 84 cities. KT commercially launched LTE-Advanced (Release 10) Carrier Aggregation was VoLTE service October 8, 2012 nationwide on the commercially launched by SK Telecom on June 26, whole LTE network. KT has delivered a 20 MHz 2013, claiming that Carrier Aggregation had been wideband 1800 MHz LTE service since mid- commercialized for the first time in the world, September 2013 by adding the additional 1800 MHz supporting up to 150 Mbps peak downlink by frequency bought by auction in August 2013 (see
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below). Therefore the peak downlink throughput is In 2013 MSIP set out a policy to assist WiBro 150 Mbps at 1800 MHz (LTE1800) supporting Cat 4 operators migrate to LTE TDD systems and devices and KT believes this is the first 20 MHz committed to release in 2014 a national plan for LTE wideband LTE service in the Korean market. By TDD market development. bringing into service an additional 5 MHz, a total of 15 MHz is currently allocated for the uplink. Korea Mobile Internet (KMI), a consortium of local MVNOs, has repeatedly applied for permission to In the area where KT provides 20 MHz wideband LTE deploy an LTE TDD network. If approved, KMI plans services, KT also provides 10 MHz multicarrier to launch services in all 85 major cities by October service by bringing into use 10 MHz of 900 MHz band 2015. KMI would operate a wholesale model to 8 spectrum. In addition KT is using Carrier MVNOs to retail services to their customers. Aggregation to combine 10 MHz B3 and 10 MHz B8 in the other area where 20 MHz wideband is not South Korea has allocated 2 x 20 MHz bandwidth in used. KT plans to support 20 MHz B3 combined with accordance with the APT700 FDD band plan. 10 MHz B8, subject to availability of UE terminals. KT recently confirmed its successful demonstration of Sri Lanka FDD-TDD carrier aggregation. Dialog Axiata commercially launched LTE TDD in KT announced commercial launch of the world’s first 2.3 GHz (band 40) via its DBN subsidiary on eMBMS-enabled LTE Broadcast service on January December 30, 2012 in Colombo. Dialog later acquired 27, 2014. The service is branded Olleh LTE Play and 10 MHz of 1800 MHz by auction and commercially targets consumers, currently delivered to Samsung launched LTE1800 on April 2, 2013 in Colombo. The Galaxy Note 3 users who have downloaded the Olleh LTE TDD system continues to be developed for fixed eMBMS application to stream 2 major channels. wireless services. In May 2013 the company announced it had gained an extra block of 2.3 GHz Regulator KCC conducted an auction in August 2011 following the acquisition of a pay TV operator. of spectrum blocks in 800, 1800 MHz and 2.1 GHz bands. SK Telecom and KT were barred from Mobitel (subsidiary of Sri Lanka Telecom) launched bidding for 2.1 GHz spectrum. Winners gained commercial LTE1800 service on December 31, 2012. immediate access to the new spectrum except for 800 MHz that was allocated from July 2012. SK Etisalat is deploying a commercial LTE network that Telecom won 20 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum. KT is expected to launch in 2014. won 10 MHz of 800 MHz spectrum. LG U Plus won 20 MHz in 2.1 GHz for LTE deployments. WiMAX™ and CDMA operator Lanka Bell commercially launched LTE TDD in band 40 on According to data from MSIP, SK Telecom had 13 February 4th, 2014 in parts of Colombo and Greater million LTE customers by November 2013, KT had 8 Colombo. million by early January 2014, and LG U Plus had 7.1 million by December 2013. Around half of mobile SLT commercially launched fixed wireless access phone users subscribed to LTE services. LTE TDD in band 38 (2.6 GHz) on January 19, 2014.
After around 50 rounds of bidding in August 2013, KT Taiwan won 15 MHz of new 1800 MHz spectrum next to its current holding used in its LTE network. This Chunghwa Telecom trialled LTE in 2.6 GHz and 700 allocation will enable introduction of Cat 4 (150 MHz, completed FDD and TDD tests on the high- Mbps). SK Telecom also acquired more 1800 MHz speed rail system using 2.6 GHz, and commercially channels. LG U Plus won spectrum in the 2.6 GHz launched the country’s first LTE network on May 29, band on August 8, 2013. LG U Plus therefore has 2014 using 900 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum. secured LTE spectrum in 800 MHz, 2.1 GHz and 2.6 GHz totaling 40 MHz paired. FarEastone commercially launched LTE using 700 MHz APT700 FDD band 28 spectrum on June 3,
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2014 and will introduce 1800 MHz band 3 spectrum Hon Hai (trading as Foxconn) is buying a stake in later using LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation. Asia Pacific Telecom with whom it plans to merge its recently-won 4G license. If successful Hon Hai’s Taiwan Mobile commercially launched its LTE launch date would be brought forward to mid-2015. network using 700 MHz APT700 FDD band 28 spectrum on June 4, 2014 and will introduce 1800 Star Mobile plans to launch LTE in Q3 2014. The MHz band 3 spectrum later using LTE-Advanced company plans to buy 3G/HSPA operator VIBO. carrier aggregation. Initial coverage is in 6 six metropolitan areas covering about 80% of the NCC is reported to be planning to auction 190 MHz of corresponding population, and the company plans to 2.6 GHz spectrum, covering FDD and TDD bands. reach 80 to 90% of the country’s population by end 2014. At launch the network comprised over 1,500 Thailand base stations, rising to over 4,000 by end 2014. Regulator NBTC approved trialling of LTE in 2.3 GHz Regulator NCC is consulting with FarEasTone and and 1800 MHz. TOT partnered with its concession Taiwan Mobile on a proposed exchange of 1800 MHz holder AIS to trial 2.3 GHz LTE TDD in 20 MHz of its spectrum. total 64 MHz allocation with 20 sites in central Bangkok in January 2012. Further co-operation had FarEasTone and China Mobile co-operated on an been planned but has since ended. LTE TDD trial in Taipei. The National Chiao Tung University conducted an LTE TDD trial in 2010. BWA Softbank has a partnership with TOT, which will focus operators Global Mobile, Tatung, FET and VMAX on joint development of a 2.3 GHz LTE TDD network have technology-neutral licences and can apply to using TOT's allocation of 64 MHz bandwidth. The first deploy different technologies, e.g. LTE. WiMAX™ test phase ran until May 2012. operator Global Mobile has requested approval to amend its licence to allow a switch to LTE TDD and AIS subsidiary Digital Phone Co joined with CAT began testing. PHS and WiMAX™ operator Fitel Telecom to test LTE1800 from mid-January 2012 in trialled LTE TDD for a year from July 1, 2011 in Maha Sarakham. The trial had 8 sites and ran until Taoyuan, and is expected to request the NCC to March 2012. TOT planned new trials involving up to allow migration from WiMAX to LTE if their trial 400 sites using 30 MHz of 2.3 GHz spectrum. proves successful. True Move commercially launched LTE service on NCC began an auction on September 3, 2013 for May 8, 2013 using 2100 MHz spectrum. 250,000 APT700, 900 and 1800 MHz bands totaling 135 MHz subscriptions were gained by April 2014. x 2, ending the following month. Results: DTAC – rebranded as TriNet, launched LTE service • Chunghwa Telecom won spectrum in the using 2100 MHz on May 10, 2014 in inner Bangkok. 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands Major business and residential districts are covered. • FarEasTone won APT700 and 1800 MHz DTAC subscribers with compatible devices and SIMs • Taiwan Mobile won APT700 and 1800 MHz will automatically connect to the LTE network when in • Hon Hai won APT700 and 900 MHz coverage. Full-scale service launch will follow after • Star Mobile won 900 MHz spectrum auctions are completed later this year. • Asia Pacific Telecom won APT700 NBTC delayed until July 2015 its proposed auction of http://www.ncc.gov.tw/english/content_field_detail.aspx?sit 2 licences for 12.5 MHz paired 1800 MHz spectrum e_content_sn=215&is_history=0&pages=0&sn_f=69 returned when licences expired in September 2013.
CDMA operator Asia Pacific Telecom is targeting Tonga LTE launch in Q3 2014. VoLTE is being deployed. The APT700 FDD band plan was adopted in 2012.
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Vanuatu Andorra
WanTok (formerly Can’l) commercially launched 2.3 Andorra Telecom is deploying an LTE network GHz (band 40) LTE TDD in Port Vila on April 1, 2014. targeting service launch in 2014. On April 30, 2014 regulator TRR launched a consultation on allocation of APT700 FDD spectrum Armenia for LTE. TRR proposes to offer the spectrum as lots of 2 x 5 MHz (up to a maximum per operator of two VivaCell-MTS commercially launched LTE in 20 MHz paired licenses made up of four 5 MHz Yerevan on December 28, 2011 in 2.6 GHz spectrum pairs). Comments are required by June 13, 2014. and has since been extended to Dilizhan, Gyumri, Download the consultation paper here: Tsakhnadzor. and Vanadzor, together representing http://www.trr.vu/index.php/en/public-register/consultations around 33% population coverage.
Vietnam Orange organized a public demonstration of LTE at the Orange Flagship Store November 4-5, 2010 and Regulator MIC authorized trials by VNPT, Viettel, has committed to deploy a commercial LTE network. FPT Telecom, CMC, VTC, EVN Telecom and Gtel. RusViet Telecom also trialled LTE in 2010 in Hanoi. ArmenTel (Beeline/Vimpelcom) plans to deploy LTE. Viettel said in May 2011 it was testing LTE in Hanoi and HCM City, offering dongles to 240 friendly users. Austria 700 MHz spectrum will be allocated after digital TV switchover, scheduled to begin in 2015 in big cities. Regulator RTR completed its 2.6 GHz auction on The government said in June 2012 that state-owned September 20, 2010, raising "39.5m from A1 Vinaphone and MobiFone will merge, subject to Telekom, Hutchison 3, T-Mobile and Orange. 14 approvals. The Authority of Radio Frequency paired and 9 unpaired blocks were sold. Management said 4G/LTE licensing will be delayed until 2015 unless there is a significant pick up in the A1 Telekom commercially launched LTE in Vienna market for high-speed data services. WiMAX™ and St. Pölten on November 5, 2010. The company operator Indochina Telecom is studying migration to announced in June 2013 it had successfully LTE TDD and is a member of the Global TD-LTE demonstrated the LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation Initiative (GTI). feature. A1 Telekom launched an LTE data roaming service with Swisscom in December 2013. The Europe company announced on January 29, 2014 that 800 MHz spectrum (band 20) was in service on over 200 sites. America Movil is in the process of taking over Abkhazia Telekom Austria Group, owner of A1 Telekom.
A-Mobile commercially launched LTE using band 20 T-Mobile Austria commercially launched LTE service spectrum on June 4, 2014 in Sukhumi and Gagra. using 2.6 GHz spectrum on July 28, 2011. In March 2014 the LTE network covered 2.1 million population. Aquafon announced LTE testing in Sukhumi in co- 150 Mbps theoretical peal downlink (Category 4 operation with Megafon. Aquafon announced in July device users) was launched in March 2014. The 2013 receipt of a licence to deploy LTE in 800 MHz company has tested carrier aggregation with 2.6 GHz spectrum in Sukhumi. 24 base stations have been and 1800 MHz spectrum, and is testing VoLTE. deployed ahead of service launch. 3 Austria commercially launched LTE FDD service in Åland Islands Vienna using 2.6 GHz on November 18, 2011. LTE TDD deployment in (band 38) is under study. 3 Ålands Telefonandelslag is currently trialling LTE Austria is awaiting approval to refarm 1800 MHz using 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800). spectrum for LTE, expected by the summer. Coverage is planned to reach 50% of population by
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end 2014 and 98% by 2015. Orange Austria tested Base commercially launched LTE1800 on October 1, LTE and won 2 x 10 MHz of 2.6 GHz in the 2010 2013. By May 2014 coverage was available to 50% of auction. Orange was taken over by Hutchison Group population, including in Brussels. Shortly 800 MHz (January 3, 2013) and is now part of 3 Austria. spectrum will also be brought into use. Base confirmed data speed of over 250 MBps in trials of RTR auctioned 28 blocks in the 800 MHz, 900 MHz LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation. and 1800 MHz bands and announced the results in October 2013: Mobistar has 800 MHz, 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and • A1 won 800 MHz, 900 MHz and 1800 MHz 2.6 GHz that can be used for LTE. On November 25, • T-Mobile won 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz 2013 Mobistar opened access to its network in 30 • H3G Austria won 900 MHz and 1800 MHz cities and towns to existing mobile data customers to try out LTE technology if they had an LTE-compatible Azerbaijan device and were on a compatible tariff plan. Mobistar later confirmed its commercial offer allowing 4G Azercell commercially launched LTE1800 on June access at no extra cost from March 31, 2014; at that 19, 2012. Over 260 sites were deployed by end 2013. time population coverage was 50%. Mobistar uses 800 MHz (band 20) and 1800 MHz (band Azerfon (Nar Mobile) is deploying an LTE network. 3/LTE1800). Coverage was extended to Brussels in May 2014. Mobistar has undertaken LTE-Advanced Bakcell is deploying a commercial LTE network for carrier aggregation testing by combining 20 MHz of service launch in 2014. 1800 MHz and 10 MHz of 800 MHz reaching 213 Mbps downlink and 41 Mbps uplink speeds. WiMAX™ operator Sazz (Azqtel) has 60 MHz of 3.5 GHz spectrum (bands 42, 43) and is deploying an Telenet trialled LTE in 2010 and in June 2011 LTE TDD network, targeting service launch Q3 2014. acquired 900, 1800, and 2100 MHz spectrum.
The ICT Ministry confirmed in August 2013 intention b•lite Telecom BVBA commercially launched an LTE to allocate band 20 for LTE. The government is TDD network using 3.5 GHz spectrum (band 42) in discussing a pilot LTE project to extend LTE the city of Aalst on April 22, 2014. Customers are coverage to the most remote areas. offered an indoor CPE device.
Belarus Regulator BIPT auctioned 4G licences for 77 million Euros, comprising 45 MHz of 2.6 GHz TDD spectrum MTS (in co-operation with Beltelcom) and BeST and 3 x 20 MHz paired blocks in 2.6 GHz for FDD (Life) completed LTE trials by May 1, 2011. systems. The auction ended November 28, 2011. New licences run for 15 years from July 1, 2012. LTE BeST (Life) has been trialling LTE and has 2 x 15 FDD spectrum was acquired by the three mobile MHz in 2.6 GHz for commercial network deployment. incumbents and TDD spectrum was won by new entrant BUCD (backed by Asian investors). The Start-up operator beCloud has a license with 1800 technology choice is understood to be TD-LTE. MHz (LTE1800) and 2.6 GHz spectrum and together with MTS is testing LTE-Advanced in Minsk. BIPT auctioned 3 x 10 MHz paired blocks of 800 MHz band 20 spectrum starting and finishing on November More 900 and 1800 MHz is expected to be allocated. 12, 2013. The 3 incumbent mobile networks each bid 800 MHz band 20 may be available by end 2015. 120 million Euros (the reserve price) for a 10 MHz paired block. There was no new market entrant. Belgium Bosnia and Herzegovina Belgacom (Proximus) commercially launched LTE1800 service on November 5, 2012. 2.6 GHz may Telekom Srpske (m:tel) tested 4G LTE technology in be used later where more capacity is needed. Banja Luka. BH Telecom is preparing for testing.
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Bulgaria service on March 23, 2012 with free mobile data access on its LTE network until end June 2012. Selected M-Tel customers in Sofia, Varna, Rousse and Dobrich have been testing a LTE1800 pilot Velatel (Novi-net) holds 42 MHz spectrum in 3.5 GHz network free of charge since January 2012. 900 MHz and is deploying an LTE TDD network since Q2 2012. and 1800 MHz spectrum can be used for LTE and LTE1800 is being deployed. VoLTE is also planned. In October 2012 regulator HAKOM announced the results of the digital dividend (800 MHz band 20) On January 6, 2012 VIVACOM confirmed receipt of spectrum auction. Three blocks were offered, permission from regulator CRC to start LTE testing however VIPNet and T-Hrvatski Telekom were the for which a network using 1800 MHz was built in only bidders, as Tele2 did not submit a bid. The total Sofia for trials up to June 2012. An LTE1800 raised from the auction was about " "40 million. VIPNet commercial network is now being deployed. acquired 2 x 10 MHz of this spectrum. The winners are required to achieve coverage to at least 50% of The Communications Regulation Commission (CRC) the territory in five years. stated December 15, 2011 that 3 technology-neutral licences for vacant 1800 MHz spectrum had been The remaining two blocks of 2 x 5 MHz were later granted to Max Telecom (2(2## 8 MHz), 4G Com EAD auctioned in a sealed bid process; 2 bids were (2(2 ## 8 MHz) and Bulsatcom (2 (2 ## 5 MHz). opened on October 28, 2013. HAKOM awarded the spectrum to bidders VIPNet and T-Hrvatski Telekom. WiMAX™ operator Max (formerly Max Telecom) commercially launched an LTE1800 network on May HAKOM has launched a consultation into use of 900 20, 2014 in Sofia, Ruse, Stara Zagora, Sliven, and and 1800 MHz for mobile broadband, including LTE. Bansko. The service is initially positioned for tablet users. VoLTE will be introduced in 2014. Cyprus
4G Com EAD is reported to be for sale. The Department of Electronic Communications published tender documents for an auction of 2.6 CRC is planning to auction 2.6 GHz spectrum blocks: GHz spectrum by August 31, 2013. On offer were: •• Five 22!! 5 MHz paired blocks (FDD) •• Three 20 MHz paired blocks (FDD) •• Three 5 MHz unpaired blocks (TDD) •• One 40 MHz unpaired block (TDD) No bids were made and the auction was cancelled. Croatia MVNO PrimeTel applied for the third mobile license T-Hrvatski Telekom commercially launched LTE in which incorporates 900, 1800 and 2100 MHz 10 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800) on March spectrum and would allow LTE to be deployed. 23, 2012 in Zagreb with free mobile data access on PrimeTel was the only bidder and will receive a its LTE network until October 1, 2012. Osijek, Rijeka licence. Their choice of technology is not known. and Split are now covered as well as 50% of Zagreb. Commercial LTE service using 800 MHz spectrum Czech Republic was introduced in December 2012 in Drenovaca, Josipdola, Koprivnice, Otocca, Ozlja and Petrinje. On O2 Czech Republic commercially launched LTE1800 May 14, 2014 the company announced completion of in Jesenice (west district of Prague) on June 19, LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation testing, which 2012. Service is being extended to more areas of the combined 10 MHz paired of 1800 MHz and 10 MHz city in May 2013 and Brno was covered in October paired of 800 MHz sprectrum to achieve 136 Mbps. 2013. On July 15, 2014 the company announced availability of higher LTE speeds (peak 110 Mbps VIPNet demonstrated LTE in 800 MHz in March 2011 uplink, 55 Mbps downlink) as a result of increasing and launched a trial for 20 consumers on September the bandwidth allocated for its LTE service. LTE- 1 2011 in Novi Zagreb using 800 and 1800 MHz Advanced service combining 10 MHz of 800 MHz and spectrum. VIPNet commercially launched LTE1800
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20 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum (achieving 185 Mbps) May 10, 2010, awarding spectrum to Hi3G Denmark has been introduced in the town of $$ernovice. ApS;; TDC A/S;; Telia Nättjänster Norden AB; and Telenor A/S. On October 12, 2010 Telestyrelsen T-Mobile commercially launched LTE1800 on announced that Hi3G Denmark had been granted October 1, 2013 in Prague and Mlada Boleslav 900 and 1800 MHz spectrum, which could be used to (theoretical peak downlink of 150 Mbps), using 800 deploy 2G, 3G or LTE technologies nationally. MHz in rural areas. In May 2014 T-Mobile launched 800 MHz LTE in Plze%%-jih Pilsen Region and start of a Telia launched the country’s first commercial LTE two-month trial phase. By end 2014 T-Mobile targets system on December 9, 2010 in Copenhagen, for 51% population and 73% geographic coverage Aarhus, Odense and Aalborg in 2.6 GHz (20 MHz). with LTE. A VoLTE trial is planned by end 2014. T- On October 10, 2011 LTE commercial service was Mobile launched LTE-Advanced service combining 10 introduced using 10 MHz of 1800 MHz (LTE1800) as MHz of 800 MHz and 20 MHz of 1800 MHz with peak a complement to 2.6 GHz. Tri-band 800/1800/2600 downlink speed of 225 Mbps in Mlada Boleslav. MHz LTE dongles and routers are available.
