BSNL pens deal with Softbank, NTT Communications for 5G roll-out
BSNL has penned a deal with Japan's Softbank and NTT Communications to roll out 5G and internet-of-things (IoT) technologies in India. Speaking to PTI, BSNL chairman and MD, Anupam Shrivastava, confirmed the deal, saying that the focus of implementing these technologies will be geared towards smart cities. Notably, BSNL already has a deal with Nokia and Cisco for developing a 5G ecosystem. Here's more.
BSNL chairman Anil Shrivastava's statement
"We have signed an agreement with Softbank and NTT Communications to roll out 5G and IoT products and services in India. Under the agreement, we will look at solution specially for the smart cities," said BSNL chairman Anil Shrivastava.
5G trials to start soon; other options for collaboration
Explaining BSNL's plans, Shrivastava said that the state-run telco was in the "advance stages of starting field trials". Once the government provides BSNL with 5G spectrum, field trials are slated to begin. The deal with Softbank will also allow BSNL the possibility of collaborating with Softbank in creating a constellation of 900 satellites to provide high-speed internet connectivity across the world.
TRAI has recommended auctioning 5G spectrum
Insofar as allocation of 5G spectrum is concerned, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended the auction of 8,664 Mhz of telecom frequencies at an estimated base price of around Rs. 4.9 lakh crore. Details about allocation are yet to be finalized.
Leading companies are turning to BSNL for 5G roll out
Shrivastava explained that with most telecom service providers in India still focusing on monetizing their 4G services, leading companies have started turning to BSNL for rolling out 5G services and internet-of-things (IoT) technology. The BSNL chairman further added that telecom minister Manoj Sinha's various international meets on 5G technology aided the state-run telecom company to sign agreements on 5G technology with global companies.
Sinha, Shrivastava promise 5G by 2020
Manoj Sinha himself has set 2020 as the target for 5G roll out in India. This would mark a break from the trend - 3G came to India seven years after it came to foreign markets, 4G came after four years. However, Shrivastava has assured that once 5G standards are approved by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU), India will get the technology.
