State-owned telecom leader, Viettel, has announced the successful testing of Vietnam's first standalone 5G network, setting the stage for future commercial rollout.
The company revealed that the tests were completed just three months following the receipt of 5G frequency licenses from the Ministry of Information and Communications.
"This can be considered a major step toward the launch of 5G commercial services," Viettel said in a statement, though it did not specify a launch date.
As of the end of Q1 2024, 58 countries had successfully tested standalone 5G networks out of the 175 countries engaged in 5G testing or commercialization.
A Substitute for Fiber Optic Networks
A standalone 5G network relies on equipment designed exclusively for 5G services, unlike a non-standalone network that integrates with existing 4G infrastructure. Standalone 5G systems provide enhanced services, greater flexibility, and increased scalability compared to 4G, although they entail higher costs.
Utilizing standalone equipment, Viettel confirmed it will be able to provide advanced services for both individual and business users, including features like calls with integrated translation and high-speed data transfer. The company also noted that standalone 5G technology could potentially serve as a substitute for fiber optic networks.
In 2019, Viettel also became the first company in Vietnam to conduct a call using a non-standalone 5G network.
Viettel is currently collaborating with leading smartphone manufacturers in Vietnam to update their firmware, ensuring compatibility with the new standalone 5G network.
Vietnam is set to introduce commercial 5G services later this year. The three companies that have successfully secured 5G frequency licenses are Viettel, VNPT, and MobiFone.