5G to Launch in Million-City Urban Centers
There is no internet, but 5G will be: The Ministry of Digital Development promised to launch the technology in million-population cities. Against the backdrop of communication restrictions and the regular introduction of 'whitelists' in regions, the Ministry of Digital Development announced the launch of 5G in million-population cities 'as soon as possible'.
Consensus
- The Ministry of Digital Development announced the upcoming launch of 5G networks in cities with populations exceeding one million.
- The State Commission on Radio Frequencies approved the use of existing LTE frequencies by operators Beeline, Megafon, MTS, and T2 for 5G networks.
- The rollout will occur under conditions of technological neutrality.
- The 5G standard offers higher data transmission speeds, lower latency, and increased capacity.
- The development of 5G networks is expected to stimulate domestic telecommunications equipment production.
- The initial rollout will focus on major urban locations in cities with over one million inhabitants.
Points of divergence
- The rollout is expected by the end of 2028, with gradual expansion over three years in the 4.63–4.99 GHz band. — tg_govorit_nemoskva
- Only 5–20% of smartphones support the chosen frequency band, and iPhone users are unlikely to access Russian 5G due to lack of Apple's support and sanctions. — tg_govorit_nemoskva
- Operators previously rejected the auction for frequencies in the 4.8–4.99 GHz range as unprofitable. — vedomosti
- The ministry is considering expanding the main 5G frequency range to 4400–4990 MHz. — vedomosti
- Operators have long considered the 3400–3800 MHz band the priority 'golden band' for 5G deployment. — vedomosti
- Residents in regional public groups reacted with sarcasm, questioning the relevance of 5G amid poor existing connectivity and frequent 'white list' restrictions. — tg_govorit_nemoskva
Coverage (2 sources)
- There is no Internet, but 5G will be: Ministry of Digital Affairs promised to launch the technology in million-plus cities — Говорит НеМосква
- Ministry of Digital Economy announced imminent launch of 5G in million-population cities — Ведомости