T-Mobile and O2 Czech Republic extended network Telenor and Telia agreed to merge 4G/LTE, 3G and sharing to include 4G/LTE and LTE-Advanced. 2G networks into a JV called TT-Netværket P/S. 4G sharing uses LTE1800 and LTE800. On June 4, 2013 Vodafone announced launch of a 20-site LTE1800 trial Karlovy Vary in Carlsbad. On Telenor commercially launched LTE1800 and 2.6 December 10, 2013 Vodafone announced GHz service on March 20, 2013, covering 192 towns commercial launch of LTE using 900 MHz in areas and cities, representing 75% of the population. In around Litom&' &' ice, the northern part of the Plze%% January 2014 the company announced rebranding of region and some areas in the Liberec region. its 3G/4G networks to “NU” (meaning Now). Nationwide coverage is planned by end 2014. LTE1800 is in service in Karlovy Vary. On March 4, TDC launched commercial 2.6 GHz LTE service on 2014 Vodafone announced launch of dual carrier (for October 10, 2011 in Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, Category 4 devices) i.e. theoretical 150 Mbps peak Aalborg, Esbjerg, Randers, Kolding, Horsens, Vejle, downlink speed, using part of the spectrum obtained Roskilde. 800 MHz came into use in early 2013. in the November 2013 auction (see below). LTE tests with 800 MHz band 20 began in June 2014. 3 Denmark is deploying an LTE FDD network combined with 25 MHz of TDD spectrum, and In September 2011, regulator CTU issued terms and launched its commercial LTE FDD service using 1800 conditions for a planned auction of 800, 1800 and (LTE1800) and 2600 MHz spectrum on September 2600 MHz. CTU said that the 1800 MHz spectrum 28, 2012, at the same time introducing the iPhone 5. was reserved for a possible new entrant. The auction started on November 12, 2012 with 4 bidders (three TDC and TT-Netværket P/S were awarded 800 MHz incumbents plus PPF Mobile Services) but was spectrum in the auction which closed on June 26, cancelled on March 8, 2013 due to “excessively high 2012. TDC won 2 x 20 MHz and TT-Netværket won 2 prices” which was felt could lead to high prices for x 10 MHz. 739.3 million Danish Kr (approx USD consumers. The auction was replayed according to 124.3 million) was paid for 5 blocks of spectrum on new rules, starting on November 11, 2013. 800 MHz offer (four 2 x 5 MHz blocks, one 2 x 10 MHz block). spectrum was reserved for new entrants however no new player came forward and the replayed auction Estonia resulted in spectrum being allocated to incumbents. 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz can also be used for LTE. Regulator TJA awarded LTE licences in 2.6 GHz spectrum to incumbent mobile operators EMT,, Elisa Denmark and Tele2 plus fixed-line operator Elion Enterprises.. TJA announced on December 16, 2011 that EMT, Regulator Telestyrelsen concluded an auction of Elisa and Tele2 are permitted to deploy mobile 2500-2690 MHz and 2010-2020 MHz spectrum on broadband technologies e.g. LTE in 1800 MHz band.
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A consultation was simultaneously launched on the •• TeliaSonera acquired five blocks of 2 x 5 MHz procedures for allocating digital dividend spectrum. and launched an LTE network on June 2, 2010 for pre-commercial use in the city of Turku EMT launched the first commercial LTE service in •• DNA obtained 40 MHz Estonia on December 17, 2010 in 2.6 GHz in Tallinn, Tartu, Kohila, and at the IT College of Tallinn Finland was the first country in Europe to allow 1800 University of Technology. On December 19, 2011 MHz spectrum to be used for LTE deployments. EMT announced start of LTE network deployment in 1800 MHz. Commercial service is now delivered TeliaSonera launched the first commercial LTE using 2.6 GHz, 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and from June service in Finland on November 30, 2010 in Turku 2013, 800 MHz helped the company to achieve 95% and Helsinki, using 2.6 GHz spectrum. LTE1800 was population coverage six months ahead of schedule, commercially launched as a complement to 2.6 GHz and has since reached 99% population coverage. on August 31, 2011. In October 2013 TeliaSonera said its LTE network covered 40% of the population. Tele2 Estonia commercially launched LTE in Tallinn using 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and 2.6 GHz on Elisa commercially launched a 2.6 GHz LTE network November 27, 2012. 8.3 MHz of additional 1800 MHz for corporate users on December 8, 2010, and spectrum was acquired at end 2011. On March 11, announced its first client. The company launched 2014 Tele2 announced the company had doubled its LTE2600/LTE1800 service combined with DC- 2.1 GHz holding, which can be used immediately for HSPA+ for consumers on November 17, 2011. LTE 3G and can be used later in its LTE network. The service reached 230 locations by October 2013. 800 company is deploying 300 Mbps LTE-Advanced in a MHz was brought into use in January 2014. number of cities. the first 800 MHz (band 20) site was launched on May 9, 2014. On February 11, 2014 it was announced that Elisa had carried out LTE-Advance tests demonstrating up Elisa commercially launched LTE on February 14, to 300 Mbps downlink data speed over its live 2013 using 1800 MHz (LTE1800), plus 2.6 GHz in network. Partners for the test included Broadcom who urban areas. Commercial service was extended using provided Category 6 device technology using carrier 800 MHz acquired in August 2013. By end 2013 LTE aggregation with two 20 MHz channels of 1800 MHz covered 95% of territory and 97% of the population. (Band 3) and 2.6 GHz spectrum (Band 7). Elisa has trialled 300 Mbps LTE-Advanced in Tallinn Press release: using carrier aggregation combining 20 MHz of 800 http://www.broadcom.com/press/release.php?id=s824740 MHz and 20 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum. Elisa is targeting launch in Tallinn in 2H 2014. DNA Oy commercially launched LTE on December 13, 2011. DNA uses 1800 MHz (LTE1800) with 2.6 Tele2 beat cable operator Starman for the remaining GHz for populated areas where extra capacity is block of 800 MHz. Tele2 plans 95% geographical required. 800 MHz was launched in January 2014 in coverage by mid-2014. Lohja. LTE coverage is planned to reach 80% of the population by end 2014. 1800 MHz spectrum was refarmed in March 2014 and guard bands were removed to allow more efficient An auction of 800 MHz spectrum (band 20) in six 55 use for LTE deployments. MHz paired blocks (791 – 812 MHz paired with 832 – 862 MHz) started on January 24, 2013 for licences Finland with 20 years duration. The results were announced on October 30, 2013. The winners were DNA, Elisa 20-year 2.6 GHz licences were auctioned by regulator and TeliaSonera Finland. 800 MHz spectrum could FICORA on 23 November 2009: be used from January 1, 2014. •• Elisa obtained 50 MHz, and launched a pre- commercial trial in Helsinki on June 2, 2010 CDMA450 operator Ukko Mobile is deploying an LTE450 network for commercial launch by end 2014.
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Fixed broadband operator Anvia is trialling LTE using 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800). Coverage increased 700 MHz spectrum in Lapua. to 69% by March 2014. The company is trialling 800 MHz spectrum (band 20). Bouygues Telecom trialled France LTE-Advanced technology in October 2013 using carrier aggregation with 800 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2.6 FT/Orange launched a pilot LTE network in Marseille GHz spectrum combinations. The company in June 2012. Coverage in Lyon, Lille and Nantes commercially launched 220 Mbps LTE-Advanced was added later. Marketing to corporate customers service in Bordeaux, Lyon, Grenoble, Vanves, Issy- began on November 22, 2012. Consumer services les-Moulineaux, Malakoff and Rosny-sous-Bois with began in February 2013. Service was introduced in devices for sale from July 1, 2014, smartphones from Paris in February 2013. 58% of the French September 2014. Different combinations of spectrum population coverage was claimed by April 2014. The are used according to the location. At the same time network uses 2.6 GHz and 800 MHz. LTE-Advanced Bouygues Telecom is increasing 1800 MHz spectrum technology combining 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz was allocation from 10 MHz to 15 MHz in a number of commercially introduced in Strasbourg and Toulouse cities. VoLTE is in deployment. in July 2014. VoLTE is planned. SFR and Orange may also request permission to use SFR launched commercial LTE service on November some or all of their 1800 MHz holdings for LTE. 28, 2012 in Lyon and in Montpellier on December 18, 2012 and uses 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. The Free Mobile commercially launched LTE service La Defense business region of Paris went live in claiming 150 Mbps theoretical peak downlink speed, January 2013, and Marseille in March 2013. SFR has using 2.6 GHz spectrum on December 1, 2013. The accelerated rollout and achieved 40% population company has 700 4G sites covering more than 1,000 coverage by end 2013. LTE-Advanced CA trials have towns and cities (as of 1 December), which is “set to been completed in Marseille using 800 MHz and 2.6 rapidly increase with several hundred new 4G sites GHz ahead of a planned wider commercial launch by coming on stream in the next few weeks.” end 2014. SFR plans to launch VoLTE in 2015. WiMAX™ operator Bollore Telecom plans to Bouygues Telecom trialled LTE1800 in 10 MHz introduce LTE TDD system in band 42 (3.5 GHz) and using 2 x 2 MIMO at sites in Orléans and ran a pilot is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative. network in Lyon from June 2012. Germany Regulator ARCEP auctioned 2.6 GHz spectrum and confirmed the successful bidders and allocations: A multiband spectrum auction was completed in May • Bouygues: 2535-2550 MHz/2655-2670 MHz 2010, covering 360 MHz in 4 bands: 800 MHz (digital • Free Mobile: 2550-2570 MHz/2670-2690 MHz dividend), 1800 MHz, 2.1 GHz, 2.6 GHz. All 4 • FT/Orange: 2515-2535 MHz/2635-2655 MHz incumbents acquired 2.6 GHz to be used for LTE. • SFR: 2500-2515 MHz/2620-2635 MHz Telefonica O2, Vodafone and Deutsche Telekom (but not E Plus) additionally acquired 800 MHz On January 17, 2012 ARCEP announced 800 MHz spectrum for LTE. The 800 MHz spectrum raised spectrum had been won by Orange, SFR and "3.576 billion, i.e. over 81.5% of the auction’s total Bouygues Telecom, each receiving 2 x 10 MHz. value. E Plus is able to use 900 MHz spectrum (in Bouygues Telecom commercially launched LTE which HSPA+ will be deployed) also for LTE if it does using 2.6 GHz on May 6, 2013 in Lyon, Strasbourg, not cause interference with other mobile networks. Issy-les-Moulineaux, Vanves, Malakoff, and Toulouse. The company requested permission from E Plus completed LTE trials in 2.1 GHz, 1800 MHz, ARCEP to use its 1800 MHz for LTE. Approval was 2.6 GHz and LTE TDD 2.6 GHz. E-Plus is a member given for use from October 1, 2013 subject to of the Global TD-LTE Initiative. Since July 2011 the E spectrum disposal conditions. On October 1, 2013 the Plus HQ building has LTE1800 trial coverage and company extended coverage to 63% of the having received re-farming approval in January 2013 population with commercial LTE launch in refarmed the company commercial launched its LTE1800
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network on March 6, 2014 for customers in Berlin, WiMAX™ operator Deutsche Breitband Dienste Leipzig and Nürnberg. VoLTE is planned. (DBD) has a licence with 42 to 70 MHz of 3.5 GHz spectrum nationwide and plans to deploy LTE TDD. Vodafone launched the first rural LTE mobile Regulator BNetz is consulting on post-2016 broadband service across Germany on December 1, requirements for channels in the 900 and 1800 MHz 2010 and plans to upgrade all base stations to LTE. bands (GSM assignments expire in December 2016). By mid-2014 LTE service had 70% geographical coverage. In August 2013 Vodafone announced it Georgia had increased the theoretical peak downlink speed to 150 Mbps using 2.6 GHz spectrum in Dortmund, Magticom is trialling LTE and LTE1800 is an option. Dresden, Dusseldorf and Munich with other cities to follow over the next weeks. LTE-Advanced carrier Greece aggregation using band 7 and band 20 spectrum was trialled in Dresden. Cosmote completed LTE testing in 900 and 1800 MHz including a pilot network running at its technical Deutsche Telekom (DT) commercially launched its and network HQ near Athens. An extended cell “Call & Surf Comfort via Funk” LTE service in 800 technology trial was completed in 2011. Cosmote MHz on April 5, 2011. In February 2011 the company commercially launched LTE1800 on November 16, announced plans to launch LTE using 1800 MHz 2012 in Athens and Thessaloniki. Coverage is now (LTE1800) and 2.6 GHz. The “Speedstick LTE” over 60% of population, targeting 70% by end 2014. dongle was offered from Q3 2011 supporting LTE in 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz bands plus DC-HSPA+, Vodafone commercially launched a limited LTE1800 HSPA and WCDMA in 2100 MHz, and EDGE/GPRS. service (users with dongles or personal hotspots) on The company commercially launched LTE in Cologne December 17, 2012 in Athens. Full commercial on July 1, 2011 in 1800 MHz (LTE1800). Peak launch was in June 2013. VoLTE has been trialled. downlink throughput was increased to 150 Mbps in September 2013 and is now in over 150 cities. Regulator EETT completed its 900 and 1800 MHz technology-neutral auction on November 14, 2011 to DT tested an LTE 4!4 MIMO system, capable of a incumbents Cosmote, Vodafone and Wind raising theoretical 250 Mbps peak download. DT confirmed 380.5 million Euros. Operators will deploy LTE in in early September 2013 plans to upgrade to LTE- either or both bands. EETT is consulting on potential Advanced. DT is also deploying VoLTE. granting of technology neutral licences in 3.4-3.8 GHz spectrum. On May 30, 2014 EETT launched a new Telefonica O2 commercially launched LTE service consultation about 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. on July 1, 2011 in rural areas using digital dividend Comments were required by June 30, 2014. (800 MHz) spectrum, marketing the service as "O2 LTE für Zuhause (at home). On July 3, 2012 O2 Greenland commercially launched mobile LTE service in urban areas, initially Nuremberg and Dresden, followed by Tele-Post Greenland commercially launched LTE in other major cities including Berlin and Munich on Nuuk on December 1, 2013 in 800 MHz (band 20) for March 31, 2013. More cities were added in 2013 and mobile broadband users. Coverage was extended to LTE coverage has reached 40% of the population.In Sisimiut on March 28, 2014 and reached 50% of the November 2013 O2 Germany announced deployment country’s population by end June 2014. of 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz carrier aggregation in some base stations enabling theoretical downlink Hungary speed up to 225 Mbps using prototype Cat 6 devices. VoLTE including SRVCC has been activated Magyar Telekom (MT) commercially launched LTE successfully in a trial area in the live network. technology-based services in the 1800 MHz band on Telefonica O2 plans to take over E Plus. Regulatory January 1, 2012 initially covering 10 districts of approvals are required; the deal may close mid-2014. Budapest (over 40% of Budapest’s population was covered). By the end of year 2013, LTE1800 was
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launched in 88 settlements covering 38% of the total Ireland Hungarian population outdoor. Magyar Telekom announced in April 2014 completion of LTE- Regulator ComReg launched the auction process on Advanced carrier aggregation tests, combining 1800 May 25, 2012 to cover the 800, 900 and 1800 MHz MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. bands for the period 2013-2030. In total 140 MHz of paired spectrum was offered. The results were Telenor Hungary commercially launched LTE on announced on November 15, 2012. Meteor, July 5, 2012 using 1800 MHz (LTE1800) branded Telefónica O2 and Vodafone were each awarded Hipernet 84. Telenor offers 84 Mbps maximum blocks in the 800 MHz band. Hutchison 3 Ireland, nominal download speed in 60 towns covering Meteor, Telefónica and Vodafone were each awarded 700,000 population (July 2012), which was expanded spectrum in both the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands. to 76 towns by February 2013. The network was upgraded in October 2013 to support 150 Mbps peak Meteor commercially launched LTE service using downlink using additional 1800 MHz spectrum (total 800 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum on September 26, 20 MHz paired). 2013 in Dublin, Carlow and Athlone, covering 1.2 million customers, almost 30% of the population. Vodafone Hungary announced completion of second phase trials of LTE on June 1, 2011. A commercial Vodafone commercially launched data-only LTE LTE network is planned. service in 800 MHz (band 20) on October 14, 2013 in 6 cities and 23 towns. Smartphones were supported On May 22, 2014 regulator NMHH launched auction from December 10, 2013 at which time LTE coverage procedures for a proposed sale of 800 MHz, 900 in an additional 8 towns was confirmed. MHz, 1800 MHz & 2.6 GHz spectrum. 4 applications were made by the June 16, 2014 deadline. 3 Ireland commercially launched LTE1800 on January 27, 2014 at no additional charge to current Iceland data plans until July 31, 2014 with over 60% coverage initially in Galway, Limerick and Waterford. Nova commercially launched LTE1800 on April 4, 2013 in Reykjavik and is currently testing 800 MHz. O2 Ireland plans commercial launch of LTE in 2014, Nova won an auction for 1800 MHz and 800 MHz and in September 2013 commenced trials in the cities spectrum for LTE in March 2013, alongside Fjarskipti of Dublin, Cork and Galway. Its parent Telefonica (Vodafone) and Simmin. has announced the intended sale of O2 Ireland to Hutchison 3. The EU granted approval at the end of Fjarskipti commercially launched LTE using 800 May 2014, subject to concessions being made. MHz on July 4th, 2013. The company advised GSA that 1800 MHz (LTE1800) will also be used later. Imagine Group has about 220 MHz of 3.5 GHz spectrum (bands 42, 43) in all strategic parts of the Regulator PTA has approved a network sharing country and is currently operating a WiMAX 802.16e agreement proposed by Nova and Fjarskipti. network nationally. The company has informed GSA of its intention to upgrade this network to LTE TDD in Siminn commercially launched LTE1800 on January early 2014 and is currently conducting trials of LTE. 15, 2014 using 2 x 20 MHz 1800 MHz spectrum Imagine is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative. offering 100/50 Mbps data speed with CSFB voice. ComReg is considering the future of the 2.6 GHz New entrant 365 Media won 800 MHz spectrum and band including a review of the operation of existing plans to cover 99.5% of the population by end 2016. licences within this spectrum which are used for the provision of Pay TV services and MMDS. All MMDS PTA launched a consultation in 2013 about future use licences expire on April 18, 2014. ComReg proposes of 2.6 GHz. Vodafone requested an extension to its that the current MMDS licences should be renewed MMDS in the band from June 2014 until 2020, for 2 years i.e. to April 18, 2016 and that a however a 2 year extension only was approved. competitive process be implemented to award new
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licences on a service and technology neutral basis – LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation was launched in which could be used e.g. for MMDS or LTE services. July 2014, combining spectrum in band 3 and band 7.
In September 2013 ComReg launched a consultation WiMAX™ operator AFT-Linkem is licensed in 13 about allocating unsold 1800 MHz spectrum. In regions and plans to introduce 3.5 GHz LTE TDD. A January 2014 ComReg announced that no bids had trial was started in June 2013. Customers will be been received and the spectrum remains unsold. offered dual mode WiMAX™ / LTE CPE terminals.
