Thailand’s two largest operators AIS and True Move have been granted approval by the NBTC to trial 5G on the 26GHz band.
The operators will be able to test their 5G equipment from tomorrow (22nd November) until 15th December. The regulator has stipulated that they must report their results, particularly regarding any interference from other spectrum bands.
Market leader AIS will conduct the tests in partnership with Nokia, while second placed True Move has selected Huawei. Third-placed operator dtac has reportedly told the NBTC that it will apply to run 5G trials, according to the Bangkok Post.
AIS’s head of operations and technical support Wasit Wattanasap said that the trials would make the operator “ready to bring the 5G fast experience to the Thai people. This November, Thais can clearly see the benefits of the next-generation technology”.
2.6GHz spectrum was originally slated to be sold at some point in 2017, with the NBTC aiming for 5G services to be deployed by operators in 2020. However, the auction has been delayed indefinitely.
AIS has the most bandwidth of Thailand’s operators, with a 120MHz spectrum holding. True Move follows it with 55MHz while dtac holds 50MHz, but has access to a further 60MHz of 2.3GHz spectrum via a concession with state operator TOT.
