GSA_Evolution_to_LTE_report_110712.pdf

July 11, 2012

Evolution to LTE Report

338 operators are investing in LTE in 101 countries

280 operator commitments in 90 countries 58 pre-commitment trials in 11 more countries

89 commercial networks in 45 countries

GSA forecasts 150 commercial LTE networks in 64 countries by end 2012

GSA confirms LTE is the fastest developing mobile system technology ever

July 11, 2012 © GSA

Country Operator Launch Norway TeliaSonera 14.12.09

Sweden TeliaSonera 14.12.09

Uzbekistan MTS 28.07.10

Uzbekistan UCell 09.08.10

Poland Aero2 (LTE FDD and TDD) 07.09.10

USA MetroPCS 21.09.10

Austria A1 Telekom 05.11.10

Sweden TeleNor Sweden 15.11.10

Sweden Tele2 Sweden 15.11.10

Hong Kong CSL Limited 25.11.10

Finland TeliaSonera 30.11.10

Germany Vodafone 01.12.10

USA Verizon Wireless 05.12.10

Finland Elisa 08.12.10

Denmark TeliaSonera 09.12.10

Estonia EMT 17.12.10

Japan NTT DoCoMo 24.12.10

Germany Deutsche Telekom 05.04.11

Philippines Smart Communications 16.04.11

Lithuania Omnitel 28.04.11

Latvia LMT 31.05.11

Singapore M1 21.06.11

South Korea SK Telecom 01.07.11

South Korea LG U+ 01.07.11

Germany O2 01.07.11

Canada Rogers Wireless 07.07.11

Austria T-Mobile 28.07.11

USA Mosaic Telecom July 2011

Canada Bell Mobility 14.09.11

Saudi Arabia Mobily (LTE TDD) 14.09.11

Saudi Arabia STC (LTE TDD) 14.09.11

Saudi Arabia Zain 14.09.11

USA AT&T Mobility 18.09.11

UAE Etisalat 25.09.11

Australia Telstra 27.09.11

Denmark TDC 10.10.11

Austria 3 18.11.11

Puerto Rico AT&T Mobility 20.11.11

Puerto Rico Claro 24.11.11

Kyrgyzstan Saima Telecom 09.12.11

Brazil Sky Brazil (LTE TDD) 13.12.11

Finland DNA 13.12.11

Uruguay Antel 13.12.11

USA Cricket 21.12.11

Singapore SingTel 22.12.11

Kuwait Viva 27.12.11

Armenia Vivacell-MTS 28.12.11

Bahrain Viva Bahrain 01.01.12

Hungary T Mobile 01.01.12

South Korea KT 03.01.12

Russia Yota 15.01.12

Canada TELUS 10.02.12

USA Peoples Telephone Co-op 14.02.12

Japan Softbank Mobile XGP/LTE TDD 24.02.12

Portugal TMN (Portugal Telecom) 12.03.12

Portugal Vodafone Portugal 12.03.12

Portugal Optimus 15.03.12

Japan eMobile 15.03.12

USA US Cellular 22.03.12

Croatia T Mobile/T-Hrvatski Telekom 23.03.12

Croatia VIPNet 23.03.12

USA Panhandle (PTCI) March 2012

Belarus Yota Bel 01.04.12

Australia NBN Co (LTE TDD) 02.04.12

India Bharti Airtel (LTE TDD) 10.04.12

Angola Movicel 14.04.12

Puerto Rico Open Mobile 19.04.12

Moldova IDC 21.04.12

Sweden 3 (LTE FDD and TDD) 23.04.12

Hong Kong China Mobile HK 25.04.12

Hong Kong PCCW 25.04.12

USA Cellcom 30.04.12

USA Pioneer Cellular 30.04.12

Netherlands Vodafone 01.05.12

Hong Kong Hutchison 3 HK 02.05.12

Netherlands Ziggo 03.05.12

Netherlands Tele2 08.05.12

Netherlands KPN 11.05.12

Netherlands T-Mobile 11.05.12

Namibia MTC 16.05.12

USA BendBroadband 17.05.12

Tanzania Smile 30.05.12

UAE Du 12.06.12

Colombia Une-UPM 14.06.12

Azerbaijan Azercell 19.06.12

Czech Rep Telefonica O2 19.06.12

Mauritius Orange 21.06.12

UK UK Broadband (LTE TDD) 28.06.12

Dominican R. Orange Dominicana 09.07.12

July 11, 2012: 89 commercial LTE networks © Global mobile Suppliers Association

July 11, 2012


GSA’s definition of commercial launch: the phase in which a public telecommunications operator is carrying commercial traffic on its LTE network, or offers to provide public service. Only licensed operators with spectrum assigned for use in public LTE communications networks are considered. MVNOs are not included. The LTE operator’s business model may be retail or wholesale. Devices compatible for use on the LTE network may be sold direct by the operator to the customer, or via distributors, resellers or other third parties, or already be owned by persons wishing to use the service.

The 3GPP LTE system, which comprises FDD and TDD modes, delivers capacity and data throughput enhancements and low latency to support new services and features requiring higher levels

of capability and performance. The primary drive towards LTE from operators is the need for more capacity, performance management and improved efficiencies to lower the unit cost of delivering traffic. LTE is the next step in the user experience, enhancing more demanding applications such as interactive TV, mobile video blogging, advanced gaming, and professional services. LTE supports a full IP-based network and harmonization with other radio access technologies and is the natural evolution choice for GSM/HSPA, CDMA and WiMAX™ network operators, thereby enabling a single unifying global standard for even higher scale economies and simplifying roaming. LTE is a global phenomenon.