Italy Jersey
Italy’s spectrum auction closed with the four Clear Mobitel announced September 17, 2010 it had incumbents TIM, Vodafone Italy, Wind and 3 Italia a 2.6 GHz LTE test license. submitting bids totalling over " 3.9 billion. Spectrum was awarded in 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz bands for On July 23, 2014 regulator CICRA confirmed LTE- use from end 2011 (1800 MHz), end 2012 (2.6 GHz), suitable spectrum had been awarded to applicants and January 2013 (800 MHz). JT, Sure and Airtel. http://www.cicra.gg/_files/media%20release%204G%20spectrum%20230 3 Italia launched a small-scale trial in Acuto on 714.pdf November 6, 2012. Commercial service was Kazakhstan launched in Milan and Rome on February 1, 2013 using 1800 MHz (LTE1800). 3 Italia plans to Altel (CDMA operator) (JSC Kazakhtelecom and JSC introduce LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation of 1800 ALTEL) commercially launched LTE1800 branded MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. 3 Italia acquired TDD ALTEL4G in Astana and Almaty on December 25, spectrum (band 38) for future deployment. 2012, extended to Aktau, Aktobe, Atyrau, Karaganda, Ust-Kamenogorsk and Shymkent in December 2013. Wind has spectrum for LTE in 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz Altel confirmed 110,000 LTE subscriptions by and commercially launched Category 4 with 800 MHz December 31, 2013. VoLTE is in deployment. on January 12, 2014. According to Wind’s Q1 2014 results, LTE is available in Rome, Milan, Bologna, Tele2 is interest to deploy LTE. Kcell plans to deploy Turin, Padova and main airports, and will be available LTE and on July 29, 2010 announced installation of a in 17 largest cities by the end of 2014. base station in Astana to showcase LTE. On April 26, 2010 Beeline confirmed completion of LTE tests in Vodafone Italy announced it had secured 60 MHz of 700 MHz, and in October 2010 announced launch of new spectrum, comprising 2 x 10 MHz in 800 MHz, 2 a pilot network in Almaty. TeliaSonera acquired the x 5 MHz in 1800 MHz, and 2 x 15 MHz in 2.6 GHz. WiMAX™ operations of Alem Communications Vodafone commercially launched LTE1800 service including a network in 6 major cities and 2.6 GHz on November 6, 2012 in Milan and Rome. By end (band 38) spectrum, which is compatible for other June 2013 LTE service was available in 40 cities. In technologies e.g. LTE TDD. February 2014 Vodafone announced that its LTE- Advanced trial in Naples, which combined 1800 MHz Frequencies to be allocated by the government for and 2.6 GHz spectrum using carrier aggregation, LTE include 700/800 MHz, 2.3 GHz and 2.6 GHz. achieved over 250 Mbps downlink data speed. Kosovo Telecom Italia (TIM) launched its LTE program in 2009 followed by trials. A public users trial was Vala is deploying an LTE network for end 2014 launched in Turin February 16-22, 2012. TIM has service launch. System suppliers are announced. spectrum for LTE in 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz bands. Commercial service was launched on November 7, Kyrgyzstan 2012 using LTE1800 in Rome, Milan, Turin and Naples. TIM stated that LTE coverage was available Saima Telecom launched commercial 2.6 GHz FDD in 651 municipalities by end 2013. A public trial of LTE services in Bishkek on December 9, 2011.
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According to reports, the National Communications an auction of 800 MHz (band 20) licences comprising Agency allocated spectrum for LTE and WiMAX© to one 10 MHz paired plus 4x 5 MHz paired blocks: 12 companies: Bite won 791-801 / 832-842 MHz AsiaInfo, Global Telecom Asia, ToTel, Aknet, Omnitel: 801-806/842-847 & 806-811/847-852 Kurulush Invest, T-Com, Fraton Plus, Aytel, Foris MHz Telecom, WTT, Saima Telecom and Intranet KG. Tele2: 811-816/852-857 & 816-821/857-862 MHz
Nur Telecom branded as O! commercially launched Omnitel commercially launched LTE on April 28, LTE in Bishkek on May 8, 2014 using 2.6 GHz (band 2011 in Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaip(da, )iauliai and 7) supporting theoretical peak downlink of 150 Mbps. Panev(*ys using 1800 MHz (LTE1800). Omnitel won 2 x 20 MHz of 2.6 GHz in the March 2012 auction. Latvia The LTE network covered 65% population by June 2014 with the use of 800 MHz spectrum. LMT commercially launched LTE1800 on May 31, 2011 and had over 1 million LTE subs by Q1 2014. Tele2 won 2 x 20 MHz of 2.6 GHz and commercially launched LTE in Alytus, Jonava, Marijampole, Tele2 commercially launched LTE for modems and Mazeikiai, and Utena in March 2013. 1800 MHz was routers in December 2013 using 1800 MHz spectrum used from September 2013. 800 MHz is also used. (LTE1800). Tele2 also purchased 800 MHz spectrum which can be used from July 1, 2015. Tele2 plans to Bite Lithuania is deploying LTE and obtained 2 x 20 reach 90% population coverage by end 2015. MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum in the auction.
Bite is deploying a commercial LTE network. Luxembourg
Fixed operator Lattelecom is reported to be ready to Regulator Institute Luxembourgeois de Régulation offer LTE services, subject to shareholder approval (ILR) introduced technology neutral licences for and carried out tests in 850 MHz in 2011. POST, Orange and Tango and granted extra 1800 MHz spectrum at their request. CDMA operator Triatel tested LTE in 800 MHz. • Tango commercially launched LTE1800 on Triatel owns 450 MHz spectrum. October 1, 2012. • Orange commercially launched LTE1800 on After a day and half of bidding starting January 2, October 29, 2012. 74% population coverage 2012 LMT, Tele2, Bite and Baltcom gained new 2.6 was achieved by June 2014. GHz spectrum for use from January 1, 2014. 4.7 • POST (formerly P&T) commercially launched million Euros was raised from a subsequent auction LTE1800 in October 2013. of 800 MHz (band 20) spectrum in October 2013. Bite, LMT and Tele2 each won 2 x 10 MHz. Macedonia
Liechtenstein Regulator AEC held an auction for 800 MHz (band 20) and 1800 MHz spectrum. VIP mobile, ONE Orange commercially launched LTE1800 on (Telekom Slovenije Group) and T-Mobile were each September 2, 2013 with 91% population coverage. awarded blocks of 2x 10 MHz in 800 MHz and 2x 15 Enhancement of peak theoretical downlink speed MHz in 1800 MHz spectrum. from the current 100 Mbps to 150 Mbps is planned. T-Mobile commercially launched LTE service using Lithuania 800 MHz and 1800 MHz on December 2, 2013 in most of Skopje and Mavrovo for customers owning Regulator RRT confirmed 2.6 GHz auction result on LTE devices and the appropriate type of SIM. March 20, 2012. Winners were Omnitel, Tele2 and Bite. In October 2013 RRT announced the results of
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VIP commercially launched its LTE network using 800 Crnogorski Telekom commercially launched MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum on July 2nd, 2014. LTE1800 on November 28, 2013 having deployed 18 new base stations in Podgorica, Nik-i., Budva, Bar, ONE began LTE-related activities in 2012 and is Kotor, Tivat and Herceg Novi, representing 38% committed to deploying a commercial LTE network. population coverage. 150 Mbps has been introduced in parts of the network. Malta Velatel (Montenegro Connect) has 40 MHz in 3.5 Vodafone commercially launched LTE1800 on GHz and is deploying an LTE TDD network. November 1, 2013 in Valletta, Sliema and St. Julians. Netherlands Regulator MCA intends to apply technology neutrality in 2014 to current 3G / 2.1 GHz spectrum licences. 2.6 GHz FDD spectrum was auctioned in April 2010, and awarded to KPN, Vodafone, T-Mobile, Ziggo 4 Moldova and Tele2. TDD spectrum was unsold.
Following receipt of a 2.6 GHz license from regulator Vodafone NL commercially launched LTE using 2.6 ANRCETI a few days earlier, Orange commercially GHz in Eindhoven on May 1, 2012. Amsterdam, The launched LTE on November 20, 2012 in Chi+in,u. By Hague, Rotterdam, and Utrecht followed on August 5, November 2013 LTE reached 10 cities i.e. 30% of the 2013 using 800 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum. population. 150 Mbps (Cat 4) was offered in 12 major Vodafone plans to launch VoLTE in mid-2015. In cities from February 28, 2014. March 2014 Vodafone completed LTE-Advanced laboratory trials combining 10 MHz of band 3 with 20 Moldcell launched LTE service for corporate MHz of band 3 spectrum and in June 2014 confirmed customers in newly-acquired 2.6 GHz spectrum on plans to deploy 225 Mbps by end 2014. November 16, 2012. Commercial service was Ziggo commercially launched LTE on May 3, 2012 extended to all customers on December 24, 2012. for Internet Plus business users in Breda, Oss, and Zwolle. CDMA operator InterDnestrCom (IDC) launched commercial LTE service in 800 MHz in Trans- Tele2 NL commercially launched LTE on May 8, Dniester in the capital Tiraspol, connecting its first 2012 in Amstelveen, Amsterdam, Haarlem, Lelystad customer April 21, 2012. and Tilburg. The company plans to launch VoLTE. 800 MHz will be brought into use. ANRCETI offered 4G licences to each of the 3 mobile networks for spectrum in the ranges 2500-2690 MHz KPN commercially launched LTE in 2.6 GHz on May and 3600-3800 MHz. Each license cost EUR10 11, 2012 in The Hague and Utrecht for business million. ANRCETI also plans a public tender for a users. Commercial service using 800 MHz was license to use 3750-3800 MHz spectrum. launched in Amsterdam in February 2013. Refarmed 1800 MHz (LTE1800) was brought into use in 2014. Monaco The LTE network now covers over 95% population. Several international roaming partnerships have been Monaco Telecom commercially launched 2.6 GHz announced. KPN trialled LTE Broadcast technology LTE on October 1, 2013 in 98% of the Principality. during an Ajax soccer game in Amsterdam on May 3rd, 2014. KPN commercially launched LTE-Advanced Montenegro carrier aggregation combining band 3 and band 20 spectrum on July 1, 2014 initially in Amsterdam, Telenor commercially launched LTE using 2.6 GHz Schiphol, Rotterdam, Utrecht, The Hague and on November 8, 2012 in the municipalities of Eindhoven where a large portion of KPN’s 4G Podgorica, Bar, Niksic and Cetinje. customers live. A VoLTE trial was started in July 2014.
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T-Mobile commercially launched LTE on May 11, TeliaSonera won 2 x 10 MHz of 800 MHz, 2 x 10 2012 for business users in Delft, Gorinchem, Leiden, MHz of 1800 MHz and 2 x 5 MHz of 900 MHz. Rotterdam and The Hague in 2.6 GHz. LTE1800 was brought into service for the consumer launch on Telco Data won 2 x 10 MHz of 800 MHz and 2 x 5 November 18, 2013. MHz of 900 MHz and 2 x 20 MHz of 1800 MHz. Regulator OPTA started an auction of 800, 900 and NPT plans to auction the unsold 15 MHz of paired 1800 MHz spectrum on October 31, 2012. 2 x 10 1800 MHz spectrum on January 26, 2015. MHz of 800 MHz and 2 x 5 MHz of 900 MHz was reserved for new entrants. The sale to KPN, Poland Vodafone and T-Mobile achieved 3.8 billion Euros. Ziggo-UPC withdrew. The world’s first LTE1800 network was deployed by Aero2 and commercially launched on September 7, Norway 2010 by Mobyland and CenterNet. The primary customer is Cyfrowy Polsat – an MVNO, who Norway held Europe’s first 2.6 GHz spectrum auction launched commercial services on August 30, 2011. in 2007, Awards were made to TeleNor and (GSA does not categorize MVNOs as “networks” - TeliaSonera (NetCom); total allocation 2 x 90 MHz. therefore Cyfrowy Polsat is not included in GSA’s list of commercially launched LTE networks). TeliaSonera launched the world’s first LTE networks In November 2009 Aero2, a member of the Global in Oslo (NetCom) and Sweden using 2.6 GHz TD-LTE Initiative, acquired 50 MHz in Band 38 for spectrum in December 2009. TeliaSonera also LTE TDD. After testing in Aleksandrów /ódzki and commercially used refarmed 1800 MHz (LTE1800) in /ód0, Aero2 announced launch of their LTE TDD its NetCom network from Q4 2011. 800 MHz was network in May 2011 and start of availability of their used to reach 65% pop coverage by end April 2014. dual LTE network, since Aero2 had already deployed an LTE1800 network as stated above. TeleNor deployed its LTE network initially using 2.6 GHz. Commercial service launch was confirmed on Polkomtel was acquired on June 30, 2011 by October 10, 2012 for customers in 11 cities and Spartan Capital Holdings, which is indirectly towns: Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger, controlled by Zygmunt Solorz-Zak, chairman/founder Lørenskog, Sandnes, Lillestrøm, Asker, Bærum, of Cyfrowy Polsat, and who controls Aero2, owner of Lofthus. Longyearbyen. Fredrikstad, Sarpsborg, Mobyland. Polkomtel operates a GSM 900/1800 and Skien, Porsgrunn, Drammen and Kristiansand were 3G/2100 network. Polkomtel launched commercial covered by end 2012. LTE1800 is now also used in LTE services as an MVNO on November 29, 2011 Tromsø. LTE coverage reached 52% by mid-March under its Plus brand, utilizing the LTE 1800 and 2014. Telenor has brought 800 MHz into service HSPA+900 networks of Aero2 and targeting 111 municipalities to be covered by summer Mobyland/Centernet in 16 major cities, representing 2014, and plans 90% pop coverage by 2015. 22% population coverage.
Tele2 Norge commercially launched LTE for its (Note: GSA does not categorize MVNOs as customers on May 1, 2014 in partnership with “networks” - therefore Polkomtel is not included in Netcom, for selected heavy data customers i.e. those GSA’s list of commercially launched LTE networks). having its Large or Extra Large subscriptions. The company announced in July 2014 it would be sold to Polkomtel’s LTE1800 network was commercially TeliaSonera, subject to regulatory approval. launched in September 2012. The company’s Plus LTE network covers two thirds of the population Regulator NPT held a spectrum auction that (January 2014). Polkomtel and Cyfrowy Polsat commenced on December 2, 2013. Results: have trialled LTE-Advanced, reaching 225 Mbps downlink data speed in tests. Telenor won 2 x 10 MHz of 800 MHz, 2 x 5 MHz of Sferia holds 850 MHz spectrum (band 5) in which 900 MHz and 2 x 10 MHz of 1800 MHz. LTE technology is now being deployed as part of their
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co-operation with NFI Midas for constructing their Meo (formerly TMN) launched commercial LTE existing LTE network, used by Polkomtel and by service on March 12, 2012 in 2.6 GHz. Population MVNO Cyfrowy Polsat. NFI Midas is a private equity coverage exceeded 80% in April 2012 when 800 MHz fund focused on the telecommunication, media and (band 20) spectrum was brought into use. 1800 MHz technologies sectors and forms a capital group was brought into commercial use in September 2012. committed to provision of LTE technology. As a result of legal arguments where it was stated Sferia could Vodafone commercially launched LTE service on not use this band as intended, Sferia was instead March 12, 2012 in 2.6 GHz and 800 MHz. LTE1800 allocated a 5 MHz paired block of 800 MHz digital was brought into service in October 2012. On dividend spectrum (band 20) for LTE deployment. December 16, 2013 the company announced it had achieved 300 Mbps downlink in an LTE-Advanced 6 companies including Sferia made bids for 5 lots of trial using carrier aggregation with 1800 MHz and 2.6 1800 MHz auctioned by regulator UKE, which ended GHz spectrum, targeting commercial launch 1H 2014. mid-February 2013. Winners: Play and T-Mobile. Optimus launched commercial LTE service on March Orange Polska commercially launched LTE1800 15, 2012 using 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and 2.6 GHz in service on September 10, 2103 more dense areas. 800 MHz is used in less dense areas. The company is trialling LTE-Advanced. The Play commercially launched 150 Mbps LTE1800 in company has re-branded to Nos. 13 cities on November 11, 2013. Romania Orange Polska (PTK Centertel) and P4 (Play) are deploying a shared LTE network and this JV is On July 2, 2012 regulator ANCOM published the allowed to bid in the planned 2.6 GHz auction. rules for the auction of 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum for mobile communications T-Mobile (formerly PTC/ERA) commercially launched services in the 2013-2029 timeframe. The auction LTE1800 on June 5, 2014 under the “Jump” brand was held on September 10, 2012. with initial coverage of 45% of the population, planned to rise to over 50% by the end of June 2014. Orange acquired new spectrum in the 800, 900, 1800 and 2.6 GHz bands in the auction. Orange Romania WiMAX™ operator Milmex in southern Poland, plans commercially launched LTE1800 service on to launch 3.5 GHz LTE TDD in 2014 and also seeks December 12, 2012 in Bucharest and holiday resorts. LTE-suitable 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. Coverage now exceeds 90 cities and over 1,000 localities representing 45% of the population. On December 30, 2013 regulator UKE announced Theoretical peak downlink speed was increased from plans to auction 800 MHz (band 20) and 2.6 GHz April 7, 2014 to 150 Mbps. Testing of 300 Mbps Cat 6 (band 7) spectrum. Bids were required by February was undertaken in April 2014 in selected locations. 13, 2014. But the auction was cancelled because a technical problem meant that clarifications about the Vodafone acquired additional 800, 900, 1800 and 2.6 auction rules were unavailable for a time. The current GHz spectrum for EUR 228.52 million. On October expectation is for the auction to be held in 2015. 31, 2012 Vodafone announced pilot LTE1800 networks had been deployed. Commercial LTE1800 Portugal service was launched in 10 cities (Arad, Bacau, Brasov, Bucharest, Cluj, Constanta, Craiova, Iasi, Regulator ANACOM announced the results of its Galati and Timisoara) on November 20, 2012. auction on December 12, 2011 after 9 bidding Theoretical peak downlink speed has since been rounds. 800 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum increased to 150 Mbps. The LTE network covered 19 was sold to the 3 incumbents. Vodafone also cities representing 90% of population by June 2014. acquired 2 x 5 MHz of new 900 MHz spectrum, but Orange and Vodafone formed a network joint another block was not sold. Spectrum in 450 MHz venture company (Ovidiu) to support expansion and and 2.1 GHz was not sold. rural coverage.
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Vodafone announced it has raised theoretical of Moscow and 40 population centers in the downlink peak speed of 150 Mbps (Cat 4), and surrounding Moscow region. MTS has tested VoLTE testing of 300 Mbps Cat 6 ahead of launch in 2015. in St Petersburg and in May 2014 announced completion of the first VoLTE call using Cloud Cosmote acquired one block in 800 MHz, 2 blocks in infrastructure. 900 MHz, 5 blocks in 1800 MHz and 2 blocks in 2.6 GHz. Comsote commercially launched LTE1800 data Tele2 Russia requested permission to deploy service on April 29, 2013 in Bucharest, Otopeni, LTE1800. In October 2011 Tele2 indicated it would Ploiesti, Cluj, Iasi, Sinaia, Busteni, and Predeal. The conduct an independent trial of LTE technology in the theoretical peak downlink speed has been increased 1800 MHz band, and applied to the State to 150 Mbps. Commission for Radio Frequencies (SCRF) for permission to run tests in Pskov and Omsk, setting RCS & RDS plans to deploy LTE in newly acquired aside 5 MHz of spectrum in 1800 MHz for the tests. 900 MHz spectrum, though 3G is the current priority. Tele2 has already provided the results of earlier research commissioned by themselves as well as 2K Telecom won 2 blocks of 15 MHz of 2.6 GHz from reports by leading global manufacturers of TDD spectrum (band 38) and anticipates service telecommunication equipment showing that GSM and launch in early 2014. LTE networks can operate simultaneously in the 1800 MHz frequency band. The efficiency of this solution In October 2012 ANCOM published a draft Decision was clearly demonstrated by research carried out and proposing to allow use of 900 and 1800 MHz for 4G published in a report by the Global mobile Suppliers (including LTE). 4G systems may also be deployed Association (GSA) – this free report “Embracing the using 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz from 2014. Operators 1800MHz opportunity: Driving mobile forward with may choose whether to implement new technologies LTE in the 1800MHz band” may be downloaded by in these frequencies, deployment timescale, and date registered GSA website site users at of commercial service launch. The draft decision is http://www.gsacom.com/lte1800 subject to consultation before becoming effective. Tele2 Russia announced successful completion of tests by end March 2012 in trial zones in Omsk and In January 2014 ANCOM opened a consultation Pskov. Tests were performed according to a method regarding one 5 MHz block of 800 MHz (band 20) and developed by the State Radio Institute and with the eight 5 MHz blocks of 2.6 GHz (band 7) spectrum left assistance of its experts, and intended to unsold in the September 2012 auction. demonstrate that LTE and GSM technologies can share the same frequencies without degrading the Russia quality of end user service. Tele2 showed that the test results confirmed that there was no service MTS, Vimpelcom, Tele2, MegaFon and quality degradation in the GSM network, while the Rostelecom are committed to deploying LTE. The data transmission rate in the LTE network reached 75 Regulator in principle admits that technology megabits per second. A detailed report on the LTE neutrality can be applied to 900/1800MHz spectrum. technology testing in the 1800 MHz band was However, to avoid GSM service quality deterioration if prepared by NIIR and submitted to the State LTE is launched alongside GSM frequencies this Commission for Radio Frequencies. topic was examined further in a study in 2012. www.en.tele2.ru/news.html?year=2012&month=3 &news_id=6170 On February 2, 2012 MTS announced the company Tele2’s then-owners exited from Russia with the had been awarded the first license to provide LTE announcement on April 4, 2013 that the business had services in Moscow and the Moscow region. The been sold to Russian bank VTB Group following license granted is for LTE TDD deployment in the receipt of FAS approval. VTB purchased 100% of the 2595 – 2620 MHz range (in band 38) and is valid until business for subsequent resale. December 29, 2016. MTS announced commercial launch of its LTE TDD service (replacing its WiMAX™ On June 20, 2013 Tele2 announced launch of LTE service) on September 1, 2012 initially covering most testing in 1800 MHz in its network in Kaluga Region.
