Russian operator MTS has launched an outdoor pilot 5G network zone in partnership with Ericsson and Qualcomm.
Based in the city of Ufa, the 5G zone functions by using Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) technology over MTS’ current commercial 4G/LTE network to allocate frequencies as required between the 4G and 5G NR networks. Once MTS receives clearance from Russia’s regulator, it will be able to expand 5G coverage rapidly using DSS via its LTE infrastructure.
As reported by CommsUpdate, MTS has used Ericsson’s spectrum sharing solution to deploy DSS at many of its 1800MHz and 2100MHz base stations. MTS has tested the technology using 5G handsets that it will soon begin offering in its retail outlets – the Oppo Reno 4 Pro and Nokia 8.3 5G.
Another 5G first has been achieved in Slovakia, with Slovak Telekom (ST) claiming the country’s first commercial 5G launch across eight districts in the capital city, Bratislava.
The operator has stated that 5G will be offered via 15MHz of 2100MHz spectrum used in conjunction with its LTE spectrum holding, and claims that its network can deliver realistic download speeds of 300Mbps-600Mbps, with upload speeds of 60Mbps-80Mbps.
As noted by TeleGeography, ST’s local rivals O2 and 4ka have already launched 5G pilot networks – respectively, these cover small areas in Bratislava and Banska Bystrica. Orange has lined up April 2021 for a 5G launch in the capital, having obtained 5G-ready 700MHz spectrum at auction – along with ST and O2.