DNA Finland says it is now conducting its 5G fixed broadband service tests in Vantaa using what it terms ‘the actual 5G frequency’, having initially used 4G spectrum for the trials. In a press release regarding the development the operator noted that the tests – which are being carried out in a residential area of the city – have switched to using 3.5GHz spectrum for all customers participating in the technical test group. DNA noted that the pilot scheme is studying the operation of the 3.5GHz frequency band and Massive MIMO antenna technology in home broadband systems.
Commenting, DNA’s Senior Vice President in Consumer Business, Pekka Vaisanen, said: ‘The test is a part of DNA’s service development, which allows us to bring high speed broadband connections to detached homes in areas without access to optical fibre connections. We have asked the test group for comprehensive information about the usability of the service and based on the results we have adjusted the service implementation.’
Looking ahead, DNA has said it broadband services based on 5G technology for detached homes and rural areas will be made available ‘once high-quality network terminals and customer terminal devices are introduced into the market’.
In separate but related news, it has also been confirmed that Finda Telecoms and PHP Holding, DNA’s two largest shareholders, have approved the proposed sale of their respective stakes to Norwegian telecoms giant Telenor Group. As previously reported by CommsUpdate, last month Telenor entered into separate agreements with Finda Telecoms and PHP Holding to acquire a total of 54% of DNA’s shares, saying it would pay EUR20.9 (USD23.5) per share in cash, for a total of EUR1.5 billion.