Spectrum for LTE deployments

Pressure on spectrum resources will continue. Operators should deploy the most efficient technologies available to them. LTE can be deployed in existing 2G or 3G bands, and in new spectrum such as 2.6 GHz and the Digital Dividend bands (700 or 800 MHz depending on region). In the USA, LTE deployments are typically in 700 MHz and existing AWS (1.7/2.1 GHz) spectrum. There is strong demand in Europe, Asia and elsewhere to access new Digital Dividend spectrum for extended geographical coverage and improved in-building performance. Commercial LTE800 services have been launched initially to target rural broadband needs. The main capacity band in most regions is 2.6 GHz. There is high interest in using re-farmed 2G spectrum for LTE, especially 1800 MHz, and in a few cases 900 MHz, as most regulators now adopt a

technology-neutral approach. Initial LTE FDD deployments in Japan use 800/850 MHz, 1.5 GHz, 1.7 GHz and 2.1 GHz (operator-dependant). Design targets for first LTE deployments include:

Instantaneous downlink peak data rate of at least 100 Mb/s within 20 MHz allocation (5 bps/Hz)

Instantaneous uplink peak data rate of 50 Mb/s (2.5 bps/Hz within a 20MHz uplink allocation)

Downlink: average user throughput per MHz, 3 to 4 times Release 6 HSDPA

Uplink: average user throughput per MHz, 2-3 times Release 6 Enhanced Uplink

E-UTRAN optimized for low mobile speed: 0-15 km/h. Higher mobile speed between 15-120 km/h should be supported with high performance. Mobility across the cellular network shall be maintained at speeds 120 km/h-350 km/h (or even up to 500 km/h depending on the frequency band)

Spectrum flexibility: scalable to operate in 1.4, 3, 5, 10, 15 and 20 MHz allocations: uplink and downlink…paired and unpaired

Co-existence with GERAN/3G on adjacent channels; with other operators on adjacent channels; overlapping or adjacent spectrum at country borders; handover with UTRAN & GERAN

LTE radio network products incorporate several features to simplify building and management of next-generation networks. Plug-and-play, self-configuration and self-optimization simplify and reduce network rollout and management cost. LTE is being deployed alongside simplified, IP-based core and transport networks that are easier to build, maintain and introduce services on. The 3GPP core network has also undergone System Architecture Evolution, optimized for packet mode and the IP-Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) to support all access technologies, including fixed access. This allows:

Improvements in latency, capacity, throughput Simplification of the core network, and

optimization for IP traffic, services, and growth Simplified support and handover to non-3GPP

access technologies

The result is the evolved packet system consisting of the core network part, the evolved packet core (EPC) and the radio network - evolved UTRAN (E-UTRAN), i.e. LTE. EPS is standardized in 3GPP Release 8.

July 11, 2012


LTE TDD Systems

Most LTE deployments use paired spectrum (FDD). The LTE TDD mode for unpaired spectrum is complementary and the perfect choice for providing high speed mobile broadband access in unpaired spectrum. LTE TDD is gaining market traction globally, providing a future-proof evolutionary path for TD-SCDMA, another 3GPP standard, as widely deployed in China. LTE TDD is an integral part of the 3GPP standards implementing a maximum of commonalities with LTE FDD and offering comparable performance characteristics and similar high spectral efficiency. Within globally assigned IMT bands for mobile communication, significant spectrum resources are suitable for LTE TDD. The largest contiguous bands are at 2.3 GHz (100 MHz) and within the 2.6 GHz band (50 MHz according to the CEPT band plan). There are also deployments in 3.5 GHz spectrum. Due to the demand for radio technologies for unpaired bands and based on the commonalities stated above, LTE TDD can exploit global economies of scale similar to LTE FDD, with a short time to market, and is a globally accepted technology, also providing an excellent evolution path for WiMAX™ operators. LTE TDD operator commitments, system maturity and eco-system are confirmed in this report.

LTE Category 4

LTE Category 4, providing 150Mbps peak downlink, is the next LTE evolution step. Solutions are available from vendors. The first LTE Category 4 compatible devices are expected in the market by end 2012.

LTE-Advanced Systems

LTE FDD and LTE TDD have a clear evolution towards LTE-Advanced which includes many features originally considered for the future ITU IMT-Advanced system. In October 2010 the ITU officially designated LTE-Advanced as an IMT-Advanced (4G) technology. IMT-Advanced provides a global platform on which to build the next-generations of interactive mobile services that will provide faster data access, enhanced roaming capabilities, unified messaging and broadband multimedia. LTE-Advanced test systems are operating or planned around the world. NTT DoCoMo is undertaking field experiments of LTE-Advanced in Yokosuka and Sagamihara and

confirmed the performance of LTE-Advanced using simulators in its R & D center, achieving transmission data rates of approximately 1 Gbps on the downlink and 200 Mbps on the uplink. SK Telecom plans to launch an LTE Advanced network in 2013. Other operators have announced plans to deploy LTE-A in a similar timeframe including AT&T Mobility, Clearwire, Dish Network, and Sprint.

Ericsson demonstrated LTE-Advanced to the Swedish Post and Telecom Agency in June 2011 and elsewhere. Nokia Siemens Networks demonstrated LTE-Advanced at CommunicAsia 2011. Many more demonstrations were shown at MWC2012.

3GPP published Release 10 of the standard in March 2011 and froze the features set for LTE-Advanced. Completion of Release 10 is the final step in the four year process to ensure that the 3GPP radio interface will meet the formal requirements of IMT-Advanced. As is the case with current work on HSPA Evolution (HSPA+), LTE work will continue beyond the current Release. It is a well proven method in 3GPP that work is allowed to carry on, but is punctuated by a series of Releases, allowing the industry to make products and plan services from that point on. 3GPP Release 11 will be completed in 2H 2012.

