Danish operator Hi3G Access (3) has revealed plans to commence the initial phase-out of its 3G network in 2020 by allocating 10MHz in the 2100MHz band (from its total holding of 15MHz) for 4G.
In addition, 3 is planning to start using the 700MHz and 900MHz spectrum it acquired in 2019 for 5G (700MHz) and 4G (900MHz). Kim Christensen, Network Director at 3, explained: ‘The frequencies of the 900MHz bands extend longer than the shorter frequencies, such as 2100MHz, thus providing wider coverage. Therefore, it makes sense for us to establish 4G at 900MHz in rural areas where the population is spread over a larger geographical area.’
The executive added: ‘All of our network extensions and upgrades in 2020 will be 5G compatible. And of course we look forward to the 5G auction, which the Danish Energy Agency (DEA) plans to hold in 2020, when the 3.5GHz band will be put up for tender. When we get access to it, we can seriously increase the capacity of the network and start giving customers a taste of how the future of mobile broadband coverage will be able to measure with fibre.’ 3’s network currently consists of more than 2,300 masts and covers 99% of the population with 4G; the operator is planning to deploy 200 new masts in 2020.
Source: https://www.commsupdate.com/articles/2020/02/03/3-denmark-to-start-phasing-out-3g-in-2020/