Airtel is making significant strides in its 5G rollout strategy, preparing to launch an advanced dual-mode 5G service across numerous telecom circles in India, while this new service is poised to revolutionize the internet experience for its users, promising double the internet speed and Importantly improved connectivity. The move underscores Airtel's commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology and a superior digital experience to its vast customer base, marking a pivotal moment in the country's 5G evolution.
The Dawn of Dual-Mode 5G
Airtel's upcoming advanced 5G service will use a dual-mode network, providing users access to both Non-Standalone (NSA) and Standalone (SA) 5G networks. This strategic decision was announced during the company's recent earnings investor call. While NSA 5G utilizes the existing 4G infrastructure, SA 5G operates on a dedicated, new 5G core network. The combination of these two technologies is expected to deliver a more stable and reliable 5G internet speed, leading to Importantly better connectivity. This hybrid approach aims to provide users with an uninterrupted, high-speed internet experience, whether they're streaming high-definition content, engaging in online gaming, or downloading large files, ensuring a easy digital journey.
Enhanced Experience for AirFiber Users
In a key announcement, Airtel's Managing Director, Gopal Vittal, revealed that the company is actively migrating its Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) customers, commonly known as AirFiber users, to the dual-mode 5G network. This migration is specifically designed to provide AirFiber users with enhanced connectivity and more stable internet speeds. This initiative is particularly beneficial for customers who rely on wireless broadband solutions for their homes and businesses, ensuring they receive a consistent and high-quality internet service. The upgrade is expected to Importantly improve the performance and reliability of. Their internet connections, catering to the growing demand for strong home broadband.
Strategic Rollout Across India
Airtel has already commenced the rollout of its dual-mode 5G service in 13 telecom circles across the country. Also, the company is actively preparing to extend this advanced 5G network to additional telecom circles. This phased rollout strategy is designed to ensure that a wider segment of the population can benefit from the enhanced 5G connectivity. Airtel's ambition is to make this advanced network available in all major regions of the country in the near future, thereby contributing Importantly to the vision of a digitally empowered India. This expansion plan reflects the company's dedication to providing state-of-the-art technology and services to its customers.
It's noteworthy that Airtel initially launched its NSA 5G service in 2022, leveraging its existing 4G infrastructure. This approach allowed the company to quickly deploy 5G services across various regions, while now, by integrating SA (Standalone) 5G network alongside its existing 4G infrastructure, Airtel is moving towards offering a more strong and future-proof 5G experience. In contrast, Reliance Jio launched its SA (Standalone) 5G service across India, building an entirely new 5G core network from the ground up. The combination of NSA + SA networks in Airtel's offering is expected to provide its customers with a more. Stable 5G internet speed, thereby improving overall connectivity and allowing users to benefit from the best of both technologies.
**Airtel's 5G Journey vs.
Potential Surge in Recharge Costs
In related news, there are indications that telecom companies, including Airtel and Vodafone-Idea, might increase the prices of their recharge plans as early as next month, in December. Several recent reports have highlighted recommendations from telecom companies to increase the Average Revenue Per User (ARPU). An increase in ARPU is crucial for companies to cover operational costs and generate returns on the significant investments made in 5G network infrastructure. It's worth recalling that telecom companies last hiked their recharge plans in July of the previous year, which saw prices for all private telecom operators increase by 20 to 25 percent. However, there has been no official announcement from either Airtel or Vodafone-Idea regarding these potential price hikes. This potential increase in tariffs could be a concern for customers,. Especially as they anticipate enjoying the benefits of advanced 5G services.