July 11, 2012


LTE networks, developments global round-up

Americas USA On September 21, 2010 regional carrier MetroPCS became the first operator in the USA to launch LTE. MetroPCS offered the world’s first commercially available LTE handset, the Samsung Craft™. Service was launched in Las Vegas, extended to Dallas/Forth Worth, Detroit, Boston, Sacramento and New York. Samsung SCH-R900/Craft was also the first multi-mode CDMA-LTE handset. LTE network rollouts continue in other MetroPCS markets. MetroPCS had 500,000 LTE subscriptions at end Q1 2012. Verizon Wireless launched its commercial LTE system in 700 MHz (Band 13) spectrum on December 5, 2010. The LTE network currently covers more than two-thirds of the US population in 304 markets (June 21, 2012) and by end 2012 will cover 260 million people in over 400 markets. Verizon expects coverage to match its existing 3G network by 2013. Through its “LTE in Rural America” program Verizon has worked with partners to collaboratively build and operate an LTE network that covers over 2.6 million people in rural communities over 82,000 square miles. The list of “LTE in Rural America” participants includes:

Appalachian Wireless – Kentucky

Bluegrass Cellular - Kentucky

Cellcom - Wisconsin

Chariton Valley – Missouri

Chat Mobility - Iowa

Clear Stream - North Carolina

Convergence Technologies – Indiana

Copper Valley Telecom - Alaska

Cross Telephone - Oklahoma

Custer Telephone Cooperative – Idaho

Matanuska Telephone Association - Alaska

NorthwestCell – Missouri

Pioneer Cellular – Oklahoma

Sagebrush Cellular (Nemont) – Dakota, Montana

S and R Communications - Indiana

Strata Networks – Utah

Thumb Cellular - Michigan

Pioneer Cellular launched commercial LTE service on April 30, 2012. Cellcom, a rural carrier for Wisconsin and Michigan, launched commercial LTE service on April 30, 2012 initially in Green Bay, Sturgeon Bay, Appleton, Oshkosh, Wausau, Oconto and Marinette Counties. AT&T Mobility launched commercial LTE service on September 18, 2011 in 700 MHz (Band 17) in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio. LTE service is available in 47 markets (July 9, 2012) and the company expects to complete its national LTE network build by end 2013. T-Mobile USA was the subject of a takeover bid from AT&T. However on December 19, 2011 AT&T announced that “after a thorough review of options it has agreed with Deutsche Telekom AG to end its bid to acquire T-Mobile USA”. It is understood T-Mobile USA will receive packages of AT&T’s AWS spectrum holdings as part of the break up terms. T-Mobile USA plans commercial launch of its own LTE network in 2013. T-Mobile announced plans for a spectrum-swapping deal with Leap Wireless to enhance its AWS holdings in 4 states (Alabama, Illinois, Missouri, Minnesota); the proposal is subject to FCC approval. Agri-Valley Broadband plans to use LTE for a regional rural deployment in 700 MHz spectrum, and has selected its infrastructure partner. The company plans to deploy LTE in up to 40 counties in Michigan. Aircell aims to use LTE to boost its in-flight network capacity if sufficient spectrum is obtained. Bay Area Regional Interoperable Communications System (BayRICS) vision was established by the 10 Bay Area Counties and 3 core cities, San Francisco, Oakland, and San Jose in 2006 through the creation of a strategic plan with the goal of providing voice and data interoperability throughout the Bay Area region. BayRICS is a state of the art communications system-of-systems. Bay Area Wireless Enhanced Broadband (BayWEB) is the broadband component of BayRICS which has acquired 700 MHz in which an LTE-based public safety system is intended to be deployed. In April 2011, the first public-safety LTE pilot network in the San Francisco Bay Area was tested. These tests were commissioned by the East

July 11, 2012


Bay Communications System Authority, which oversaw the pilot LTE network deployment. BendBroadband announced on May 17, 2012 that the company had upgraded its network, making it the first carrier in Central Oregon to offer commercial LTE service. BendBroadband will be shutting down its HSPA+ wireless network at end June 2012 and will only be offering the LTE service. C Spire Wireless holds 700 MHz Band 12 spectrum

for most of Mississippi, Tennessee and Alabama. On March 8, 2012 the company confirmed plans to invest $60 million and rollout beginning September 2012 in 20 Mississippi markets covering 2,700 square miles, a population of 1.2 million, enabled by over 360 sites. The network supplier name was given in July 2012. CenturyLink plans to deploy LTE in 700 MHz.

Enhanced Telecommunications Corporation (ETC) is deploying an LTE network in Indiana. Leap Wireless' Cricket subsidiary launched commercial LTE service on December 21, 2011 in Tucson in AWS spectrum. Leap Wireless signed a 5-year wholesale agreement with Clearwire for capacity off-load as a supplement to Cricket's LTE network. CDMA operator Alaska Communications is deploying an LTE network targeting launch end 2012. Clearwire Corp. requested 3GPP to standardize LTE TDD for 2496 – 2690 MHz operation (Band 41) and released results of trials carried out on LTE TDD and FDD systems in Phoenix, Arizona. Clearwire is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative, and in August 2011 committed to deploy an LTE overlay, incorporating key features of LTE-Advanced. The LTE TDD mode is expected to be deployed in 20 MHz of spectrum. Clearwire announced plans to have 5,000 LTE TDD sites operating by June 2013, at which time VoLTE will also be supported. LTE services will begin in early 2013 in 31 markets. Sprint plans to launch its commercial LTE FDD service on July 15, 2012 in existing 1900 MHz spectrum in 5 cities, and will also use 800 MHz (ESMR spectrum) in 2012 by moving its iDEN customers onto its CDMA push-to-talk service. Sprint will have 250 million LTE pops coverage by end 2013

