Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) is actively testing 5G technology as part of its larger effort to modernize its network. The state-run telecom operator has been assigned the task of deploying 4G services at 100,000 sites by the end of the financial year, as the Indian government pushes for BSNL to become profitable. A smooth transition to 5G is seen as a natural progression for the company. However, given the delays in BSNL’s 4G rollout, the government is keen to avoid further setbacks with 5G.
BSNL’s 5G trials are being conducted in collaboration with the Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DOT), which is also providing the core network for 4G. Notably, the same core can support both 4G and 5G with minimal upgrades, which is currently being tested. A demonstration of BSNL’s 5G capabilities could potentially be showcased at the India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2024.
Get ready for faster speed with low latency. 5G indigenous technology under testing.
— BSNL India (@BSNLCorporate) September 10, 2024
Stay tuned for more updates. #BSNL #MTNL #5GTesting pic.twitter.com/8LAr5jEmO6
If successful, BSNL would become the second telecom company in India, after Jio, to offer 5G services using an indigenous network core. This represents a significant milestone for India, as the core technology could be exported to other countries seeking cost-effective 4G and 5G deployment options, as opposed to relying on expensive network solutions from global vendors like Ericsson.
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Officials have hinted that BSNL could launch 5G services by early 2025. While this would be an important step for the company, the immediate focus remains on 4G, which is expected to be the more commercially viable network in the short term. A gradual 5G rollout wouldn’t harm BSNL, but the primary opportunity for growth lies in enhancing its 4G services, where the mass customer base and revenue potential are concentrated.