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The tests comply with the methodology drafted by Megafon acquired WiMAX™ operator Synterra in NIIR and aim to confirm that the use of LTE and GSM 2010, and commercially launched LTE TDD using 2.6 technologies in the same frequency range is efficient GHz (band 38) spectrum in Moscow on September 1, and does not entail deterioration of quality. Tele2 and 2012. Megafon also had an agreement with Yota and NIIR completed the tests by 24 June 2013. NIIR since 1H 2012 had been operating as an MVNO over produced the detailed report on LTE tests in 1800 Yota’s LTE network in Moscow and other cities. MHz for the State Commission for Radio Frequencies (GKRCh). The GKRCh confirmed on December 11, In September 2011 SCRF issued an authorization for 2013 that technology neutrality is allowed, allowing Yota (Skartel) to deploy an LTE FDD network in 2.6 LTE to be deployed in 1800 MHz (LTE1800). GHz spectrum in 180 cities. Yota is shifting from WiMAX™ to LTE and launched commercial LTE FDD In December 2013 the board of Rostelecom service in Novosibirsk, Siberia on January 15, 2012 approved the plan to contribute its mobile assets into following a friendly-launch test phase which began on a joint venture with Tele2 Russia. The new company December 20, 2011. Yota launched commercial LTE will be known as LLC T2 RTK Holding (with Tele2 service in Moscow on May 10, 2012, Krasnodar (also brand). A Tele2 Russia press release on March 28, on May 10), and Sochi (May 11) and plans to deploy 2014 stated that “Tele2 and Rostelecom have closed 1,550 LTE-enabled base stations instead of current the first stage of the deal on integrating Rostelecom’s WiMAX™ equipment. Service has since been mobile assets into the Tele2 structure. On March 28, launched in several other locations. In October 2012 Tele2 got Rostelecom’s seven mobile subsidiaries Yota announced that a test LTE-Advanced network under its operational and financial control: SkyLink, had been deployed in Moscow, featuring Carrier Nizhniy Novgorod Mobile Networks, Baykalvestkom, Aggregation (Release 10 feature). Yota is also BIT, Volgograd GSM, Enisey Telecom and AKOS. implementing VoLTE with SRVCC. See information Tele2 is actively working on integrating all below about the company’s acquisition by Megafon. Rostelecom mobile business into its structure. Tele2 business processes will be introduced at Rostelecom In September 2011, VimpelCom announced an LTE assets, their organizational model will be correlated network-sharing deal with rival MTS. with the one accepted in Tele2. Rebranding of Military operator OJSC Osnova Telecom has a subsidiary companies will be held as a part of their license for 2.3 GHz LTE TDD. On November 28, integration into the Tele2 structure. Setting up the 2013 the company announced technical readiness to new company will be legally completed following the launch LTE in 18 cities but commercial launch has second stage of the deal (scheduled to be closed been delayed due to legal challenges. over the year) and after 100% of CJSC RT Mobile shares have been transferred into the joint venture. Vainakh Telecom deployed a commercial LTE TDD After the integration of all mobile assets VTB Group network in 2.3 GHz (band 40) in Chechnya. structures and its partners will owe at least 55% of Commercial service launch in Grozny was delayed the new operator whereas the share of Rostelecom from early 2013 because of a dispute about local will amount to 45%. The new company will provide equipment manufacturer certification. Commercial services in over 60 Russian regions with a subscriber service was officially launched on September 3, 2013. base of over 38 million people.” GSM1800 regional operator MOTIV (Sverdlovsk MegaFon and Rostelecom, general partners of the Region) has obtained a licence to deploy an LTE Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games, successfully network across the regions of Kurgan, Yugra, Yamal- tested LTE networks close to the key Sochi site of Nenets, and Yekaterinburg. Roza Khutor. The Defence Ministry has reportedly given Rostelecom approval to deploy LTE TDD in SMARTS Group has deployed a pilot LTE trial 2.3 GHz spectrum. MegaFon showcased LTE at the network in Ufa comprising at least 7 base stations IX International Investment Forum (Sochi) in Sept and re-uses SMARTS’ existing 1800 MHz spectrum. 2010. Rostelecom activated LTE sites in Krasnodar The trial involved cooperation of the NIIR and the and in Sochi for the Winter Olympics. findings were presented to SCRF. SMARTS has committed to deploy a commercial LTE1800 system.
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Regional operator JSC Tattelecom (Republic of Maxiten, the holding company controlling Tatarstan) commercially launched LTE on June 27, Skartel/Yota. As a result MegaFon obtained 40 MHz 2014using 1800 MHz acquired from the purchase of of 2.6 GHz spectrum and 648,000 LTE subscribers. SMARTS-Kazan. Tattelecom is the first operator to The Yota LTE network covered 27% of the commercially launch an LTE1800 network in Russia, population. On April 24, 2014 MegaFon announced and at launch operated 228 LTE base stations. completion of the key processes of the integration of Skartel (Yota), 100% of the shares of which were 3.5 GHz WiMAX™ operator Enforta, providing purchased by Megafon. services to business users in 172 cities, tested LTE TDD in Kemerovo. A commercial network will not be On February 25, 2014 MegaFon announced the built as the company has agreed to give up these commercial launch of the world’s first 300 Mbps LTE frequencies for use by others for LTE deployments. Advanced network, supporting Cat 6 user devices. MegaFon uses a combination of its own 2.6 GHz Smoltelecom is planning to introduce LTE TDD and spectrum and 2.6 GHz allocated to Skartel. The is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative. service currently works within the Garden Ring in On May 3, 2012 Russian regulator Roskomnadzor Moscow. Throughout 2014, network coverage will be published the conditions for application for and expanded to encompass the entire area within the subsequent awarding of LTE licences in 791-862 Moscow Automobile Ring Road (MKAD) and in MHz spectrum, comprising four lots, each consisting future, the company plans to expand coverage to of two 7.5 MHz blocks in the range of 791-862 MHz. include Russia’s largest cities. A new brand name, Recipients of each of the lots would also be awarded 4G+, has been developed to promote mobile Internet two 7.5 MHz blocks in the 720-791 MHz range and from MegaFon. To access the 300 Mbps LTE- two 10 MHz blocks in the 2500 – 2690 MHz range. All Advanced service, users can purchase the MegaFon licences are nationwide. Eight companies submitted Space router (R300–1), a category 6 CPE device bids to participate in the auction, MegaFon, supplied by Huawei. Company press release: http://english.corp.megafon.ru/news/20140225-1833.html Vimpelcom, MTS, Rostelecom, Summa Telecom, TTK, Tele2-Voronezh, and Tele2-Omsk. LTE MTS commercially launched LTE FDD service at the licences were granted to MTS, Vimpelcom, end of May 2013 in Moscow using its own network Megafon, and Rostelecom with the conditions that and 2 x 10 MHz of 2.6 GHz (band 7) spectrum. It has the networks must be launched by mid 2013, annual not been possible to bring the 800 MHz spectrum into investment targets must be met (RUB 15 billion), and use so far due to negotiations with the military. MTS nationwide coverage by 2019. Each operator was now operates LTE networks in 28 regions and plans granted spectrum within band 20 (720-750 MHz and to serve 74 regions by end 2014. 761–791 MHz) plus 2,500–2,690 MHz spectrum. Rostelecom confirmed commercial launch of LTE TTK owns 3.5 GHz spectrum and is deploying FDD service in Sochi on June 3, 2013 using 2.6 GHz WiMAX™. TTK launched a LTE test network in the and 800 MHz spectrum. The company plans to build Voronezh region in May 2013. TTK is reported to be LTE networks in 8 Regions by the end of this year. planning to buy Antares Telecom. Antares has deployed 5 LTE base stations for a trial network using Rostelecom plans to deploy LTE using 450 MHz 1900 – 1920 MHz (Band 33) spectrum in Moscow. spectrum (currently used for CDMA) having Megafon commercially launched LTE FDD service on completed trials in this band in the Kostroma region in May 14, 2013 in Moscow using its own network and 2 Decemeber 2013. x 10 MHz of 2.6 GHz (band 7) spectrum. Currently Megafon has commercial LTE service in 53 regions Vimpelcom commercially launched LTE FDD in of Russia. It has not been possible to bring 800 MHz Moscow May 27, 2013 using 2.6 GHz spectrum and into use so far due to negotiations with the military. plans to cover 80% of the city area by end 2013. VoLTE was successfully tested in Q1 2014. LTE Megafon obtained regulatory approval for its service was extended to the Moscow region in July proposed takeover of Skartel (Yota) and formally 2014, again using 2.6 GHz spectrum. announced on October 1, 2013 its acquisition of
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New frequency auctions for 2.6 GHz LTE TDD band Orange Slovensko commercially launched Category 38 spectrum are foreseen during 2014, for which a 4 LTE on July 7, 2014 in the cities of Bratislava, new decree was signed on May 24, 2014. Banska Bystrica and Kosice, using bands 7 and 20.
On July 22, 2014 according to reports, SCRF Swan Telecom committed to deploy an LTE1800 extended technology neutrality principle to allow use network by the regulatory deadline of July 8, 2014 of 900 MHz (formerly GSM-only band) and 450 MHz and set up a non-public trial in Trnava. Service is for LTE deployments. expected to launch in Autumn 2014.
Serbia Republic A new regulator replacing TU SR, the Office for Electronic Communications and Postal Services, was The transition for boroadcasters from analogue to established on January 1, 2014. digital transmission is expected to be completed by end 2014, enabling subsequent auction of vacated Slovenia spectrum for mobile broadband/LTE deployments. Si.mobil has FDD spectrum in 800 MHz, 900 MHz, Slovak Republic 1800 MHz, 2.1 GHz and 2.6 GHz and TDD spectrum in 2.6 GHz (band 38). Si.mobil announced Regulator TU SR granted licences to O2 Slovakia, commercial launch of LTE service on July 12, 2012 in Orange and T-Mobile Slovensko for each to trial Ljubljana, Brnik, and Bled using 1800 MHz spectrum LTE FDD networks in 2.6 GHz in Banská Bystrica. (LTE1800). 800 MHz band 20 spectrum was brought into use in June 2014. The company is targeting 75% O2 Slovakia commercially launched LTE services on coverage by end 2014, and at least 95% by mi-2017. August 2, 2012 using LTE1800. Telekom Slovenije commercially launched LTE Slovak Telecom commercially launched LTE1800 in service on March 20, 2013 using refarmed 1800 MHz Trnava, Nitra, Zilina, Banska Bystrica and Presov on spectrum (LTE1800). By end June 2014 the LTE November 15, 2013, with CSFB. Evolution to VoLTE network covered 110 cities and towns, representing is planned in future. Coverage reached 31% of the over 60% of the population, the network supporting a population by early June 2014. 2.6 GHz spectrum theoretical peak downlink speed of 150 Mbps. VoLTE was brought into use in April 2014 to support Cat 4 is in deployment. The company announced on June service in Bratislava. 800 MHz spectrum is also to be 1, 2014 that 800 MHz spectrum acquired in April introduced. 2014 (see below) had been brought into service for LTE. The LTE network runs alongside UMTS, which TU SR conducted an auction of 800 MHz, 1800 MHz has continuously been upgraded and which has and 2.6 GHz spectrum for LTE in late 2013. O2 supported 42 Mbps DC-HSPA+ since 2011. Slovakia subsequently announced that the company had won channels in the 800 MHz and 1800 MHz Regulator AKOS authorized test spectrum for LTE in bands. O2, owned by investment group PPF, plans to the 700 MHz band (746-756MHz / 777-787 MHz) to a use 800 MHz and 1800 MHz in its LTE network. company called Neuron for tests between October 9, Other winners were Orange and Telefonica O2 plus 2012 and January 9, 2013 in Ljubljana. new market entrant and domestic 3.5 GHz WiMAX™ operator Swan Telecom. Results: AKOS auctioned off frequencies in the 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2.6 GHz bands for 15 years, - Orange Slovensko: 2 x 10 MHz 800 MHz, 2 x 4.8 and unassigned 2100 MHz frequencies until MHz 1800 MHz, 2 x 20 MHz 2.6 GHz September 2021. All of the offered bands, with the - Slovak Telecom: 2 x 10 MHz 800 MHz, 2 x 40 MHz exception of two blocks (20 MHz) in the 1800 MHz 2.6 GHz, 50 MHz 2.6 GHz TDD band 38 band and one block (10 MHz) in the 2100 MHz FDD - O2 Slovakia: 2 x 10 MHz 800 MHz, 2 x 0.6 MHz band, were sold. The total proceeds of the auction 1800 MHz were EUR 148,740,934.00. The auction started on - Swan Telecom: 2 x 15 MHz 1800 MHz April 3, 2014. Results were announced after 55
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bidding rounds on April 29, 2014. Three out of four coverage, and in all towns and cities with over 70,000 Slovenia's mobile operators took part in the auction: population, by Q1 2014. Simobil, Telekom Slovenije and Tu-mobil. All licences included coverage obligations. Telefónica offered LTE service from September 13, 2013 as an MVNO on the Yoigo LTE1800 MHz Si.mobil acquired FDD spectrum in 800 MHz, 900 network and commercially launched service on its MHz, 1800 MHz, 2.1 GHz and 2.6 GHz and TDD own LTE1800 network in 28 cities from October 2013. spectrum in 2.6 GHz (band 38). 50% pop coverage is planned by end 2013. The company is trialling VoLTE. Telekom Slovenije won FDD spectrum in 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, and 2.6 GHz ONO, JazzTel, Euskaltel, R, Telecable and TelecomCLM won regional 2.6 GHz licences. Tu!mobil acquired FDD spectrum in 800 MHz, 900 MHz, and 1800 MHz. Regional start-up COTA commercially launched LTE TDD fixed access service in band 38 spectrum (2.6 Spain GHz) in Región de Murcia on March 1, 2013, branding their service as Murcia4G. The company An auction began on June 29, 2011 for 58 blocks of informed GSA that coverage reached 35% of the 800, 900 MHz and 2.6 GHz frequencies, with licences population in the region of Murcia (end June 2013). valid to 2030. The auction ended on July 29, 2011 WiMAX™ operator Neo-Sky commercially launched raising "1.65bn for 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz licences. LTE TDD service in 3.5 GHz (band 42) in June 2013. Spectrum was won by Vodafone, Telefónica and FT-Orange. 800 MHz channels can be used from Cable operator R (R Cable y Telecomunicaciones 2014 after digital TV switchover. 2.6 GHz can be Galicia) is conducting LTE technology trials in 2.6 used now. Vodafone plans to use both bands for GHz in FDD and TDD modes, in 3 areas of Galicia. LTE, and re-farm 900 MHz for additional rural HSPA or LTE-based coverage. Sweden
Vodafone commercially launched LTE Cat 4 service TeliaSonera launched the world’s first LTE networks on May 29, 2013 in Barcelona, Bilbao, Madrid, in Stockholm and Norway (Oslo) in December 2009. Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, Seville and Valencia. An 800/1800/2600 MHz multimode modem was 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and 2.6 GHz spectrum is used. introduced July 2011. By end 2012 almost 700 cities 800 MHz will be introduced when available for use. in Sweden are served. Coverage was set to double The company announced that from April 1, 2014 LTE by end 2013. On October 1, 2012 TeliaSonera was coverage will be available in all provincial capitals. the first LTE operator in Europe to offer an LTE Cat4 Vodafone has begun carrier aggregation/LTE- modem. TeliaSonera is deploying VoLTE. Advanced trials using band 3 and band 7 spectrum and targeting commercial launch in 2014. Tele2 Sweden and TeleNor Sweden deployed an LTE network through a jointly-owned company Orange commercially launched LTE on July 8, 2013 (Net4Mobility), which includes spectrum sharing in in Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, Murcia, Seville and 900 MHz and 2.6 GHz. Using this network, Tele2 Valencia using 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and 2.6 GHz. Sweden and TeleNor Sweden commercially 800 MHz will be added when it is available for use. launched LTE services to their respective customers The company trialled LTE-Advanced in Valencia for on November 15, 2010, initially in Stockholm, which 20 MHz of 2.6 GHz and 10 MHz of 1800 MHz Gothenburg, Malmo and Karlskrona. The network spectrum was combined by carrier aggregation. now also uses 800 MHz and covers over 99% Orange announced over 1 million LTE subscriptions population. 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz deliver capacity by Q1 2014, adding almost 500,000 in the quarter. and speed. In May 2012 Tele2 Sweden and Telenor Sweden announced joint trials of LTE-Advanced. Yoigo commercially launched LTE service (LTE1800) VoLTE was tested in the network in December 2012 on July 18, 2013 in Madrid, reaching 48% population and planned for commercial launch by Tele2 in 2014.
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Hutchison 3 is deploying an LTE FDD network and Lausanne railway stations, with Berne and Biel also using 50 MHz of TDD spectrum bought from following in early July 2014. Intel. Network technical readiness was announced by its infrastructure vendor on December 15, 2011. Sunrise Communications commercially launched Commercial LTE service was launched April 23, 2012 LTE on June 19, 2013 in Zurich, Bern, Lucerne, according to information provided by the operator to Geneva, Lausanne, Basel-Stadt, and several other GSA. LTE is currently offered in Stockholm, locations, using 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and 2.6 GHz. Gothenburg, Malmo and Lund. The LTE network uses The company advised GSA that 800 MHz (band 20) TDD in 2.6 GHz and FDD in 2.6 GHz and 800 MHz. will also be brought into commercial use soon. Customers may also use 3G/HSPA up to 42 Mbps Sunrise is targeting 97% population coverage (as (peak DL) in 2.1 GHz and 900 MHz bands. 3G/HSPA) by 2015. LTE-Advanced carrier An auction for 800 MHz opened on February 28, aggregation has been trialled, and 300 Mbps (Cat 6) 2011 and ended after 5 days and 31 rounds. will be launched in Autumn 2014.
An auction for 2 x 35 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum, for Tajikistan use from January 2013, began on October 11, 2011. The new licences are valid for 25 years from 2013. Babilon-Mobile commercially launched LTE service TeliaSonera acquired more nationwide frequencies in Dushanbe on October 6, 2012 using 1800 MHz in the 1800 MHz band. The new frequencies are (LTE1800) and 2100 MHz spectrum and initially the being used in their LTE network and for strengthening Huawei E398 USB dongle was offered. the mobile telephony network. In addition to its existing 10 MHz, TeliaSonera acquired 2 x 25 MHz of Tcell commercially launched its 4G/LTE network 1800 MHz spectrum. Net4Mobility also acquired using a 10 MHz carrier in 800 MHz (band 20) more 1800 MHz spectrum for LTE1800. It means spectrum on April 15, 2014. High speed and quality Net4Mobility and TeliaSonera each has 2 x 35 MHz in coverage was offered from launch in Dushanbe, 1800 MHz. A consultation has started to determine Khujand, Kayrakkum, Chkalov and Gafurov inside interest/future use of 2.3 GHz (Band 40). and outside buildings.