and continue fill in of smaller markets with LTE from early 2014. Sprint said it won’t sell WiMax™ service after 2012 and will deploy LTE-Advanced technology in 800 MHz by 1H 2013 using 3GPP Release 10 in 10x10 configuration. As part of a $32.1 million stimulus grant, Commnet Wireless, LLC will develop and operate an LTE network in the Navajo Nation. The grant, plus partial matching funds, will provide broadband infrastructure access to the Navajo Nation across Arizona, New Mexico and Utah, enabling fixed and mobile service for over 30,000 households (c. 135,000 people) and 1,000 businesses in 15 of the largest communities in the Navajo Nation, including Window Rock, Shiprock, Kayenta, Chinle, and Tuba City. The project will also provide high-capacity connectivity on the combined middle-mile backbone to 49 more tribal communities. Satellite TV provider Dish Network applied to the FCC in August 2011 for approval to deploy LTE-Advanced in S-band Mobile Satellite Services (MSS) spectrum bought from TerreStar, added to spectrum acquired from the purchase of satellite company DBSD North America, for a total of 40 MHz (2000-2020 MHz and 2180-2200 MHz). In March 2012 the FCC issued a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to establish rules for stand-alone terrestrial services using 2 GHz MSS spectrum. If the waiver is allowed, LTE service launch is anticipated around 2016 Greenfield operator Lightsquared is planning to deploy the first US wholesale-only LTE network, and selected its infrastructure supplier for deployment using 1.4 to 1.6 GHz, mostly (46 MHz) in L-Band. However the company must work through major regulatory obstacles because the FCC ruled that its proposed operating frequency interferes with GPS and aircraft flight safety systems. Lightsquared announced plans in February 2012 to lay off almost half of its employees, and filed for bankruptcy in May 2012 in order to try to continue operations. Rural CDMA operator Mosaic Telecom (NW Wisconsin) holds 700 MHz and AWS spectrum and launched commercial LTE service in July 2011. NetAmerica Alliance LLC is an initiative aiming to

help bring LTE mobile broadband services to 700 MHz and AWS spectrum holders for consumers and businesses in smaller markets and rural areas.

July 11, 2012


NetAmerica joins forces with rural independent license holders deploying new converged 4G mobile/fixed networks and provide them with business and network services including combined buying power, nationwide branding, 24x7 network monitoring, core networking elements, apps development and other key services. www.netAmericaAlliance.com Network operators Etex Telephone Cooperative, Panhandle Telephone Cooperative, Peoples Telephone Cooperative, and S&T Telephone Cooperative/Communications have committed to LTE network deployments and joined NetAmerica Alliance. On October 26, 2011, NetAmerica Alliance announced a live LTE pilot network. NetAmerica Alliance members are using the pilot network to develop, test and refine operating methodologies prior to turn-up of commercial service. Peoples Telephone Cooperative launched commercial LTE service in rural Texas on February 14, 2012 having replaced its WiMax™ offer with LTE in 700 MHz. The initial service phase moved over 200 residential users from WiMax™ to LTE in Eastern Texas. Panhandle (PTCI) owns spectrum covering six counties comprised of more than 45,000 people, nearly 20,000 households and covers over 7,500 square miles. PTCI launched commercial LTE service at end March 2012, initially in rural Oklahoma; the network consists of 45 towers covering 5,000 square miles and 30,000 population covered. Rural regional carrier Sprocket Wireless (brand of Cross Wireless), also in Oklahoma, has announced plans to deploy an LTE network. O2 Secure Wireless, an emerging Internet communications company, has announced it has embarked on phase one of its LTE network strategy. The company plans to provide coverage to over 500,000 customers in under-served or un-served markets in Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi, Alabama, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Public Service Wireless is deploying a 700 MHz LTE network in central and south-west Georgia. South Georgia Regional Information Technology Authority is deploying a 700MHz LTE system in South Georgia

WiMAX™ operator SpeedConnect is deploying infrastructure in Michigan which includes LTE and WiMAX™ technologies. Texas Energy Network (TEN) is deploying an LTE network, initially targeting the oil and gas industries beginning with the Eagle Ford Shale region. United Wireless is upgrading its CDMA infrastructure and adding LTE to its network US Cellular in partnership with King Street Wireless commercially launched 700 MHz LTE service on March 22, 2012 in selected cities in Iowa, Maine, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Texas and Wisconsin. In 2H 2012 LTE coverage will expand to cover more cities in Illinois, Maryland, Missouri, New Hampshire, Oregon, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Washington and West Virginia; more cities will follow. By end 2012, 50% of its customers will be covered by LTE. The first user devices include the Samsung Galaxy Tab 10.1 and the Galaxy S Aviator. US Cellular says that the Samsung 4G LTE Mobile Hotspot will join their LTE device line up in late Spring, along with an LTE dongle and more smartphones later in 2012. VTel Wireless is deploying an LTE network in rural

Vermont. Estimated completion date is Q4 2012. Regional operator West Central Wireless is deploying an LTE network in Texas and plans to launch commercial service in late 2012. US regional operator Penasco Valley Telecommunications (PVT) is deploying an LTE

network in the states of New Mexico and Texas, to operate under the Fuego Wireless brand. On January 25, 2011 the FCC mandated LTE for first responders (public safety communications). The Order and FNPRM requires all 700 MHz public safety mobile broadband networks to use a common air interface, specifically LTE, to support roaming and interoperable communications. Mandating of a single technology by the FCC is unprecedented. The City of Charlotte Council awarded a contract in October 2011 for an LTE Public Safety Network in this dedicated Public Safety 700 MHz band.

