TOT allows AIS to trial use of 2.1-GHz spectrum

1 min readUpdated May 19, 2025Mar 25, 201612:59 AM

In this article (5)

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.

AdvertisementAdvertise with usMobile 320×100

What this means

This trial significantly advantages AIS, granting early access to critical 2100-MHz spectrum to meet rising data demand. It pressures rivals who may lack similar agreements, particularly Dtac, which AIS is already collaborating with for 2G migration. However, the NBTC's scrutiny, stemming from an informal complaint, introduces a considerable risk to the commercialisation of this arrangement. Similar to Lumio Solar's strategic investment in the Philippines, this move aims to bolster infrastructure, though Panpuri's store expansion illustrates a different growth strategy. The desk believes this pre-commercial trial puts AIS in a stronger competitive position, assuming NBTC approves the underlying partnership. The critical next step is the public announcement of the finalised partnership deal terms.

Rajiv Menon · Retail News Asia newsroom

Questions & Answers

Has AIS been granted permission to use the 2.1-GHz spectrum commercially?

No, TOT has not yet permitted AIS to commercially use the spectrum. The current permission is only for conducting technical testing.

Which regulatory body is investigating TOT's decision to allow the trial?

The regulator NBTC is looking into the decision. This follows an informal complaint about allowing the trial before partnership terms are finalised.

What is AIS's reason for wanting access to more spectrum?

AIS is keen to acquire access to more spectrum to meet the rising data demand from its customers.

Which company currently provides wireless broadband using AIS's own spectrum holdings?

AIS subsidiary AWN currently provides wireless broadband. It uses 15MHz of its own 2100-MHz spectrum and 15MHz of 1800-MHz spectrum.

Reader pulse

What is the biggest challenge for this AIS/TOT deal?

22,620 votes so far