Switzerland Turkey
Orange commercially launched LTE1800 on May 26, Turkcell has trialled LTE. In stationary tests downlink 2013. On August 29, 2013 Orange announced that speeds up to 170 Mbps were achieved. On April 6, “the data consumption on 4G is strongly increasing 2012 Turkcell announced results of its mobile LTE and already, within one month after launch, the 4G trial in an area between Kartal and Maltepe (Istanbul). traffic is higher than the entire 2G data traffic.” Some Turkcell demonstrated LTE-Advanced in July 2013, 2.6 GHz sites were activated in November/2013 and achieved downlink speed of around 900 Mbps. 2013. The LTE network covered over 81% of population by end March 2014. Download speeds are Avea announced in September 15, 2011 completion theoretically up to 150 Mbps (Cat 4). Some 800 MHz of its successful LTE trial. On December 25, 2013 sites entered into service in May 2014. Avea held a press conference to report progress on their LTE trials including VoLTE. Swisscom commercially launched LTE on November 29, 2012 in 26 towns and cities and planned 70% Vodafone has trialled LTE and has GSM/HSPA population coverage by end 2013. The network uses infrastructure which is LTE-capable. 800, 1800 (LTE1800), and 2600 MHz bands. Approx. 400,000 customers use the LTE service. An upgrade There is no firm date for an LTE spectrum auction. for 150 Mbps Cat 4 service has been introduced with compatible devices offered for sale from June 2013. Turkmenistan VoLTE is in deployment. Swissom launched LTE-300 Mbps Advanced on June 16, 2014 in Berne and TMCELL commercially launched 2.6 GHz LTE in Ashgabat and Turkmenbashi on September 18, 2013.
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Ukraine GHz spectrum. Local companies from the Tech City area have been selected to experience the service MTS-Ukraine has trialled LTE. Astelit has called for before it becomes commercially available during for technology neutrality for 900 MHz and 1800 MHZ Summer 2014 initially in parts of London. In spectrum. ITC (CDMA Ukraine) is considering December 2013 EE announced its first LTE roaming deploying LTE in 850 MHz spectrum. agreement, with AT&T for the US. Additional roaming destinations of France and Spain were announced in Plans to introduce technology neutrality licensing March 2014. EE plans to deploy VoLTE in 2014. have been delayed. The 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz auction of 250 MHz of United Kingdom LTE spectrum by Ofcom was repeatedly delayed. Bidding by 7 companies opened on January 23, UK Broadband on February 29, 2012 announced 2013. On February 20, 2013 Ofcom announced the switch-on of its first LTE TDD system in London. This winning bidders who collectively paid £2.34 billion: was the world’s first LTE TDD 3.5 GHz deployment • EE (800 MHz, 2.6 GHz FDD) and first commercial LTE deployment in the UK, and • Hutchison 3G UK Limited (800 MHz) uses allocations within Bands 42 and 43 (3.5/3.6 • Niche Spectrum Ventures (BT) (2.6 GHz FDD GHz). UK Broadband operates a wholesale model & TDD) and launched commercial service on June 28, 2012. • Telefónica UK Limited (800 MHz) LTE service is now available for consumers and • Vodafone (800 MHz, 2.6 GHz FDD & TDD) businesses in Reading, Scunthorpe, Southwark HKT (UK) and MLL Telecom did not win spectrum. (London), and Swindon. Indoor and outdoor CPEs, portable hotspots and a femtocell are available. Vodafone and O2 both commercially launched O2 tested LTE in 2.6 GHz spectrum and trialled 4G/LTE services on August 29, 2013 using 800 MHz LTE800 in Carlisle in 2010. In November 2011 the (band 20), initially in London, Bradford and Leeds. By company started a large-scale LTE trial in central March 2014 more cities and towns added by O2 London, lasting until summer 2012, using 20 MHz of extended coverage to 33% of the population indoors test spectrum in the 2.6 GHz band. The trial ran and 41% outdoors. The company gained over 1 across 25 LTE cell sites and covered 40 sq. km. million LTE subscriptions by Q1 2014. The company said those customers used more data in the 4G Manx Telecom (Isle of Man) is deploying a network’s first six months than the entire O2 network commercial LTE network using 800 MHz and 1800 carried between the years 2000 and 2008. O2’s LTE MHz spectrum and announced on its website that network covered 21 million people by mid-2014. commercial launch will be on July 29, 2014. Vodafone launched its service in London. 900,000 subscriptions were achieved in the UK by end June EE - owner of the Orange and T-Mobile UK brands, 2014. Vodafone is targeting LTE indoor coverage for launched commercial LTE1800 service in 11 cities 98% of the population by 2015. (Bristol, Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Sheffield and 3 UK bought 2 x 15 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum from Southampton) on October 30, 2012 and is targeting EE and commercially launched LTE1800. From 98% population coverage by end 2014. EE December 2, 2013, 3 UK started upgrading announced 4.2 million LTE subscriptions had been customers with an LTE-compatible device, enabling signed up to end June 2014. EE LTE now covers 229 access to LTE when in coverage area. 3 UK aims to cities and large towns. EE announced doubling of the cover 50 cities and over 200 towns with LTE by end spectrum allocated for its LTE service this year from 2014 and 98% of the population by end 2015. 10 to 20 MHz. On November 5, 2013 EE switched on its LTE-Advanced network in part of London (Tech Ofcom has authorized all five mobile operators to City) delivering a theoretical peak downlink speed of trade the rights to the radio spectrum they hold, 300 Mbps. The network uses carrier aggregation to covering 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz. combine 20 MHz of 1800 MHz and 20 MHz of 2.6 Ofcom announced on July 9, 2013 that mobile operators are now allowed to refarm 2G (900, 1800
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MHz) and 3G (2.1 GHz) spectrum for 4G (e.g. LTE) for enabling provision of LTE services in the Channel services. A 3dB increase in maximum transmit power Islands (Guernsey and Jersey). Comments were due using 900 MHz spectrum has also been approved. by February 4, 2014. CICRA confirmed LTE-suitable Requests from EE, 3 UK, O2 and Vodafone for a spectrum had been awarded to applicants JT, Sure similar 3dB power increase for 3G and 4G services and Airtel in respect of Guernsey and Jersey. using 1800 MHz spectrum is under consideration and http://www.cicra.gg/_files/media%20release%204G%20spectrum%20230 a consultation has been launched by Ofcom. 714.pdf SURE Telecom is also deploying an LTE network on Ofcom is conducting a consultation on use of 700 the Isle of Man. MHz for mobile broadband, following the Resolution passed at WRC 2012 that could lead to ITU Region 1 Uzbekistan i.e. Europe, Africa, Middle East adopting 700 MHz for mobile broadband from 2015. A public consultation MTS announced on July 28, 2010 commercial launch was launched on May 28, 2014 setting out proposals of LTE in Tashkent via its subsidiary Uzdunrobita. to make spectrum in the 700 MHz band available for However the network was shut down in September mobile broadband from 2022 or possibly up to two 2012 and the company is declared as bankrupt. years earlier. It includes an assessment of costs and Assets were transferred to Uzbektelecom. benefits of such a change and invites comments by August 29, 2014. Ofcom recognises that European Ucell (TeliaSonera) announced commercial LTE Member States including France, Sweden and network launch in Tashkent on August 9, 2010. Finland have already decided to use 700 MHz for mobile services and that others are considering plans Beeline Uzbekistan announced its LTE network in to do so. Ofcom also acknowledges the benefits of Tashkent entered into a test phase in February 2012. compatibility with the APT700 band plan. Middle East and Africa The Ministry of Defence is preparing to release 190 MHz of spectrum to Ofcom to allocate available for commercial use. It includes 40 MHz in the 2.3 GHz ITU announced on September 5, 2013 that 47 Sub- band and 150 MHz above 3.4 GHz for TDD Saharan African countries had agreed on frequency deployments. Both segments will be suitable for LTE coordination for digital switchover in 2015. This deployments. Ofcom launched a consultation on makes Africa the first region to be in a position in October 16, 2013 on the proposed sale 2015 to allocate ‘digital dividend’ spectrum to mobile arrangements. Comments were required by services in the band 694 – 862 MHz and was November 27, 2013. Ofcom envisages the allocation, achieved by re-planning spectrum requirements of which could be by auction, would be completed in the television broadcasting in the 470-694 MHz band. http://www.itu.int/net/pressoffice/press_releases/2013/32.aspx#.U 2015-2016 financial year. l6DepSuvR0
Ofcom announced a Notice of Proposal to permit Algeria LTE1800 mobile devices on board aircraft on a licence exempt basis. Comments were required by WiMAX™ operator Algérie Télécom commercially March 12, 2014. Use of mobile devices on aircraft launched fixed LTE1800 service for business has been permitted since 2008 but limited to customers on May 1, 2014, ahead of an expected GSM1800 (2G) only. This proposal extends licence consumer proposition. VoLTE is in deployment. exemption arrangements to cover use of 3G and 4G terminals. EU Member States were required to adopt Angola this EU decision into national law by May 12, 2014. Movicel launched commercial LTE1800 service in CICRA (the Channel Islands Competition and Cabinda on April 14, 2012. Luanda is now covered. Regulatory Authorities) consulted in July 2013 on the appropriate method of allocating spectrum, Unitel launched commercial LTE1800 service on specifically 800 MHz (band 20) and 2.6 GHz (band 7), December 16, 2012 in Luanda.
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Unitel announced the successful demonstration of July 17, 2014 in the hotel Soluxe de N'Djamena. Tigo LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation by combining 900 is targeting commercial launch Q3 or Q4 2014. MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum on its live network on December 18, 2013. Côte d'Ivoire
WiMAX™ operator Multitel (3.5 GHz) is migrating to WiMAX™ operator YooMee commercially launched LTE TDD and has selected its system supplier. its 4G LTE TDD network using band 40 in Abidjan on April 4, 2014. Bahrain WiMAX™ operator VipNet is deploying an LTE TDD Zain commercially launched LTE1800 on April 18, network, targeting commercial launch in 2H 2014. 2013. Smartphone and tablet access was enabled on April 30, 2014. Orange launched a trial LTE network in June 2014 and is extending rollout in anticipation of regulatory VIVA launched a small-scale commercial LTE1800 approval to offer nationwide commercial service. network on January 1, 2012. A wider commercial service was launched in January 2014. Democratic Republic of Congo
Batelco commercially launched LTE1800 on Smile is deploying a commercial LTE network February 27, 2013. Peak downlink speed was targeting launch in 2H 2014. increased to 150 Mbps on September 26, 2013. Equatorial Guinea WiMAX™ operator Menatelecom commercially launched 3.5 GHz LTE TDD nationwide on November WiMAX™ operator Guineanet plans migration to LTE 19, 2013. Egypt Regulator TRA cancelled an auction of additional spectrum in 900, 1800, 2100 MHz and 2.6 GHz Vodafone, Mobinil, Etisalat Misr each trialled LTE. bands. In September 2013 permits for LTE networks using 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2.1 GHz spectrum Ethiopia were granted to Batelco, Viva and Zain. Ethio-Telecom awarded infrastructure contracts to Botswana upgrade 3G capacity and launch LTE in Addis Ababa.
Mascom Wireless announced on June 12, 2012 the Gabon setting up of an LTE pilot trial network. Gabon Telecom is planning to deploy LTE and Burkina Faso received a licence in March 2014.
Airtel Burkin Faso has applied to regulator ARCEP Airtel Gabon received a 4G licence in March 2014. for a licence to offer a 4G network. Ghana Cameroon Surfline Communications has 2 x 15 MHz of 2.6 WiMAX™ operator YooMee is deploying an LTE TDD GHz spectrum and is deploying a commercial LTE network in band 41. network for launch in 2014. A test phase was launched in June 2014 in the Greater Accra region. Chad Blu Telecoms (formerly G-Kwiknet Limited) has 30 Tigo Chad is deploying an LTE network and MHz unpaired in 2.6 GHz spectrum (band 38) and is arranged a demonstration for high-level guests on deploying an LTE TDD network for launch in 2014.
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Goldkey Telecom has 2 x 15 MHz of 2.6 GHz and is Israel targeting launch in 2014. Partner (Orange) commercially launched LTE1800 The National Information Technology Agency (NITA) service on July 15, 2014 following regulatory approval is upgrading its WiMAX™ network to LTE TDD. refarm 1800 MHz spectrum, and uses 2 x 5 MHz of 1800 MHz. Partner announced in November 2013 a MTN and Vodafone each has 33 MHz paired proposed 4G network sharing agreement with HOT spectrum across 900/1800/2100 MHz bands. Airtel Mobile subject to regulatory approval. and Globacom each has 30 MHz paired spectrum across 900/1800/2100 MHz bands. Tigo has 28 MHz Cellcom is deploying an LTE-Advanced network for paired across these bands. commercial launch by November 2014. In December 2013 Cellcom, Golan Telecom and Pelephone Glo Mobile announced target start of commercial announced a 15-year agreement to deploy & operate operations on January 19, 2012. Parent Globacom a shared LTE network, subject to regulatory approval, planned to invest c. $600 million to deploy a ‘unique, and to co-operate to obtain suitable spectrum. seamless and world class LTE network’. It is unclear to GSA if commercial service launch is yet achieved. Bezeq is deploying a commercial LTE network pending regulatory approval. Vodafone commercially launched LTE on January 2, 2014 for users with existing compatible phones. Regulator MoC has published a tender for the proposed auction of 1800 MHz spectrum for LTE Expresso Telecoms has 2 x 10 MHz of 850 MHz networks. Applications for licenses are required by spectrum and operates a CDMA network. end September 28, 2014.
Analog to digital TV switchover target is by end 2014. Jordan
Iran Regulator TRC launched an auction of 800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2.3 GHz and 2.6 GHz with bids required The Communications Regulatory Authority (CRA) by September 1, 2013. Only two bids were made, by plans to develop a national broadband plan with potential new market entrants and both were rejected. allocation of LTE licences by March 2015. After a fresh call for interest in April 2014, Zain paid c. $270 million for 3G & 4G spectrum. Zain is WiMAX™ operator Mobinnet Telecom Co. (MTC) is deploying an LTE-Advanced network targeting migrating to LTE TDD and launched a pilot trial. commercial launch by end 2014. Umniah Telecommunications completed LTE trials. Iraq Kenya MaxyTel is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative and committed to deploying an LTE TDD network. Safaricom has trialled LTE in existing 3G spectrum. The government favors a single LTE wholesale Regional Telecom (in Kurdistan) commercially network built in 2015 with Private Public Partnership launched LTE service, using 2.6 GHz spectrum (band ownership. No operator has yet received a licence. 7) on June 10, 2013 under the Fastlink brand. Kuwait Newroz Telecom (Kurdistan) is deploying LTE, targeting Internet penetration of 35% by end 2014. Viva commercially launched LTE1800 services on December 27, 2011. On March 14, 2013 coverage WiMAX™ operator Tishknet is deploying an LTE was extended to all customers, new and existing, TDD network in the northeastern Kurdistan region without additional fees. In September 2013 Viva said targeting commercial launch in 2014. it is upgrading to LTE-Advanced. VoLTE is in trial.
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Zain commercially launched nationwide LTE1800 on Namibia November 21, 2012. Zain is deploying LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation, including 100 cell sites in the first On 30 March 2012 the Communications Regulatory phase. Zain completed a VoLTE trial in June 2014 Authority of Namibia (CRAN) converted MTC, and plans commercial deployment at a later date. AfricaOnline and WTN licences for technology and service neutrality. CRAN advised GSA that 800 MHz Wataniya Telecom commercially launched LTE1800 (band 20) will be available by end 2014 subject to on July 9, 2013. Service to smartphones was broadcasters vacating the band. activated in some areas in September 2013. Wataniya plans to upgrade to LTE-Advanced. On MTC commercially launched LTE1800 on May 16, May 25, 2014 Wataniya rebranded to Ooredoo. 2012 in Windhoek, targeting 45% pop coverage in first year. Lebanon Telecom Namibia acquired Leo and is deploying a Alfa commercially launched LTE1800 in central unified 2G/3G/4G-LTE network. The company Beirut on May 15, 2013, plans VoLTE by end 2014. rebranded to TN Mobile, commercially launching LTE1800 on November 27, 2013 in Windhoek and Touch commercially launched LTE on May 22, 2013 surrounding areas, Walvis Bay, Swakopmund, in Beirut with 70 base stations using 800 MHz and Langstrand Henties Bay, Ondangwa, Ongwediva, 1800 MHz (LTE1800). A carrier aggregation trial Oshakati, Ohangwena and Oshikango. using 800/1800 MHz was completed in April 2013. Nigeria Libya Globacom provides LTE-connectivity to a 3rd party Al Madar plans to deploy an LTE network. company providing wireless backhaul services to corporate users in Lagos and other cities. Globacom Madagascar plans to launch LTE for mobile users in future.
WiMAX™ operator Blueline commercially launched Zoda Fones is deploying LTE TDD in band 38. LTE TDD in band 41 in April 2014. CDMA operator Starcomms is studying deployment Mauritius of LTE. A proposal is in development to merge Starcomms, Multilinks and MTS First Wireless to form Orange Mauritius commercially launched LTE1800 CAPCOM. This new company would seek to refarm on June 21, 2012 in parts of Port Luis. Coverage on 20 MHz of spectrum in the 1900 MHz band to allow it Rodrigues was launched in August 2013. to become the first national LTE broadband operator.
Emtel commercially launched LTE1800 in July 2012. In December 2012 Airtel Nigeria announced completion of an LTE trial in Lagos. Mayotte In April 2012 CDMA operator Visafone Bids for 4G/LTE licences will be invited in 2014. Communications outlined a 3-year development Outremer Telecom is committed to deploy LTE. roadmap including investment in LTE “as soon as the infrastructure and other resources are available.” Morocco SWIFT Networks acquired the WiMAX™ operation of Regulator ANRT plans to auction LTE spectrum. Inwi ISP Direct on PC to expand wireless broadband is preparing to launch LTE service. services in Abuja, Lagos and Port Harcourt. The combined entity is using the expanded capacity and spectrum (3.5 GHz and 2.3 GHz) to deploy LTE TDD alongside WiMAX™. Swift began a test program for
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500 users in August 2013 and commercially launched Bids for 4G/LTE licences will be invited in 2014. LTE TDD in band 40 in Lagos in November 2013. Outremer Telecom is committed to deploy LTE.
WiMAX™ operator Spectranet Limited commercially Rwanda launched 2.3 GHz LTE TDD in Lagos on August 20, 2013, and Abjua in November 2013. KT Corp (South Korea) is working in partnership with the Rwandan government under a JV to deploy a WiMAX™ operator Mobitel is deploying an LTE TDD nationwide wholesale LTE network which is planned network in existing 2.3 GHz spectrum. for launch in August 2014 after its current trial phase. The government has announced analogue TV Smile Communications commercially launched LTE transmissions will be switched off by July 31, 2014. in Ibadan on June 6, 2013 and extended service to Lagos in March 2014. Smile has 10 MHz paired 800 Saudi Arabia MHz band 20 spectrum. VoLTE has been trialled. Etisalat (Mobily) commercially launched LTE TDD ISP AG-Placid plans to deploy an LTE service. on September 14, 2011 via its Bayanat subsidiary in band 38 (2.6 GHz). Mobily commercially launched The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) LTE1800 FDD in January 2013 and completed auctioned 30 MHz of 2.3 GHz in February 2014 for VoLTE trials in May 2013. LTE roaming was agreed provision of a nationwide wholesale broadband with Etisalat (UAE) in early March 2014. service, won by Bitflux who will deploy LTE-TDD. STC commercially launched band 40 LTE TDD on Oman September 14, 2011. LTE1800 was introduced February 2013. On February 8, 2014 STC announced Omantel is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative commercial launch of TDD LTE-Advanced service. (GTI) and launched commercial LTE TDD service on July 16, 2012 in band 40. Omantel commercially Zain commercially launched LTE1800 on September launched LTE1800 service on December 30, 2012. 14, 2011. In June 2014 Zain confirmed that to meet growing demand for data services existing 2.1 GHz Nawras showcased LTE in March 2012 and began spectrum will be refarmed as the first step towards deploying a 2.3 GHz LTE TDD network. planned launch of LTE-Advanced carrier aggregation Subsequently the regulator granted access to 1800 combining 1800 MHz and 2.1 GHz spectrum. MHz spectrum. Nawras commercially launched LTE1800 service in Muscat, on February 17, 2013. Data service provider ITC is deploying an LTE TDD The company rebranded to Ooredoo in 2013. network using 3.5 GHz spectrum, initially in Riyadh.
Qatar Senegal
Vodafone commercially launched 150 Mbps LTE (for Orange Senegal launched an LTE trial network using Category 4 devices) using 800 MHz on June 3, 2014. 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800) on October 10, 2013.