http://www.netamericaalliance.com/

July 11, 2012


On April 26, 2012 two key members of the House Energy and Commerce Committee's Subcommittee on Communications and Technology - Congressman Cliff Stearns and Congresswoman Doris Matsui, introduced a bill (H.R 4817) calling for re-purposing and pairing of the 1755-1850 MHz band with the internationally harmonized 2155 – 2180 MHz band (FCC's AWS-3). H.R. 4817 would require pairing and auction within three years of February 22, 2012. The President would be required to clear 1755-1780 MHz within 5 years unless it can be shown that relocation of a particular government assignment is not possible "without jeopardizing essential military capability." If H.R. 4817 is enacted and the paired 50 MHz block is auctioned and put into use in the near term, it would be a big step toward lessening the "spectrum crunch". PUBLIC SAFETY – Band 14 (788-798/758-768 MHz) Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) is trialling LTE in band 14. Miami-Dade police officers are also trialling LTE in band 14. The Iowa Statewide Interoperable Communications System Board (ISICSB) issued a request for proposals (RFP) for industry-funded, LTE public safety broadband network proof-of-concept demonstrations (LTE PSBND), which will be used to educate public safety and officials at the federal, state, county, local, and tribal levels about LTE statewide public safety wireless communications systems. Proposals were requested by June 19, with Iowa state planning to award a contract running from July 1, 2012 until June 30, 2013. (GovWin blog) Canada

Rogers Wireless launched Canada’s first commercial LTE service on July 7, 2011 in Ottawa. LTE coverage extends to 35% of the population (July 2012). By end 2012 Rogers says LTE will cover 20 million people. Bell Mobility launched commercial LTE services in Toronto, Mississauga, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo and Guelph on September 14, 2011. Coverage was extended to Halifax, Dartmouth and Belleville by

November 1, 2011. Customers fallback to DC-HSPA+ or HSPA+ outside LTE coverage. TELUS launched commercial LTE service on February 10, 2012 in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area, Kitchener, Waterloo, Hamilton, Guelph, Belleville, Ottawa, Montreal, Québec City, Halifax and Yellowknife, planning coverage for 25 million pops by end 2012. MTS Allstream is deploying a commercial LTE

network, targeting launch in 2012 in Manitoba. Sasktel announced phase 1 of its LTE deployment will begin in the fall of 2012 to Regina and Saskatoon and surrounding areas. LTE will be deployed to other urban and rural areas from 2013 based on demand. The company will deploy VoLTE in 2013. Wind Mobile confirmed an LTE trial in February 2011 Videotron plans to deploy LTE. Rural WiMAX™ operator Xplornet Communications announced on December 8, 2011 successful completion of LTE TDD testing in the 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz bands. The trials demonstrated a seamless LTE TDD option over existing WiMAX infrastructure, offering a smooth migration path (from WiMAX) to LTE TDD. The trial in 3.5 GHz used the same band that Xplornet uses for current (WiMAX) deployments. The 2.6 GHz trial was enabled by a development license from regulator Industry Canada. Industry Canada is planning to auction 700 MHz

(aligning with US band plan) and 2.6 GHz in 2012. Argentina Telefonica completed lab trials of LTE in March 2010.A field trial undertaken mid-November to mid-December 2010 in Buenos Aires claimed to be the first in AWS spectrum in Central and South America. Personal tested LTE in Puerto Madero (June 2010), and in December 2010 announced a trial in Cordoba. Regulator SECOM is planning to allocate 850 MHz and 1900 MHz spectrum which was returned by Movistar when parent Telefonica bought some of the assets of former operator Movicom from Bell South.

July 11, 2012


Bahamas BTC is deploying a commercial LTE network as an

addition to the GSM/EDGE and HSPA network. Regulator URCA has launched a consultation on policy for new spectrum bands, including 700 MHz. Comments were required by February 20, 2012. Belize BTL (DigiCell) is deploying an LTE network upgrade in 2012. Bolivia

Entel Movil is trialling LTE in La Paz. Brazil

Sky Brasil Servicos commercially launched LTE TDD services (2.6 GHz - Band 38) on December 13, 2011 in Brasilia. More cities will be covered in 2012. Oi has been trialling LTE trial since mid-June 2011 together with four system vendors for tests in laboratory conditions and in live networks in various cities. Testing is reported to include using 1800 MHz spectrum and the company has confirmed it may deploy LTE1800 subject to the conditions of the upcoming 2.6 GHz spectrum auction. TIM Brasil has stressed the importance of early release of 700 MHz for LTE. Vivo has been trialling LTE and plans to deploy a commercial network. Claro has been testing LTE in 2.6 GHz since Q4 2011 The Sao Paulo military police force is testing LTE in 700 MHz, and is trialling with 5 base stations. The Brazil Army is testing LTE in 700MHz for public

security solutions. The network was installed in September 2011 at two sites in Brasilia covering Esplanada dos Ministérios, and Communications Center and the Army Electronic Warfare (CCOMGEX) Independent technology institution CPqD has tested LTE in 450 MHz reportedly in Campinas with an

official attending from the Ministry of Communications. Tests were also made in 2.6 GHz. Algar Telecom (CTBC) is conducting LTE trials in 850 MHz and 1800 MHz. Regulatory approval is needed for commercial services in these frequencies. Regulator Anatel auctioned 15 lots of frequency sub-bands on December 6, 2011 raising USD 132.7 million. 39 lots were not auctioned, including 29 designated for WiMAX™. TIM, Oi and Sercomtel bought spectrum in the 1800 MHz band. Claro bought spectrum in the 800 MHz band. The auction of 2.6 GHz LTE spectrum was concluded on June 12, 2012 with the winners being Vivo (2 x 20 MHz MHz), Claro (2 x 20 MHz), TIM (2 x 10 MHz) and Oi (2 x 10 MHz). As no separate bids for 450 MHz spectrum were made, Anatel bundled the unsold channels with the new 2.6 GHz concessions. Commercial LTE services are required to be launched in 2013. The auction included spectrum suitable for TDD deployments, acquired by Sky Brasil Servicos and Sunrise Telecomunicacoes, the latter focuses in Sao Paulo state. 3.5 GHz spectrum is expected to be auctioned in 2012. Discussions are planned from 2H 2012 on use of 700 MHz once digital TV switchover is completed (2016). According to the ITU, Brazil needs 980 MHz by 2015 to keep up with demand, and by 2012, 764 MHz will have been offered. Chile Entel PCS completed an LTE trial at the Universidad de Chile. Movistar has publicly demonstrated LTE. Claro has also been trialling LTE. Regulator Subtel released bidding documents for 2.6 GHz licences on December 16, 2011. Proposals were received from Movistar, Claro and Entel and are being evaluated. Three 20 MHz blocks will be offered. It is understand there is no regulatory barrier to operators deploying LTE in current mobile spectrum. Colombia Une-EPM is deploying an LTE2600 network and commercially launched LTE services in Bogotá and

