TOT allows AIS to trial use of 2.1-GHz spectrum

Thai state-owned operator TOT has granted former concession holder AIS permission to provide a trial mobile service over the 2100-MHz spectrum band.

TOT has not yet permitted AIS to commercially use the spectrum but will allow the private operator to conduct technical testing ahead of the signing of a planned partnership deal.

But regulator NBTC is looking into the decision to allow the trial using 15 MHz of the 2100-MHz band after receiving an informal complaint complaining that this should not be allowed as they have yet to finalize the terms of the partnership.

The operators are currently negotiating a deal to provide a joint 3G service over TOT’s 2100-MHz spectrum.

AIS had been using the spectrum as part of its earlier build-operate-transfer concession agreement with the state-owned company.

AIS subsidiary AWN currently provides wireless broadband over 15MHz of its own 2100-MHz spectrum and 15MHz of 1800-MHz spectrum, both acquired at auction under the new licensing regime. But the operator is keen to acquire access to more spectrum to meet rising data demand.

In addition, AIS has reportedly reached an agreement with rival Dtac to roam the remaining AIS 900-MHz 2G subscribers to Dtac’s 1800-MHz network upon the switch-off of the 900-MHz service.