Ooredoo commercially launched LTE on April 16, Tigo and Expresso (Sudatel) have both reportedly 2013 in Doha and Sealine Beach Resort using 800 been granted permits to trial LTE until end 2014. MHz and 2.6 GHz. Nationwide was achieved in January 2014 and the 500th LTE base station. Somalia
Réunion Somtel is deploying an LTE network.
French regulator ARCEP announced on March 13, Nordic Group has been awarded a licence and plans 2014 that LTE system test spectrum in the 1800 MHz to deploy LTE in 2014. and 2.6 GHz bands has been granted to SRR.
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WiMAX™ operator Sahal Telecoms (Glocall Tanzania Telecoms) is migrating to LTE TDD in 2014. Smile commercially launched 800 MHz (band 20) New operator SomCom recently acquired national LTE on May 30, 2012 in Dar es Salaam for a limited spectrum licences in 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2.1 GHz number of users. By May 2013 coverage reached and 2.6 GHz and is seeking an investment partner to most of Dar es Salaam for all customers. VoLTE has deploy GSM, 3G and LTE networks. been trialled.
South Africa Vodacom is deploying an LTE network using 800 MHz and 1800 MHz (LTE1800) spectrum. Vodacom commercially launched LTE1800 service on October 10, 2012 with 70 base stations in Telesis Tanzania, a mobile virtual network Johannesburg. Vodacom activated over 720 LTE aggregator (MVNA) supporting a number of MVNOs, sites by September 2013. is deploying its own 800 MHz LTE network to cover Dar es Salaam and Mtwara by October 2013, before MTN commercially launched LTE1800 with 500 sites national rollout. At time of writing this report, the in Durban, Johannesburg, and Pretoria on December website (http://www.telesis.co.tz/ ) was not launched. 1, 2012. Bloemfontein and Cape Town were covered in 2013. Almost 1,000 LTE sites were deployed by Tunisia January 2014. Tunisiana is upgrading its network to 3G and LTE. Telkom Mobile (8ta) has 70 MHz in band 40. LTE TDD was commercially launched on April 21, 2013. UAE Over 800 sites are activated for LTE. Telekom Mobile will also use LTE1800 later. The company also Etisalat commercially launched LTE on September operates a 3.5 GHz WiMAX™ network. 25, 2011 with 2.6 GHz indoors and 1800 MHz (LTE1800) outdoors in urban and suburban areas. Cell C is deploying 2.1 GHz LTE. On December 19, Cat 4 dongles were sold from June 2013. VoLTE is in 2012 a pre-commercial trial for selected heavy data deployment. Etisalat is testing 300 MBps (Cat 6) users began in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg using carrier aggregation of 1800 MHz & 800 MHz. and Pretoria. Du commercially launched LTE1800 on June 12, CDMA operator Neotel commercially launched LTE 2012 targeting 90% population coverage by 2014. using 1800 MHz (LTE1800) in Guateng on August 21, 2013. Neotel also owns 3.5 GHz and 800 MHz Regulator TRA has informed operators that 2.6 GHz spectrum. Vodacom announced in May 2014 it will is available. TRA plans to release 700 MHz and 800 buy Neotel subject to approvals being obtained, with MHz for mobile broadband by combining band 20 the deal expected to close by March 2015. with the lower duplexer (2x30 MHz) of APT700. Press release: http://www.tra.gov.ae/news514.php Wireless Business Solutions (WBS) with interests in iBurst and Broadlink plans to deploy LTE. iBurst Uganda has 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum and deployed a small LTE trial using 2.6 GHz. Smile commercially launched LTE for business users in Kampala in October 2012 in 800 MHz band 20. The Communications Ministry said 800 MHz Service was extended to consumers on June 9, 2013. spectrum would become available in 2015, and 2.6 VoLTE has been trialled. GHz could be brought into use immediately. MTN commercially launched its LTE TDD network on Swaziland April 25, 2013 in Kampala using 2.6 GHz band 41.
MTN will deploy an LTE network in 2014.
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Orange Uganda commercially launched LTE in 800 LTE-Advanced global status MHz (band 20) on July 31, 2013. The parent company has since sold its majority stake in Orange Uganda to Africell Holding. Country Operator LTE-Advanced Status Commercial service Zambia Angola Unitel Trialled CA in B3 & B8 Australia Optus Trialled 2 x 20 MHz B40 Australia Telstra Commercial 300 Mbps 20 MHz B3 + Airtel is deploying an LTE network. 20 MHz B28 Austria A1 Telekom Trialled CA MTN commercially launched LTE1800 on January 16, Austria T Mobile Trialled CA B3 and B7 2014 in Lusaka, Kitwe, Ndola and Livingstone. Belarus Becloud-MTS Trialling inc EMC tests Belgium Base Trialled 2 x 20 MHz CA Massnet is deploying a 2.6 GHz LTE FDD network. Belgium Mobistar Trialled CA B3 + B20 China China Mobile Trialled FDD-TDD CA Zamtel ran a trial network for delegates of Croatia T-Hrvatski Trialled CA using 10 MHz B3 Telekom + 10 MHz B20 UNWTOGA in Livingstone in August 2013, followed Czech 02 Czech Commercial 185 Mbps 20 MHz B3 + by commercial launch in Kitwe on January 21, 2014. Republic Republic 10 MHz B20 Czech T-Mobile Commercial 225 Mbps CA 20 MHz B3 + Zimbabwe Republic 10 MHz B20 Estonia Elisa Deploying 300 Mbps CA Econet Wireless commercially launched LTE using 20 MHz B3 + 20 MHz B7 1800 MHz (LTE1800) on August 22, 2013 in the Estonia Tele2 Deploying 300 Mbps CA Finland Elisa Deploying 300 Mbps CA Victoria Falls area to provide coverage at the 20 MHz B3 + 20 MHz B7 UNWTOGA. Coverage is now available in Bulawayo, France Bouygues Commercial CA 225 Mbps 15 MHz B3 + Harare, and Victoria Falls. Tel 15 MHz B7 France Orange Commercial CA 225 Mbps 10 MHz B20 NetOne is deploying LTE nationwide. + 20 MHz B7 France SFR Deploying CA Trialled CA B20 +B7 WiMAX™ operator Aqiva Wireless is planning to Germany DT Deploying CA deploy an LTE network. Germany O2 Trialling CA Germany Vodafone Trialled CA 225 Mbps B 7 + B20 Hong Kong CSL Trialling CA for Cat 6 20 MHz B3 + 20 MHz B7 Hungary T Mobile/MT Trialled CA B3 + B7 Israel Cellcom Deploying Italy 3 Italia CA planned B3 + B7 Italy TIM Trialling CA B3 + B7 Italy Vodafone Trialled CA 253 Mbps B3 + B7 Japan DoCoMo CA target 2015 Japan eAccess Trialling CA B9 + B42 Japan KDDI Commercial CA B1 + B18 Japan Softbank 5 carrier LTE TDD CA demoed. Trialling in B42 Jordan Zain Deploying Kuwait Viva Deploying Kuwait Ooredoo Planned Kuwait Zain Deploying CA Netherlands KPN Commercial CA Cat 4 B3 + B20 B3 + B20 Netherlands Vodafone Deploying CA 225 Mbps 10 MHz B20 + 20 MHz B3 New Zealand Vodafone CA demoed
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New Zealand Telecom NZ Deploying CA VoLTE global status 20 MHz B3 + 20 MHz B7 Philippines Smart Trialling CA Poland Polkomtel & Trialling CA LTE systems are all-IP, optimized for data transfer Cyfrowy Polsat Portugal Nos Trialling CA and do not include any circuit switched capability as Portugal Vodafone Trialled CA B3 + B7 used on previous technologies for voice and SMS Romania Orange Trialling CA for Cat 6 services. Voice service is needed on LTE networks Romania Vodafone Deploying CA for Cat 6 and is a priority for many LTE operators as network Russia MegaFon Commercial Cat 6 CA 20 MHz B7 + coverage has improved (some nationwide) and as 20 MHz B7 penetration and usage of LTE smartphones Russia Yota Trialling CA for Cat 6 increases. 66 operators in 35 countries are investing Saudi STC Commercial TDD LTE-A TDD LTE-A Arabia in VoLTE deployments, studies or trials, including 10 Saudi Arabia Zain Deploying CA operators who have commercially launched HD voice B1 + B3 using VoLTE. With the VoLTE solution (GSMA Singapore M1 CA planning for Cat 6 specification VoLTE IR.92, based on 3GPP Singapore SingTel Commercial Cat 6 CA 20 MHz B3 + standards), subscribers can use HD voice and other 20 MHz B 7 richer communication services using LTE South Korea LG U Plus Commercial CA 20MHz B5 + smartphones. An operator needs an IMS (IP Trialling B5 + B1 + B7 20MHz B1 South Korea KT Commercial CA 10MHz B3 + Multimedia System) core network and the LTE radio 10MHz B8 access network. The Evolved Packet Core must also South Korea SK Telecom Commercial CA 225 Mbps 20MHz B3 + support VoLTE e.g. by software upgrade. 10MHz B5 Spain Orange Trialled CA 225 Mbps Country Operator VoLTE status 20 MHz b7 + 10 MHz b3 Hong Kong HKT-PCCW Launched Spain Vodafone Trialling CA B3 + B7 Hong Kong 3 HK Launched Sweden Tele2-Telenor Trialling CA Japan NTT DoCoMo Launched Switzerland Sunrise Deploying CA 300 Mbps Singapore SingTel Launched B3 + B7 + B20 Singapore StarHub Launched Switzerland Swisscom Commercial CA 300 Mbps 20 MHz B3 + 20 MHz B7 South Korea KT Launched Taiwan FarEasTone Deploying CA B3 + B28 South Korea LG U+ Launched Taiwan Taiwan Mobile Deploying CA B3 + B28 South Korea SK Telecom Launched Turkey Turkcell Trialling CA USA AT&T Mobility Launched UK EE Pre-commercial CA trial USA T-Mobile US Launched 20 MHz B3 + 20 MHz B7 Algeria Algérie Telecom In deployment UAE Etisalat Trialling CA for Cat 6 Australia Optus Trialling 20 MHz B3 + 20 MHz B20 Australia Telstra Planned USA AT&T Commercial CA Chicago B4 + B17 Austria T Mobile Trialling USA DISH Planned Bulgaria Max Planned USA Sprint Commercial CA B25/B26/B41 Canada Rogers Wireless Planned USA Verizon Planned Canada Sasktel In deployment India Regulator Consultations Canada Telus In deployment China China Mobile In deployment Cat 4 networks global status Czech Republic T-Mobile Trial planned Ecuador CNT In deployment France Bouygues Telecom In deployment France Orange Planned LTE networks capable of supporting 150 Mbps peak France SFR In deployment downlink (for Cat 4 devices) are commercially launched in Germany DT In deployment Australia, Austria, Bahrain, Canada, Czech Republic, Germany E Plus Planned Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Germany O2 In deployment Hungary, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Japan, Germany Vodafone Trialled Kyrgyzstan, Moldova, Montenegro, Netherlands, New Hong Kong CSL Soft-launched Zealand, Norway, Poland, Romania, Russia, Singapore, India Bharti Airtel Trialling Slovak Republic, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, India RIL Trialling Switzerland, UAE, UK and the USA.
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India Videocon Planned LTE TDD: Global status Japan KDDI In deployment Japan Softbank In deployment 39 LTE TDD (TD-LTE) systems are commercially Kazakhstan Altel In deployment launched in 26 countries. 13 operators use both Kuwait Viva Trialling LTE FDD & TDD. Some networks are multiband. Kuwait Zain Trialled Country Operator TDD band Lebanon Alfa In deployment Australia NBN Co. Band 40 Netherlands KPN Trialling Netherlands Tele2 In deployment Australia Optus FDD & TDD Band 40 Netherlands Vodafone In deployment Bahrain Menatelecom Band 42 New Zealand Vodafone Trial planned Belgium b•lite Band 42 Nigeria Smile Communications Trialled Brazil On Telecomunicacoes Band 38 Russia MTS Trialled Brazil Sky Brazil Services Band 38 Russia Megafon In deployment Canada ABC Communications Band 42 Russia Vimpelcom Trialled Canada Sasktel FDD & TDD Band 41 Saudi Arabia Mobily In deployment China China Mobile 39/40/41 Singapore M1 In deployment China China Telecom Band 40, 41 Slovakia Slovak Telecom Planned China China Unicom Band 40, 41 Slovenia Telekom Slovenije In deployment Côte d'Ivoire YooMee Band 40 Spain Telefonica Trialling Sweden Tele2 In deployment Hong Kong CMHK FDD & TDD Band 40 Sweden TeliaSonera In deployment India Aircel Band 40 Switzerland Swisscom In deployment India Bharti Airtel Band 40 Taiwan Asia Pacific Telecom In deployment Indonesia PT Internux Band 40 Tanzania Smile Communications Trialled Japan Softbank FDD & TDD Band 41 Turkey Avea Trialling Madagascar Blueline Band 41 UAE Etisalat In deployment Nigeria Spectranet Band 40 Uganda Smile Communications Trialled Nigeria Swift Networks Band 40 UK EE In deployment Oman Omantel FDD & TDD Band 40 USA C Spire Planned Philippines PLDT Band 42 USA KPU In deployment Poland Aero2 FDD & TDD Band 38 USA US Cellular In deployment Russia Megafon FDD & TDD Band 38 USA Sprint In deployment USA Verizon Wireless In deployment Russia MTS FDD & TDD Band 38 USA VTel In deployment Russia Vainakh Telecom Band 40 S. Arabia Mobily FDD & TDD Band 38 VoLTE commitments and deployment status S. Arabia STC FDD & TDD Band 40 © GSA – Global mobile Suppliers Association S. Africa Telkom Mobile (8ta) Band 40 Note 1: The above table is not exhaustive. For example, Spain COTA Murcia4G Band 38 Vodafone said: “We will begin enabling VoLTE in Europe from H1 2014 and deployed in many markets in next 12 months.” Spain Neo-Sky Band 42 (Vodafone 4G Webinar: 27 March 2014) Sri Lanka Dialog Axiata FDD & Band 40 TDD Note 2: MetroPCS launched VoLTE in 2012. Due to spectrum constraints voice service is narrowband and not included in the Sri Lanka Lanka Bell Band 40 above list as W-AMR technology is not used. MetroPCS is now Sri Lanka SLT Band 38 part of T-Mobile US which has launched W-AMR enabled HD Sweden 3 Sweden FDD & TDD Band 38 voice using VoLTE, and is included in the above list. Uganda MTN Band 41 As the number of VoLTE deployments continues to UK UK Broadband Band 42, 43 grow across the world enabling operators to offer HD USA Sprint FDD & TDD Band 41 voice and other services to LTE subscribers, so too Vanuatu WanTok Band 40 has the availability of VoLTE-enabled terminals. 92 smartphones (including carrier and frequency For LTE TDD operator commitments, launches, variants) support VoLTE. Qualified site users can find deployments and the devices ecosystem see GSA’s more details about VoLTE-compatible VoLTE devices Status of the Global LTE TDD Market report - log in to using GSA’s GAMBoD-LTE database http://www.gsacom.com and follow the link. www.gsacom.com/gambod
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LTE TDD User Devices Ecosystem LTE1800: LTE deployments in 1800 MHz band GSA maintains a database of LTE FDD and TDD user devices announced by manufacturers. Key stats LTE network deployment in 1800 MHz is mainstream. are published in GSA’s Status of the LTE Ecosystem The motivations are clear: report. The July 14, 2014 report confirmed 1,889 • Coverage area approx. 2 times compared to products (including operator and frequency variants) deploying in 2.6 GHz band from 168 manufacturers. 941 new products were • Possibility to re-use assets including antenna launched in the past year. Many devices support both cables of GSM1800 or WCDMA-HSPA2100 FDD and TDD modes. 530 devices, which is 330 • Possibility to deploy multi-RAN with more than a year ago, can operate in the LTE TDD simultaneous LTE and GSM capabilities (TD-LTE) mode. The ecosystems for TDD bands 38 • 1800 MHz band widely available throughout (2.6 GHz) and 40 (2.3 GHz) dominate and are almost Europe, APAC, MEA, regions of South identical, each supported in 68% of TDD devices. America – thus having the potential to be a Deployments in China appear to be the main catalyst core - and global - band for LTE deployments for growth with several new product launches • Operators often have sufficient bandwidth in confirmed recently by a growing number of 1800 MHz to secure the full benefits of LTE manufacturers across different price points. • Often easier to re-farm than 900 MHz LTE TDD • User device eco-system is building; a good 2300 MHz band 40 361 devices choice of user devices available by end 2011 2600 MHz band 38 360 devices • Can be a transition strategy between HSPA 1900 MHz band 39 203 devices and availability of new (e.g. 2.6 GHz, digital 2600 MHz band 41 183 devices dividend) spectrum 3500 MHz band 42,43 24 devices
1/ Several devices are multi-band and multi-mode 2/ Certain products are carrier or country specific and are therefore not available in all markets
The LTE1800 Zone on www.gsacom.com provides a vast amount of information about deployment of LTE in 1800 MHz spectrum, including white papers by leading vendors plus updates/presentations from mobile operators, and other resources. Visit the LTE1800 Zone via the banner on www.gsacom.com
GSA REPORT: “Embracing the 1800MHz opportunity: Driving mobile forward with LTE in the 1800MHz band” www.gsacom.com/lte1800 530 LTE TDD user devices – form factors Status of the LTE Ecosystem report The report shows from practical, economic and Free download via link on www.gsacom.com business perspectives why 1800 MHz emerged as a Press release: http://www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_403.php prime band for LTE deployments in virtually all Detailed device analysis is possible using GSA’s regions of the world, and its importance for GAMBoD tool (access restrictions apply – see international roaming. www.gsacom.com/gambod). Key Findings: LTE TDD LINKEDIN group: http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=3978061 http://www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_342.php4
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144 commercially launched LTE1800 systems Finland DNA Finland Elisa 144 operators have commercially launched LTE1800 Finland TeliaSonera (band 3) systems in 70 countries either as a single France Bouygues Telecom band system, or as part of a multi-band deployment. Germany DT 1800 MHz spectrum is typically refarmed from its Germany E Plus original use for 2G/GSM, facilitated by technology- Greece Cosmote neutral licensing. 1800 MHz is the most widely used Greece Vodafone band for LTE deployments globally, serving millions Hong Kong 3HK of subscribers on over 45% of LTE networks, and is Hong Kong China Mobile HK the prime band for LTE deployments worldwide, and Hong Kong CSL Limited greatly assists international roaming for mobile Hong Kong PCCW-HKT broadband. 1800 MHz mobile licences have been Hong Kong Smartone awarded to 350+ operators in nearly 150 countries. Hungary Magyar Telekom (MT) More LTE1800 deployments are in progress. Hungary Telenor Iceland Nova Country Operator Iceland Siminn Algeria Algérie Télécom Ireland 3 Ireland Angola Movicel Ireland Meteor Angola Unitel Israel Partner – Orange Aruba Setar NV Italy 3 Italia Australia Optus Italy TIM Australia Telstra Italy Vodafone Australia Vodafone Japan eAccess (band 9) Azerbaijan Azercell Japan NTT DoCoMo Bahrain Batelco Kazakhstan Altel Bahrain Viva Kuwait Viva Bahrain Zain Kuwait Ooredoo Belgium BASE Kuwait Zain Belgium Mobistar Latvia LMT Belgium Proximus Latvia Tele2 Bhutan Bhutan Telecom Lebanon Alfa Brazil Nextel Lebanon Touch Brunei DST Liechtenstein Orange Bulgaria Max Lithuania Omnitel Cambodia Smart Axiata Lithuania Tele2 Cayman Islands Digicel Luxembourg Orange Costa Rica Claro Luxembourg POST Costa Rica Movistar Luxembourg Tango Croatia T-Hrvatski Malaysia Celcom Croatia VIPNet Malaysia Maxis Czech Republic O2 Czech Republic Macedonia T Mobile Czech Republic T Mobile Macedonia Vip Czech Republic Vodafone Malta Vodafone Denmark 3 Mauritius Emtel Denmark Telenor Mauritius Orange Denmark Telia Montenegro Crnogorski Telekom Dominican Republic Orange Dominicana Namibia MTC Estonia Elisa Namibia TN Mobile Estonia EMT Netherlands KPN Estonia Tele2 Netherlands T Mobile Fiji Vodafone Fiji Netherlands Vodafone