July 11, 2012


Medellín on June 14, 2012. The company intends to provide 90% population coverage by end 2012. The Ministry of ICT (MinTIC) via Resolution 3263 dated December 29, 2011 invited expressions of interest to participate in an auction for spectrum in Band IV (AWS), Band II (PCS1900) and Band VII (2.6 GHz) for LTE network deployments. The deadline for comments was extended to April 16, 2012. The auction is scheduled to start on August 8, 2012. 10 companies have expressed interest in participating in the auction, including local operators as well as foreign operators. Tigo is interested to participate in the auction and has announced plans to deploy a commercial LTE network. Nextel and Avantel are

amongst the new players expressing interest in participating in the auctions. Costa Rica

Claro & ICE are considering deploying LTE in 2012. Dominican Republic

Orange Dominicana trialled LTE from April 2011 and launched commercial service in Santo Domingo on July 9, 2012. The smallest of the Dominican internet providers, Tricom, has signed an infrastructure supply contract for deployment of an LTE network. Ecuador The Telecommunication and Information Society Ministry (MINTEL) announced the National Broadband Plan is to be strengthened to assist development of high speed Internet access to underserved areas. New measures include a resolution to implement LTE in all regions. Considering the benefits of the new mobile technologies, the Telecommunication and Information Society Ministry (MINTEL) and the National Secretary of Telecommunications (SENATEL) are organizing various events to demonstrate new mobile technologies like LTE, in order to increase the technological and social development. The government seeks to publicize the benefits of the new mobile technologies to the society in general.

CONATEL has advised GSA about several LTE-focused events and trials held or planned in Ecuador:

May 2012 – Quito

Seminar, live demos of HSPA+ (1900/2100 MHz) and LTE (2.6 GHz) technologies

August 17-18, 2011 - Quito Seminar, LTE demo in 2.6 GHz band

October 17, 2011 - Guayaquil Seminar, LTE demo in AWS (1700/2100 MHz) band

Guatemala

Regulator SIT said bands suitable for LTE include 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, AWS, and 2.1 GHz. Jamaica Claro is reported to be deploying an LTE system. Digicel has agreed to acquire the company from

America Movil. Further announcements are awaited. Mexico Telefónica and Telcel have conducted tests of LTE. Telcel is preparing for commercial launch to consumers in 2012. Telefónica plans to launch LTE by 2013 and has entered into a network sharing agreement with Iusacell.

The government plans to auction new spectrum in 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz. MVS Comunicaciones announced a US$ 1 billion investment in LTE as part of a consortium; requires regulatory approval. A wholesale model is proposed. Panama Cable and Wireless Panama is planning to deploy an LTE network and has identified a network partner. Paraguay Vox (Copaco) plans to deploy a commercial LTE network, targeting launch by August 2012.

July 11, 2012


Peru Telefonica Movistar has been trialling LTE.

Ministerio de Transporte y Comunicaciones del Perú published a consultation on use of 700 MHz and AWS spectrum for comments by March 31, 2011. Puerto Rico AT&T Puerto Rico launched commercial LTE

services in 700 MHz on November 20, 2011 in San Juan and continues to expand coverage. Claro launched limited LTE services in 700 MHz on

Nov 24, 2011. CDMA operator Open Mobile launched its 700 MHz commercial LTE service on April 19, 2012. Uruguay Antel launched commercial LTE services on

December 13, 3011 in AWS spectrum in Montevideo and Punta del Este. Antel has requested access to 700 MHz for LTE and awaits the regulator’s decision.

Claro and Movistar have expressed interest in

bidding for new spectrum for LTE. Wireless broadband company Dedicado is planning to invest US$ 5 million in deployment of “4Motion” network using WiMAX and LTE in 3.5 GHz.

In May 2012 the government passed a Decree governing DTT implementation. Digital broadcasting will start within 12 months and the analog switch off will take place on November 21, 2015. Venezuela Regulator Conatel has issued an invitation for the allocation of 35 MHz paired spectrum in various bands within the range 1710 – 2170 MHz. Applications were required by June 6, 2012 and were made by incumbents Movilnet, Movistar and Digitel.

Movistar has been testing LTE in the country and plans to introduce LTE by end 21012. Digitel has requested additional spectrum in the 1800 MHz band to support the rollout of LTE (LTE1800).

