VinaPhone launches Vietnam’s first 4G services
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Vietnam’s VinaPhone has become the market’s first operator to launch 4G services, commencing with a deployment providing full coverage of Phu Quoc Island.
The VNPT mobile subsidiary has deployed 100 4G base stations to provide total coverage of the island.
The operator plans to rapidly deploy 4G services in 2017, installing 21,000 base stations nationwide.
Pricing will be set at the same or in some cases lower rates than 3G services. The company will use the network for services including mobile TV and cloud video conferencing.
VinaPhone began commercial 4G trials in January, and was awarded a commercial license in the 1800-MHz band last month, along with MobiFone and Viettel.
Viettel has separately revealed plans to launch its own 4G services in the first quarter of next year. The operator is ready to deploy services nationwide following extensive testing in the province of Vung Tau.
According to the report, Viettel plans to differentiate by focusing on nationwide expansion, in contrast to deploying in major cities first. The company took a similar approach during it 2G rollout around a decade earlier.
Questions & Answers
Q.Where has VinaPhone initially launched its 4G services?
Where has VinaPhone initially launched its 4G services?
VinaPhone has launched its 4G services with full coverage of Phu Quoc Island. This initial deployment involved installing 100 4G base stations across the island.
Q.How will VinaPhone's 4G pricing compare to its 3G services?
How will VinaPhone's 4G pricing compare to its 3G services?
VinaPhone intends to set pricing for its 4G services at the same rates as 3G. In some cases, the company has indicated that 4G rates may even be lower than existing 3G services.
Q.What is Viettel's strategy for deploying its 4G network?
What is Viettel's strategy for deploying its 4G network?
Viettel plans to differentiate its 4G rollout by focusing on nationwide expansion from the start. This approach contrasts with deploying services in major cities first, mirroring its 2G rollout strategy.
Q.What band is VinaPhone using for its 4G services?
What band is VinaPhone using for its 4G services?
VinaPhone was awarded a commercial license in the 1800-MHz band last month for its 4G services. MobiFone and Viettel also received licenses for this band.
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