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New Zealand 2degrees UK 3 UK New Zealand Telecom New Zealand UK EE New Zealand Vodafone Venezuela Digitel Norway Telenor Zambia MTN Norway NetCom / TeliaSonera Zimbabwe Econet Wireless Oman Ooredoo © GSA – Global mobile Suppliers Association www.gsacom.com Oman Omantel Philippines Globe LTE1800 User Devices Ecosystem Philippines Smart Poland Mobyland/CenterNet GSA confirmed on July 14, 2014 that 769 LTE1800 Poland Orange Polska user devices are announced i.e. 170% year-on-year Poland Play growth (see form factors below). 1800 MHz has the Poland Polkomtel largest device ecosystem; over 40% of all LTE Poland T-Mobile Polska S.A devices can operate in (band 3). Portugal Meo http://www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_409.php Portugal Nos Portugal Vodafone Romania Cosmote Romania Orange Romania Vodafone Russia Tattelecom Saudi Arabia Mobily Saudi Arabia STC Saudi Arabia Zain Singapore M1 Singapore SingTel Singapore StarHub Slovak Republic O2 Slovakia Slovak Republic Slovak Telecom Slovenia Telekom Slovenije Detailed 1800 MHz device analysis is available using Slovenia Si.mobil GSA’s GAMBoD tool (access restrictions apply – see South Africa Vodacom www.gsacom.com/gambod). South Africa MTN South Africa Neotel South Korea KT LTE1800 LinkedIN Group: South Korea SK Telecom http://www.linkedin.com/groups?=&gid=3129390 Spain Movistar Spain Orange Status of the Global LTE1800 Market report Spain Vodafone Free download via link on http://www.gsacom.com Spain Yoigo Charts / maps http://www.gsacom.com/news/statistics Sri Lanka Dialog Axiata Sri Lanka Mobitel Sweden Tele2 Sweden Telenor LTE Roaming Sweden TeliaSonera Switzerland Orange Many operators offer international roaming service for Switzerland Sunrise their LTE customers – here are some examples: Switzerland Swisscom Taiwan Chunghwa Telecom Unitel Angola with Proximus Belgium Tajikistan Babilon-Mobile A1 Telekom Austria with Swisscom Switzerland UAE Du Mobistar Belgium with Orange France, Luxembourg, UAE Etisalat
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Spain, UK APT700 band plan Vodafone Greece, Italy, with Vodafone Greece, Italy, Portugal, Spain, Portugal, Spain, Romania Romania KDDI Japan with SK Telecom, Brazil Over the past 12 months industry and market support CSL, PCCW- Canada HKT, M1, France for the APT700 band plan has been building and Bouygues Hong Kong great progress is being made. Although APT700 Telecom, Singapore proposed both an FDD and TDD arrangement, for Swisscom, South Korea Orange Espana, Spain paired and paired spectrum allocations respectively, it AT&T, Rogers, Switzerland is the FDD band plan that has attracted the VIVO, Claro USA overwhelming support from industry and regulators, NTT DoCoMo Japan with AT&T, Rogers, US, USVI, Puerto Hutchison, Rico, Canada, and has already been identified for use in markets Bouygues France, HK covering almost 2.2 billion people. The FDD band Telecom configuration is standardised by 3GPP as band 28, KPN Netherlands with Various 10+ countries Telenor Norway with Various Swisscom, KPN, identifying a 2 x 45 MHz arrangement, with uplink and MTS downlink paths separated by a 10 MHz guardband. MegaFon Russia with AT&T, Rogers USA, Canada MTS Russia with Orange, Telenor, UK, Saudi various Arabia, various APT700 FDD band plan (3GPP Band 28 ) Mobily Saudi Arabia with Etisalat UAE 703-748 MHz for the uplink SingTel Singapore with Optus Australia SingTel Singapore with CSL Ltd Hong Kong 10 MHz guard band SingTel Singapore with Softbank Japan 758-803 MHz for the downlink SingTel Singapore with Maxis Malaysia SingTel Singapore with Globe Philippines Telstra, GSA and the GSM Association joined SingTel Singapore with SK Telecom South Korea SingTel Singapore with China Mobile China together last year to jointly promote APT700 SingTel Singapore with Swisscom Switzerland spectrum allocations for 4G/LTE networks and KT South Korea with China Mobile China embarked on a series of activities including briefings SK Telecom Sth Korea with Globe Philippines and lobbying at events including ITU Telecom World, TeliaSonera Sweden with TeliaSonera Norway, companies Denmark, Mobile World Congress, CommunicAsia, and on other Estonia, Finland, programmes to explain the benefits and opportunities Spain from using APT700. The main infrastructure systems TeliaSonera Norway with TeliaSonera Sweden, companies Denmark, providers including Ericsson, Huawei and Nokia have Estonia, Finland, also been actively promoting APT700. Spain TeliaSonera Denmark with TeliaSonera Norway, Sweden, 700 MHz is an excellent frequency for wide area companies Finland, Estonia, Spain coverage in regional and rural environments, and for TeliaSonera Estonia with TeliaSonera Norway, Sweden, penetrating homes and buildings, and is an important companies Finland, Denmark digital dividend arising from the shift by TV Swisscom Switzerland with Mobily Saudi Arabia Swisscom Switzerland with A1 Austria broadcasters from analogue to digital transmissions. Swisscom Switzerland with Rogers Canada The adoption of the APT700 FDD band plan by Swisscom Switzerland with KT, SK Telecom South Korea several countries across the APAC and Latin America Swisscom Switzerland with Bouygues France regions confirms the strong momentum and has Telecom Swisscom Switzerland with PCCW-HKT, Hong Kong created a major opportunity for near global spectrum Smartone, harmonization for LTE systems, thus paving the way CMHK for ensuring the greatest economies of scale for user Swisscom Switzerland with Softbank Japan Swisscom Switzerland with Globe Philippines devices and capacity for mobile broadband, and for Swisscom Switzerland with M1 Singapore international roaming. EE UK with AT&T (for US) France, Spain, US Countries that committed to, or recommend Antel Uruguay with Others Various AT&T USA with Various 15 countries allocating, APT700 FDD band for LTE deployments, The above list is representative only. Send updates to include: [email protected]
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LAC region: Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, LTE Broadcast Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama, Venezuela 2014 is an important year for LTE Broadcast. Mobile APAC/Oceania: Australia, Brunei, Fiji, India, Broadband users demand spontaneous access to Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Papua video content, a higher-quality experience and more New Guinea, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, convergent mobile services than before. Owing to the Thailand, Tonga, Vanuatu, Vietnam popularity and adoption of smartphones and tablets, UAE confirmed adoption of the lower 2 x 30 MHz mobile subscriptions for high data consumption duplexer. This is also the preferred frequency devices are expected to reach 8 billion by 2019. arrangement for 700 MHz in Europe and throughout Mobile data traffic is expected to grow 10 fold ITU Region 1, and ensures compatibility with APT700 between 2013 and 2019, driven mainly by video. LTE Broadcast enabled by eMBMS technology APT700 spectrum has been allocated in Australia, substantially reduces the bandwidth needed to deliver Chile, Ecuador, Fiji, Japan, New Zealand, Papua New multimedia content one-to-many thus allowing Guinea, South Korea, and Taiwan. operators to efficiently launch media services over LTE to meet this demand. It offers mobile-network 6 commercially launched APT700 operators: operators a profitable business proposition through service differentiation, new revenue opportunities, APT700 Network Country Launch date and more efficient distribution of live and other digital Digicel Papua New Guinea 26.03.14 media. LTE Broadcast enables multiple users to FarEasTone Taiwan 03.06.14 receive the same content simultaneously. LTE Taiwan Mobile Taiwan 04.06.14 Vodafone New Zealand 18.07.14 broadcast can deliver the same content to multiple Optus Australia 23.07.14 users with the capability to support a virtually Telstra Australia 25.07.14 unlimited number of users simultaneously, thereby Telecom NZ New Zealand planned end maintaining efficient use of spectrum and network August 2014 investments. LTE Broadcast is set to open new business models for mobile network operators. Leading chipset and device manufacturers support APT700 (band 28). GSA recently confirmed that 33 LTE Broadcast content on http://www.gsacom.com APT700-capable devices are announced by 11 * LTE Broadcast – a revenue enabler in the mobile manufacturers, i.e. smartphones, tablets, CPEs, MiFi media era (Ericsson) hotspots. APT700 operators in Taiwan offered several devices at launch for example, including MiFi * Broadcast over LTE (BBC) hotspots and own-branded phones. Log in to www.gsacom.com and follow the links. Detailed APT700 device analysis is available using GSA’s GAMBoD tool (access restrictions apply – see LTE-Broadcast market developments: www.gsacom.com/gambod). • KT (South Korea): First commercial launch of LTE Broadcast on January 27, 2014 • Telstra: World’s first stadium trial of LTE Broadcast on January 31, 2014 • Verizon Wireless: Trial during SuperBowl 2014 by For papers, presentations, updates and more • Vodafone Germany: Europe’s first trial of Visit http://www.gsacom.com/apt700 LTE Broadcast made in February 2014 in a football stadium APT700 band LINKEDIN group: • Etisalat trialling LTE Broadcast http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=4759091 • SingTel trialling LTE broadcast
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• KPN stadium trial during an Ajax soccer USA Mosaic Telecom Launched Jul 2011 Canada Bell Mobility Launched 14.09.11 match in Amsterdam on May 3, 2014 Saudi Arabia Mobily LTE TDD and later FDD Launched 14.09.11 • Verizon Wireless trial on race day at Indy Saudi Arabia STC LTE TDD and later FDD Launched 14.09.11 Saudi Arabia Zain Launched 14.09.11 500 on May 25, 2014 USA AT&T Mobility Launched 18.09.11 • Orange: trial at Roland Garros during 2014 UAE Etisalat Launched 25.09.11 Australia Telstra Launched 27.09.11 French Open tennis tournament Denmark TDC Launched 10.10.11 • EE has been investing in eMBMS-enabled Austria 3 Launched 18.11.11 LTE broadcast capabilities since 2013, and Puerto Rico AT&T Mobility Launched 20.11.11 Puerto Rico Claro Launched 24.11.11 undertaken technology trials using 2.6 GHz Kyrgyzstan Saima Telecom Launched 09.12.11 spectrum with key partners. Brazil Sky Brazil (LTE TDD) Launched 13.12.11 Finland DNA Launched 13.12.11 • EE, Qualcomm and Huawei & the BBC are Uruguay Antel Launched 13.12.11 demonstrating eMBMS-enabled LTE USA Leap Wireless/Cricket Launched 21.12.11 Singapore SingTel Launched 22.12.11 Broadcast July 24-August 3, 2014 with live Kuwait Viva Launched 27.12.11 streams from the Commonwealth Games, UK Armenia Vivacell-MTS Launched 28.12.11 Bahrain Viva Launched 01.01.12 Hungary T Mobile (MT) Launched 01.01.12 NEW ! South Korea KT Launched 03.01.12 Russia Megafon/Yota FDD and TDD Launched 15.01.12 Canada Telus Launched 10.02.12 USA Peoples Telephone Co-op Launched 14.02.12 Japan Softbank (XGP/LTE TDD) Launched 24.02.12 Portugal Meo Launched 12.03.12 Portugal Vodafone Portugal Launched 12.03.12 Portugal Nos Launched 15.03.12 Japan eAccess Launched 15.03.12 USA US Cellular Launched 22.03.12 Croatia T-Hrvatski Telekom Launched 23.03.12 LTE-Broadcast Croatia VIPNet Launched 23.03.12 http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=7435919 USA Panhandle Telephone Co-op Launched Mar 2012 Australia NBN No (LTE TDD) Launched 02.04.12 India Bharti Airtel (LTE TDD) Launched 10.04.12 Angola Movicel Launched 14.04.12 Puerto Rico Open Mobile Launched 19.04.12 Moldova IDC Launched 21.04.12 Sweden 3 Sweden LTE FDD and TDD Launched 23.04.12 526 LTE commitments in 155 countries Hong Kong China Mobile HK LTE TDD later Launched 25.04.12 Hong Kong PCCW-HKT Launched 25.04.12 © GSA – Global mobile Suppliers Association www.gsacom.com USA Cellcom Launched 30.04.12 USA Pioneer Cellular Launched 30.04.12 Country Operator Launch Netherlands Vodafone Launched 01.05.12 Norway NetCom / TeliaSonera Launched 14.12.09 Hong Kong 3 HK Launched 02.05.12 Sweden TeliaSonera Launched 14.12.09 Netherlands Ziggo Launched 03.05.12 Uzbekistan UCell Launched 09.08.10 Netherlands Tele2 Launched 08.05.12 Poland Aero2 FDD and TDD later Launched 07.09.10 Netherlands KPN Launched 11.05.12 USA T Mobile US Launched 21.09.10 Netherlands T-Mobile Launched 11.05.12 Austria A1 Telekom Launched 05.11.10 Namibia MTC Launched 16.05.12 Sweden TeleNor Sweden Launched 15.11.10 USA BendBroadband Launched 17.05.12 Sweden Tele2 Sweden Launched 15.11.10 Tanzania Smile Launched 30.05.12 Hong Kong CSL Limited Launched 25.11.10 UAE Du Launched 12.06.12 Finland TeliaSonera Launched 30.11.10 Colombia Une-EPM Launched 14.06.12 Germany Vodafone Launched 01.12.10 Azerbaijan Azercell Launched 19.06.12 USA Verizon Wireless Launched 05.12.10 Czech Rep O2 Czech Republic Launched 19.06.12 Finland Elisa Launched 08.12.10 Mauritius Orange Launched 21.06.12 Denmark TeliaSonera Launched 09.12.10 Guam IT&E Launched 28.06.12 Estonia EMT Launched 17.12.10 UK UK Broadband (LTE TDD) Launched 28.06.12 Japan NTT DoCoMo Launched 24.12.10 Hungary Telenor Launched 05.07.12 Germany Deutsche Telekom Launched 05.04.11 Dominican R Orange Dominicana Launched 09.07.12 Philippines Smart Communications Launched 16.04.11 Slovenia Si.mobil Launched 12.07.12 Lithuania Omnitel Launched 28.04.11 USA Sprint LTE FDD later TDD Launched 15.07.12 Latvia LMT Launched 31.05.11 Oman Omantel (LTE TDD) Launched 16.07.12 Singapore M1 Launched 21.06.11 USA Infrastructure Networks Launched 25.07.12 South Korea SK Telecom Launched 01.07.11 Australia Optus FDD and LTE TDD later Launched 31.07.12 South Korea LG U+ Launched 01.07.11 Mauritius Emtel Launched Jul 2012 Germany O2 (Telefonica) Launched 01.07.11 Slovak Republic O2 Slovakia Launched 02.08.12 Canada Rogers Wireless Launched 07.07.11 USA Big River Broadband Launched 07.08.12 Austria T Mobile Launched 28.07.11 Hong Kong Smartone Launched 28.08.12
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Poland Polkomtel Plus Launched 09.12 USA United Wireless Launched 09.04.13 USA Chariton Valley Comms Launched 09.12 Qatar Ooredoo Launched 16.04.13 USA Nortex Communications Launched 09.12 US Virgin Isles Sprint Launched 17.04.13 Russia MTS LTE TDD later FDD Launched 01.09.12 Bahrain Zain Launched 18.04.13 USA C Spire Wireless Launched 10.09.12 South Africa Telkom Mobile / 8ta (LTE TDD) Launched 21.04.13 Singapore StarHub Launched 19.09.12 Malaysia Ceclcom Axiata Launched 22.04.13 Japan KDDI Launched 21.09.12 Uganda MTN Uganda (LTE TDD) Launched 25.04.13 Japan Softbank Mobile Launched 21.09.12 Brazil Oi Launched 25.04.13 Canada MTS Allstream Launched 25.09.12 Maldives Ooredoo Launched 28.04.13 Denmark 3 Denmark Launched 28.09.12 Romania Cosmote Launched 29.04.13 Philippines Globe Launched 28.09.12 Brazil TIM Brasil Launched 30.04.13 Luxembourg Tango Launched 01.10.12 Brazil Vivo Launched 30.04.13 Guam DoCoMo Pacific Launched 04.10.12 USA Adams NetWorks Launched 05.2013 Tajikistan Babilon Mobile Launched 06.10.12 France Bouygues Telecom Launched 06.05.13 Norway Telenor Launched 10.10.12 Thailand True Move Launched 08.05.13 South Africa Vodacom Launched 10.10.12 USA NorthwestCell Launched 13.05.13 USA Alaska Communications Launched 12.10.12 Lebanon Alfa Launched 15.05.13 Mexico Telefonica Movistar Launched 15.10.12 USA PVT/Fuego Wireless Launched 17.05.13 Luxembourg Orange Launched 29.10.12 Lebanon Touch Launched 22.05.13 UK EE Launched 30.10.12 USA Chat Mobility Launched 23.05.13 Uganda Smile Launched Oct 2012 Switzerland Orange Launched 26.05.13 Belgium Belgacom / Proximus Launched 05.11.12 Russia Vimpelcom Launched 27.05.13 USA Bluegrass Cellular Launched 05.11.12 Spain Vodafone Launched 29.05.13 Antigua-Barb Digicel Launched 06.11.12 Spain Neo-Sky LTD TDD Launched Jun 2013 Italy Vodafone Launched 06.11.12 Russia Rostelecom Launched 03.06.13 Mexico Telcel Launched 06.11.12 Nigeria Smile Communications Launched 06.06.13 Italy TIM Launched 07.11.12 Iraq Fastlink (Regional Telecom) Launched 10.06.13 Montenegro Telenor Launched 08.11.12 USA Appalachian Wireless Launched 10.06.13 USA Sprocket Wireless Launched 09.11.12 Australia Vodafone Launched 12.06.13 Greece Cosmote Launched 16.11.12 Switzerland Sunrise Communications Launched 19.06.13 Moldova Moldcell Launched 16.11.12 Chile Claro Launched 27.06.13 USA Strata Networks Launched 19.11.12 USA MTA Launched mid-2013 Moldova Orange Launched 20.11.12 US Virgin Isles AT&T Mobility Launched 02.07.13 Romania Vodafone Launched 20.11.12 Iceland Fjarskipti (Vodafone Iceland) Launched 04.07.13 Kuwait Zain Launched 21.11.12 Malaysia DiGi Launched 05.07.13 France Orange Launched 22.11.12 Spain Orange Launched 08.07.13 USA Shentel Launched 23.11.12 Kuwait Ooredoo Launched 09.07.13 Estonia Tele2 Launched 27.11.12 Puerto Rico T Mobile Launched 11.07.13 France SFR Launched 28.11.12 Spain Yoigo Launched 18.07.13 Switzerland Swisscom Launched 29.11.12 USA Custer Telephone Launched 26.07.13 South Africa MTN Launched 01.12.12 Uganda Orange Launched 31.07.13 Romania Orange Launched 12.12.12 Venezuela Digitel Launched 31.07.13 Brazil Claro Launched 13.12.12 USA ETC Launched 08.2013 Angola Unitel Launched 16.12.12 Nigeria Spectranet (LTE TDD) Launched 20.08.13 Bolivia Entel Movil Launched 16.12.12 South Africa Neotel Launched 21.08.13 Greece Vodafone Launched 17.12.12 Zimbabwe Econet Wireless Launched 22.08.13 Puerto Rico Sprint Nextel Launched 18.12.12 UK O2 Launched 29.08.13 Kazakhstan Altel Launched 25.12.12 UK Vodafone Launched 29.08.13 Sri Lanka Dialog LTE TDD later FDD Launched 30.12.12 Kiribati TSKL Launched 02.09.13 Sri Lanka Mobitel Launched 31.12.12 Liechtenstein Orange Launched 02.09.13 Malaysia Maxis Launched 01.01.13 Russia Vainakh Telecom (LTE TDD) Launched 02.09.13 USA Thumb Cellular Launched 13.01.13 Poland Orange Polska (ex Centertel) Launched 10.09.13 Canada Sasktel LTE FDD later TDD Launched 31.01.13 Turkmenistan TMCELL Launched 18.09.13 USA GCI Launched 2013 Ireland Meteor Launched 26.09.13 USA Evolve Broadband Launched 02.13 USA Copper Valley Telecom Launched 30.09.13 Italy 3 Italia Launched 01.02.13 Belgium BASE Launched 01.10.13 Estonia Elisa Launched 14.02.13 Czech Rep T Mobile Launched 01.10.13 Canada Eastlink Launched 15.02.13 Monaco Monaco Telecom Launched 01.10.13 Paraguay Personal Launched 08.02.13 Luxembourg POST Launched 10.2013 Oman Ooredoo Launched 17.02.13 Spain Movistar Launched 10.2013 Paraguay Vox Launched 18.02.13 USA Syringa Wireless Launched 10.2013 Bahrain Batelco Launched 27.02.13 Guam GTA Launched 11.10.13 New Zealand Vodafone Launched 28.02.13 Ireland Vodafone Launched 14.10.13 Brazil On Telecomunicacoes LTE TDD Launched 03.13 Bhutan Bhutan Telecom Launched 24.10.13 Lithuania Tele2 Launched 03.13 Nigeria Swift Networks (LTE TDD) Launched 11.13 Spain COTA Murcia4G (LTE TDD) Launched 01.03.13 Malta Vodafone Launched 01.11.13 USA MiSpot Launched 14.03.13 Aruba Setar NV Launched 06.11.13 Dominican R Tricom Launched 18.03.13 New Zealand Telecom New Zealand Launched 12.11.13 Denmark Telenor Launched 20.03.13 Poland Play Launched 13.11.13 Guam iConnect Launched 20.03.13 Chile Movistar Launched 14.11.13 Slovenia Telekom Slovenije Launched 20.03.13 Indonesia PT Internux (LTE TDD) Launched 14.11.13 Iceland Nova Launched 04.04.13 Brunei DST Launched 15.11.13