WiMAX™ operator Movilmax has a nationwide license with 48 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum and announced the company is migrating to LTE. Asia Pacific and Oceania Australia All three mobile operators have confirmed they are deploying LTE networks using 1800 MHz (LTE1800). Telstra commercially launched LTE service (LTE1800) on September 27, 2011 in capital city CBDs (central business districts) and more than 30 regional and metropolitan centers. The NextG network upgrade uses Telstra’s existing 1800 MHz spectrum refarmed to deliver LTE to areas where traffic demand is most concentrated and is integrated with Telstra’s existing HSPA+ service in the 850MHz band. Telstra offers dual mode LTE/HSPA+ mobile broadband devices for seamless operation across 1800 MHz and 850 MHz. Telstra is trialling IMS but says it will not rush into voice until coverage is ubiquitous on the LTE layer. In May 2012 Telstra announced its 1,000th LTE base station had been activated and confirmed at least 300,000 customers are using LTE-capable devices on its network. Optus is running an LTE1800 trial for over 1,000 users in Newcastle and the Hunter Valley areas of New South Wales ahead of commercial service capital city launch (Sydney, Melbourne, Perth) from 2H 2012. Optus announced on February 20, 2012 its conditional agreement to purchase Vivid Wireless which has subsequently been completed - giving Optus access to 98 MHz of 2.3 GHz spectrum to support its planned LTE TDD national rollout in 2013. Vivid Wireless trialled LTE TDD in Sydney. In May 2012 Optus and Vodafone announced a major site sharing roaming deal, subject to ACCC approval. Vodafone Hutchison Australia (VHA) confirmed

results of its LTE1800 trial in Q4 2010 in Newcastle, NSW using 10 MHz of 1800 MHz. Upgrading of the network (around 5,800 2G and 3G base station sites) is underway and commercial LTE services are anticipated to start in 2013. In September 2011 VHA announced that an agreement between the company and the Australasian Railway Association, which holds licenses for 1800 MHz spectrum, to create

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contiguous blocks of spectrum in NSW, Victoria and South Australia, had been approved by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA). NBN Co was established to design, build and operate the national broadband network and is deploying 2.3GHz LTE TDD for fixed-wireless broadband to serve rural Australia with download speeds of up to 12 Mbps and upload speeds reaching 1 Mbps, ensuring a significant improvement on existing services. NBN Co launched LTE TDD commercial

wholesale services to customers on 2 April, 2012. There are currently 15 service providers who are accredited to provide services over the network and NBN Co is installing services for them across four locations in Australia, expanding to a national footprint covering 4% of the population by the end of 2015. This locks in with the same product set being offered over fibre and satellite to make the total picture of 100% population coverage. Retail price packages are available from *SkyMesh, iiNet, and Activ8Me (source: NBN Co communication to GSA) EnergyAustralia’s Ausgrid trialled an LTE platform at 15 sites in 2011, with the intent to migrate to a full LTE network. EnergyAustralia was chosen by the Government to lead the Smart Grid, Smart City demonstration project to test Australia’s first fully integrated, commercial-scale smart grid. WiMAX™ operator BigAir manages one of the

largest metropolitan fixed wireless networks in Australia and has confirmed plans to deploy LTE for commercial service in 2012-2013 timeframe. The planned auction by ACMA of digital dividend spectrum has been postponed to April 2013. The spectrum can be used from January 1, 2015. The auction will also include 2.6 GHz spectrum. ACMA is consulting on the future use of 1800 MHz spectrum. Comments are required by July 27, 2012. China China Mobile is building its TD-SCDMA network so that sites and other elements are reusable for LTE TDD. China Mobile ran a pilot of LTE TDD technology until September 2011 using 850 base stations in 6 cities in Phase 1 working with several infrastructure, devices and chipset vendors. This followed a large-scale showcase trial network during the 2010 World

Expo in Shanghai. China Mobile has now entered the second phase of trials including setting up trial networks in three new cities, Beijing, Tianjin and Qingda. China Mobile plans to have 20,000 LTE TDD base sites covering 500 million people by end 2012, increasing to 200,000 by end 2013. Commercial service launch is anticipated in 2013-2014. China Mobile has 1.9 GHz, 2.0 GHz, 2.3 GHz and 2.6 GHz bands (classified as F, A, E and D bands). Trials use the D and F bands. China Mobile announced it will introduce 10 LTE TDD smartphone models during 1H 2013, and intends to have more than 100 products launched by 2014. China Telecom plans to launch an LTE service,

expected in 2012, which will be integrated with CDMA systems in 17 provinces. LTE deployment timescales of China Unicom are not known to GSA at this time. In Hong Kong SAR, 2 x 15 MHz blocks of 2.6 GHz spectrum were obtained via auction each by China Mobile HK (Peoples Phone), Genius Brand (Hutchison Telecom/PCCW JV) and CSL Limited.

On November 25, 2010 CSL Limited commercially launched its combined LTE2600/1800/DC-HSPA+ network for corporate services, extended to all customers on May 16, 2011. LTE1800 sites have been added incrementally. Although the first LTE1800 site was on air at the initial launch, now LTE1800 is more widely available in several in-building locations and in general commercial use (shown in this report as from November 2011 as advised by CSL). Genius Brand is deploying a city wide LTE network of approximately 2,000 base stations on which Hutchison and PCCW operate their respective commercial LTE services. PCCW commercially launched LTE service on April 25, 2012. Its Mobile (+Wi-Fi) broadband service “Netvigator Everywhere” is supported by PCCW’s territory-wide 42Mbps DC-HSPA+ service integrated with the company’s 100 Mbps Wi-Fi (almost 10,000 hotspots) in an auto-connect/ traffic off-load arrangement. Hutchison 3 HK launched its commercial LTE FDD service on May 2, 2012. 3HK said it will build a combined FDD and TDD network, using its newly-acquired TDD spectrum.