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Slovak Republic Slovak Telecom Launched 15.11.13 Israel Partner – Orange Launched 15.07.14 USA S and R Communications Launched 17.11.13 India Aircel (LTE TDD) Launched 16.07.14 Bahrain Menatelecom (LTE TDD) Launched 19.11.13 Bolivia Tigo Launched 17.07.14 Costa Rica ICE Launched 25.11.13 Dominican R Claro Launched 17.07.14 Namibia TN Mobile Launched 27.11.13 Andorra Andorra Telecom 2014 USA Nex-Tech Wireless Launched 27.11.13 Antigua-Barb LIME 2014 Montenegro Crnogorski Telekom Launched 28.11.13 Australia BigAir 2014 Cayman Islands Digicel Launched 28.11.13 Azerbaijan Azerfon / Nar Mobile 2014 Cayman Islands LIME Launched 29.11.13 Azerbaijan Bakcell 2014 France Free Launched 01.12.13 Azerbaijan Sazz (LTE TDD) 2014 Greenland Tele-Post Launched 01.12.13 Bahamas CBL 2014 Colombia Movistar Launched 02.12.13 Bulgaria M-Tel 2014 Colombia Tigo Launched 02.12.13 Cambodia Sotelco 2014 Macedonia T Mobile Launched 02.12.13 Chad Tigo 2014 UK 3 UK Launched 02.12.13 Colombia Avantel 2014 Fiji Vodafone Fiji Launched 05.12.13 Colombia DirecTV 2014 USA Mid-Rivers Communications Launched 09.12.13 Czech Rep Vodafone Launched 10.12.13 Côte d'Ivoire VipNet (LTE TDD) 2014 DR Congo Smile 2014 Malaysia U Mobile Launched 17.12.13 China China Mobile (LTE TDD) Launched 18.12.13 Fiji Digicel 2014 Finland Ukko Mobile 2014 Bahamas BTC Launched 12.13 Ecuador CNT EP Launched 12.13 Ghana Blu (ex G-Kwik net ) (LTE TDD) 2014 Ghana Goldkey Telecom 2014 Latvia Tele2 Launched 12.13 USA Colorado Valley Launched 12.13 Ghana NITA (LTE TDD) 2014 Ghana Surfline Communications 2014 USA nTelos Wireless Launched 12.13 Ghana Vodafone Launched 02.01.14 Guatemala Movistar 2014 Peru Telefonica Movistar Launched 02.01.14 Honduras Tigo 2014 Italy Wind Launched 12.01.14 India Reliance (LTE TDD and FDD) 2014 India Tikona (LTE TDD) 2014 Iceland Siminn Launched 15.01.14 Zambia MTN Launched 16.01.14 India Videocon 2014 Indonesia First Media (LTE TDD) 2014 Sri Lanka SLT Launched 19.01.14 Zambia Zamtel Launched 21.01.14 Indonesia XL Axiata 2014 Iraq Newroz Telecom 2014 Cambodia Smart Axiata Launched 22.01.14 Ireland 3 Ireland Launched 27.01.14 Iraq Tishknet (LTE TDD) 2014 Ireland Imagine Group (LTE TDD) 2014 Sri Lanka Lanka Bell (LTE TDD) Launched 04.02.14 Colombia Claro Launched 13.02.14 Ireland O2 Ireland 2014 Uruguay Claro Launched 13.02.14 Isle of Man (UK) Manx Telecom 2014 China China Telecom (LTE TDD) Launched 14.02.14 Israel Cellcom 2014 Jordan Zain 2014 Germany E Plus Launched 06.03.14 China China Unicom (LTE TDD) Launched 18.03.14 Kosovo Vala 2014 Laos Beeline Lao 2014 Papua N Guinea Digicel PNG Launched 26.03.14 Chile Entel PCS Launched 28.03.14 Laos LTC 2014 Lithuania Bite 2014 Belgium Mobistar Launched 31.03.14 Madagascar Blueline (LTE TDD) Launched 04.14 Malaysia P1 Networks (LTE TDD) 2014 Macedonia ONE 2014 Costa Rica Claro Launched 01.04.14 Vanuatu WanTok (LTE TDD) Launched 01.04.14 Malaysia Asiaspace (LTE TDD) 2014 Malaysia REDtone 2014 Côte d'Ivoire YooMee (LTE TDD) Launched 04.04.14 Tajikistan Tcell Launched 15.04.14 Malaysia Telecom Malaysia 2014 Mexico Nextel de Mexico 2014 Belgium b•lite (LTE TDD) Launched 22.04.14 Canada ABC Communications (LTE TDD) Launched 23.04.14 Peru Entel 2014 Poland Milmex (LTE TDD) 2014 Philippines PLDT (LTE TDD) Launched 29.04.14 Algeria Algérie Télécom Launched 01.05.14 Romania 2K Telecom 2014 Russia Osnova Telecom (LTE TDD) 2014 Norway Tele2 Launched 01.05.14 USA KPU (Alaska) Launched 05.05.14 Rwanda KT Corp – Government JV 2014 Slovak Republic Swan Telecom 2014 Kyrgyzstan O! Launched 08.05.14 Thailand DTAC – TriNet Launched 10.05.14 Somalia Nordic Group 2014 Somalia Sahal Telecoms 2014 Bulgaria Max Launched 20.05.14 Peru Claro Launched 21.05.14 South Africa Cell C 2014 Sri Lanka Etisalat 2014 Taiwan Chunghwa Telecom Launched 29.05.14 Qatar Vodafone Launched 03.06.14 Swaziland MTN 2014 Taiwan Asia Pacific Telecom 2014 Taiwan FarEasTone Launched 03.06.14 Taiwan Taiwan Mobile Launched 04.06.14 Taiwan Star Mobile 2014 Tanzania Telesis 2014 Abkhazia A-Mobile Launched 04.06.14 Poland T-Mobile Polska S.A Launched 05.06.14 Turks & Caicos Digicel 2014 Turks & Caicos Islandcom 2014 Brazil Nextel Launched 16.06.14 Russia Tattelecom Launched 27.06.14 USA BayRICS 2014 USA CenturyLink 2014 New Zealand 2degrees Launched 30.06.14 USA VTel Launched 01.07.14 USA West Central Wireless 2014 Uzbekistan Beeline 2014 Macedonia Vip Launched 02.07.14 Costa Rica Movistar Launched 04.07.14 Zambia Massnet 2014 Malaysia YTL Communications (Yes) 2015 Slovak Republic Oramge Slovensko Launched 07.07.14 NMI IT&E Launched 14.07.14 Mongolia Mongolia Telecom 2015
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Morocco Inwi 2015 Mongolia Ulusnet (LTE TDD) To be confirmed New Caledonia OPT 2015 Montenegro Velatel (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Taiwan Hon Hai 2016 Myanmar Ooredoo To be confirmed Armenia Armentel To be confirmed Myanmar Myanmar P & T To be confirmed Angola Multitel (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Myanmar Telenor To be confirmed Armenia Orange Armenia To be confirmed Nepal Ncell To be confirmed Australia EnergyAustralia Ausgrid To be confirmed Nepal Nepal Telecom To be confirmed Australia TPG Internet To be confirmed Nicaragua IBW International (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Bangladesh Banglalion (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Nigeria AG-Placid To be confirmed Bangladesh Ollo/BIEL (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Nigeria Bitflux (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Bangladesh BTCL To be confirmed Nigeria Globacom To be confirmed Bangladesh Mango To be confirmed Nigeria Mobitel (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Bangladesh Qubee (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Nigeria Visafone Communications To be confirmed Belarus beCloud To be confirmed Nigeria Zoda Fones (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Belarus BeST (Life) To be confirmed Pakistan CMPak To be confirmed Belize BTL To be confirmed Pakistan Warid Telecom To be confirmed Belgium BUCD (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Panama Cable and Wireless To be confirmed Brit Virgin Isles Digicel To be confirmed Paraguay Tigo To be confirmed Cameroon YooMee (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Philippines Bayan Telecommunications To be confirmed Canada Core Broadband To be confirmed Puerto Rico Aeronet (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Canada Videotron To be confirmed Réunion Outremer Telecom To be confirmed Chile Nextel To be confirmed Romania RCS & RDS To be confirmed China Velatel-Aerostrong (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Russia Antares Group To be confirmed Colombia ETB To be confirmed Russia MOTIV To be confirmed Costa Rica IBW International (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Russia SMARTS To be confirmed Côte d'Ivoire Orange To be confirmed Russia Smoltelecom (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Croatia Velatel (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Russia Tele2 Russia To be confirmed Dominican R Wind Telecom To be confirmed Russia TTK To be confirmed Egypt Etisalat Misr To be confirmed Saudi Arabia ITC (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Egypt Vodafone To be confirmed Slovenia Tu-mobil To be confirmed Equat Guinea Guineanet To be confirmed Somalia SomCom To be confirmed El Salvador IBW International (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Somalia Somtel To be confirmed Ethiopia Ethio Telecom To be confirmed South Africa WBS (iBurst) To be confirmed Fiji TFL To be confirmed Taiwan Global Mobile (LTE TDD) To be confirmed France Bollore Telecom (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Tanzania Vodacom To be confirmed French Guiana Outremer Telecom To be confirmed Trinidad&Tobago Digicel T&T To be confirmed Gabon Gabon Telecom To be confirmed Trinidad&Tobago TSTT To be confirmed Germany DBD (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Tunisia Tunisiana To be confirmed Ghana Glo Mobile To be confirmed Uruguay Dedicado (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Guadeloupe Outremer Telecom To be confirmed Uruguay Movistar To be confirmed Guatemala IBW International (LTE TDD) To be confirmed UK NSV (BT) (FDD and TDD) To be confirmed Guernsey (UK) Airtel To be confirmed USA Aircell To be confirmed Guernsey (UK) JT To be confirmed USA Buggs Island Tel Co-op To be confirmed Guernsey (UK) SURE To be confirmed USA Carolina West Wireless To be confirmed Honduras Claro To be confirmed USA Etex Telephone Co-op To be confirmed Honduras Hondutel To be confirmed USA Commnet Wireless To be confirmed Hong Kong 21 Vianet Group (LTE TDD) To be confirmed USA Convergence Technologies To be confirmed Hungary Vodafone Hungary To be confirmed USA Illinois Valley Cellular To be confirmed Iceland 365 Media To be confirmed USA Immix Wireless To be confirmed India Idea Cellular To be confirmed USA Lightsquared To be confirmed India Vodafone To be confirmed USA MTPCS To be confirmed Indonesia Indosat To be confirmed USA Sagebrush Cellular (Nemont) To be confirmed Indonesia IM2 (LTE TDD) To be confirmed USA SouthernLINC To be confirmed USA SRT Communications To be confirmed Indonesia Telkomsel To be confirmed USA O2 Secure Wireless To be confirmed Iran MTC (LTE TDD) To be confirmed USA Peoples Telephone Co-op To be confirmed Iraq MaxyTel (LTE TDD) To be confirmed USA S&T Telephone Cooperative To be confirmed Israel Bezeq To be confirmed USA SGRITA To be confirmed Israel Pelephone To be confirmed USA SpeedConnect To be confirmed Isle of Man (UK) SURE To be confirmed USA Texas Energy Network To be confirmed Italy Linkem (LTE TDD) To be confirmed USA Union Wireless To be confirmed Jamaica Digicel To be confirmed USA Public Service Wireless To be confirmed Jersey (UK) Airtel To be confirmed USA City of Charlotte Council To be confirmed Jersey (UK) JT To be confirmed Vietnam RusViet Telecom To be confirmed Jersey (UK) SURE To be confirmed Venezuela Movilmax (LTE TDD) To be confirmed Kazakhstan Kcell To be confirmed Venezuela Movilnet To be confirmed Latvia Bite To be confirmed Venezuela Movistar To be confirmed Libya Al Madar To be confirmed Zambia Airtel To be confirmed Malaysia Altel To be confirmed Zimbabwe Aqiva Wireless To be confirmed Maldives Dhiraagu To be confirmed Zimbabwe NetOne To be confirmed Martinique Outremer Telecom To be confirmed Mayotte Outremer Telecom To be confirmed
69 Evolution to LTE Report
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51 pre-commitment LTE trials, studies Country Operator Åland Islands Ålands Telefonandelslag Afghanistan Etisalat Argentina Telefonica Argentina Personal Belarus MTS Belgium Telenet Bosnia – H Telekom Srpske trial completed Bosnia – H BH Telecom is planning a trial Botswana Mascom Wireless Brazil Algar Telecom (CTBC) Bulgaria Vivacom Canada Wind Mobile Canada Xplornet (LTE TDD) Egypt Mobinil Finland Anvia – trialling in 700 MHz spectrum Georgia Magticom India BSNL – study phase LTE TDD India MTNL – study phase LTE TDD India SSTL studying LTE800 (CDMA band) Indonesia Bakrie Telecom Indonesia Berca Hardayaperkasa LTE TDD Jersey Clear Mobitel Jordan Umniah – LTE trials completed Latvia Triatel Latvia Lattelecom Kazakhstan Beeline Kazakhstan Tele2 Kenya Safaricom New Zealand Kordia – study phase New Zealand Woosh – study phase Nigeria Airtel Nigeria – Lagos trials completed Nigeria Starcomms – study phase Réunion SRR trial in 1800 MHz & 2.6 GHz Saint Martin Dauphin Telecom Senegal Orange – trial started Senegal Expresso/Sudatel – authorized to trial Senegal Tigo – authorized to conduct trial South Korea KMI applied for LTE TDD licence Spain “R” conducting LTE TDD trials Taiwan Fitel (LTE TDD) Thailand DPC/AIS Turkey Avea Turkey Turkcell Turkey Vodafone Ukraine MTS-Ukraine USA DISH Network - nTelos LTE TDD trial USA ISICSB Vietnam FPT Telecom Vietnam Indochina Telecom LTE TDD Vietnam VDC (VNPT) Vietnam Viettel
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Spectrum used in commercially launched LTE networks Source: GSA
LTE FDD networks
The chart (left) shows the main frequency bands currently in use in 318 commercially launched FDD networks, according to information provided in GSA’s Evolution to LTE report of July 28, 2014.
Almost 92% of LTE operators have deployed the FDD mode of the standard. The most widely used band in network deployments in commercial service today continues to be 1800 MHz which is used in over 45% of commercially launched LTE networks. 144 operators worldwide have launched LTE1800 (band 3) systems, either as a single band system, or as part of a multi- band deployment. As 1800 MHz is the prime band for LTE deployments worldwide, it will greatly assist international roaming for mobile broadband services.
The next most popular contiguous bands are 2.6 GHz (band 7) as used in 26.4% of networks in commercial service, followed by 800 MHz (band 20) used in 17.3% of networks, and AWS (band 4) used in 8.8% of networks.
Download the above spectrum chart at http://www.gsacom.com
LTE TDD networks Approximately 1 in 8 LTE operators have commercially launched the TDD mode.
3GPP band Frequency Number of 39 operators have deployed the TDD mode in their LTE networks: networks • 26 operators used TDD mode only 40 2.3 GHz 19 • 13 operators used both FDD and TDD 38 2.6 GHz 9 41 2.6 GHz 8 42 3.5 GHz 6 The frequency bands that are currently in use in 39 commercially 39 1.9 GHz 1 launched TDD networks are shown in the table (left).
Note: some LTE TDD networks use more than one spectrum band
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Worldwide LTE subscriptions: 245.4 million – Q1 2014
Download the above LTE subscriptions growth and regional shares charts (available in PDF and jpeg file formats) from the GSA website at http://www.gsacom.com/news/statistics
1,889 LTE User Devices launched – July 14, 2014 (GSA report)
See GSA’s Status of the LTE Ecosystem report: Free download for GSA registered site users via the link on http://www.gsacom.com
Press release: http://www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_409.php
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GSA’s Status of the LTE Ecosystem report (July 14, 2014) confirmed that 168 manufacturers have announced 1,889 LTE-enabled user devices, including operator and frequency variants. 941 new LTE user devices were launched in the past year, representing virtually 100% annual growth. The number of manufacturers increased by 68% in the same period. Rapidly expanding LTE network coverage, boosted by digital dividend spectrum coming into use in several markets, the introduction of LTE-Advanced capabilities by operators in all regions, and the fast developing TDD market in China are amongst the key drivers behind the fantastic growth reported. Smartphones underlined their status as the largest device category. There are 835 LTE-enabled smartphones with share growing to over 44% of all LTE device types. The choice of LTE-connected personal hotspots (MiFi) and tablets has grown. 175 LTE-enabled tablets are available, representing 9.2% of all LTE devices, with 43 more products now on the market compared to in March 2014. 1800 MHz (3GPP band 3) continues to be the most often used band for LTE network deployments globally. 769 LTE1800 user devices have been announced, achieving 170% year on year growth. Over 40% of all LTE devices can operate in 1800 MHz (band 3). The Status of the LTE Ecosystem report covers LTE FDD and TDD devices. While the majority of terminals operate in the FDD mode, support for the TDD mode (TD-LTE) has significantly strengthened. 530 devices, which is 330 more than a year ago, can operate in the LTE TDD (TD-LTE) mode. The ecosystems for TDD bands 38 (2.6 GHz) and 40 (2.3 GHz) dominate and are almost identical, each being supported in 68% of TDD devices in the market. Deployments in China appear to be the main catalyst for growth with several new product launches being confirmed recently by a growing number of manufacturers and across different price points. Another key trend is the growing availability of Category 4 and Category 6 terminals for the rapidly growing number of LTE-Advanced network deployments. There are now 373 Category 4 terminals (capable of supporting up to a theoretical downlink speed of 150 Mbps) plus a further 7 Category 6 devices (300 Mbps). The report notes increasing support by device manufacturers for the APT700 FDD band plan (3GPP band 28) which has been formally adopted, is recommended or has been allocated in several markets. APT700 networks are commercially launched in the Asia/Oceania region, including in Taiwan. 33 APT700-capable devices have been announced by 11 manufacturers comprising smartphones, tablets, CPEs and MiFi hotspots. As the number of VoLTE deployments continues to grow across the world enabling operators to offer HD voice and other services to LTE subscribers, so too has the availability of VoLTE-enabled terminals. 92 smartphones (including carrier and frequency variants) support VoLTE.
Download the above charts and more charts, maps etc. from http://www.gsacom.com/news/statistics
LTE User Devices LinkedIN Group http://www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=4146472
Leading conferences where LTE will be discussed - with GSA participation at the event * LTE Voice Summit: London (7-8 October 2014)
* ITU Telecom World 2014: Doha (7-10 December 2014)
Other events will be announced in future report updates. See GSA website Events page for details and information about these and all GSA-supported events http://www.gsacom.com/events/index.php4
Member discounts are available for most events
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