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SmarTone is deploying LTE1800, planning commercial launch in Q4 2012. SmarTone bought 2 x 5 MHz of 850 MHz spectrum in March 2011 for HSPA+ saying in future it could also be used for LTE. On February 6, 2012 regulator OFCA (ex-OFTA) announced the auction results after 6 bidding rounds for 90 MHz of 2.3 GHz spectrum for BWA services, divided into 3 x 30 MHz blocks. 30 MHz blocks were won each by Hutchison Telephone Company Limited, China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited, and new entrant 21 ViaNet Group Limited. China Mobile HK launched commercial LTE FDD services in 2.6 GHz on April 25, 2012 and is evolving the network to also support LTE TDD this year. The world’s first bi-directional handover between LTE FDD and TDD on a live network was announced by Ericsson and China Mobile HK on June 20, 2012. On December 29, 2011 OFCA launched a consultation on auctioning spectrum in the 2.6GHz range, offering five blocks of 2 x 5 MHz, by auction which would be held in Q1 2013 at the earliest. A total of 50 MHz in the 2515 – 2540 MHz and 2635 – 2660 MHz bands will be available for assignment. OFCA has since confirmed plans for the auction in Q1 2013. Guam IT&E is deploying an LTE network.

India The 2.3 GHz BWA auction began with 11 companies bidding for 2 blocks in each of the 22 circles. The government had earlier allocated one 20 MHz unpaired spectrum block each to MTNL and BSNL. Tikona Digital won spectrum in 5 circles. Qualcomm and Bharti Airtel won 4 circles each. Qualcomm gained spectrum in the key circles of Delhi, Mumbai, Haryana and Kerala, announced Global Holding Corporation and Tulip Telecom as initial shareholders for its LTE venture for network deployment, and has been undertaking trials. In May 2012 it was announced that Bharti Airtel will buy 49% of the Qualcomm license, comprising the 26% owned by Global Holding Corporation and Tulip Telecom, plus a further 23% of the company (according to reports, as a first step to taking full ownership in 2014). Bharti has BWA licenses in four other circles - Kolkata,

Karnataka, Punjab and Maharashtra. Bharti Airtel is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative. On April 10, 2012 Bharti Airtel commercially launched India’s

first LTE service (TDD) in Kolkata. Commercial LTE service opened in Bangalore on May 7, 2012. Aircel, winning BWA spectrum in 8 circles, has been trialling LTE TDD. On November 30, 2010 Reliance Industries showcased results from its field trial of LTE TDD. BSNL and MTNL are studying introducing LTE TDD possibly in addition to current WiMAX deployments. BSNL had acquired BWA spectrum licenses in the 2.6 GHz band in 22 circles for $1.6 billion. Infotel Broadband was the only pan-India winner, later bought by Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL). RIL is expected to commercially launch LTE TDD in 2012. Tikona Digital has committed to deploy LTE TDD. Regulator TRAI is consulting on 700 MHz spectrum and IMT-Advanced (incl. LTE-Advanced) systems. Indonesia Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat have been

trialling LTE technology and plan to deploy LTE. Indosat trialled LTE in 2.6 GHz in 2010 and in October 2011 announced completion of a trial of LTE1800 in 10 MHz bandwidth in Surabaya and Denpasar in Bali. Indosat plans to deploy LTE in re-farmed 1800 MHz spectrum. CDMA operator Bakrie Telecom plans to introduce

LTE in future, and may trial LTE in 2012. Regulator SDPPI is consulting on the use of 2300 – 2360 MHz spectrum (part of Band 40) for BWA which could lead to licenses being awarded in August 2012. Japan NTT DoCoMo launched Japan’s first commercial LTE system on December 24, 2010 in 2.1 GHz under the “Xi™” brand in the Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka areas. DoCoMo is aiming to cover 98% of the population with LTE by March 2015 and is targeting 30 million LTE subscriptions by this date. NTT DoCoMo announced that 3 million LTE subscribers was reached on June 8 2012.

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KDDI is deploying LTE and will continue to operate its 800 MHz CDMA network for voice traffic. KDDI has 20 MHz of spectrum for LTE and plans to commercially launch LTE in 2012 using 800/1500 MHz spectrum subject to frequency re-arrangements being completed, targeting mobile broadband coverage for 96.5% of the country by March 2015. eMobile launched its commercial LTE service in 1.7 GHz spectrum on March 15, 2012. Coverage is scheduled to cover 99% of the population of major cities Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya by end June 2012 Softbank Mobile, a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative, commercially launched XGP/LTE TDD services on February 24, 2012 via its subsidiary Wireless City Planning which followed a pre-commercial pilot service starting on November 1, 2011. The coverage area includes Sapporo, Saitama, Chiba, Tokyo, Yokohama, Kawasaki, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe, Fukuoka, Fukuoka City, Kitakyushu City and today covers 30 cities. The first device offered was the "ULTRA WiFi 4G SoftBank 101SI” portable router. The first smartphones will be offered in September-October 2012. The LTE TDD network is deployed in 20 MHz of 2.5 GHz spectrum bought from Willcom (PHS operator) and has over 100,000 subscribers. LTE will be deployed using 2.1 GHz in a later phase. NTT DoCoMo, KDDI and eMobile were granted 700 MHz spectrum in June 2012 which will be used for LTE deployments, and can be brought into use from 2015 at the earliest; discussions about migration measures are needed with present users of the spectrum. Softbank recently acquired 900 MHz

spectrum, which will also be used for LTE. It is understood that 1800 MHz spectrum may be allocated for LTE services in Japan in future. Malaysia In February 2012 Maxis confirmed plans to rollout an

LTE network in the Klang Valley, Penang, Johor Bahru and other key areas over the next 5 years. Commercial launch is anticipated mid 2013. Celcom has trialled LTE in 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz.

DiGi plans to launch LTE in 2.6 GHz by 2013.

U Mobile announced on March 15, 2011 plans to launch a commercial LTE network in 2.6 GHz. Celcom Axiata and Maxis are reported to be in talks about 900 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum re-farming. WiMAX™ operator Packet One Networks (Malaysia)

Sdn. Bhd intends to upgrade its existing 2.3 GHz network with an LTE TDD overlay. P1 says it will focus on LTE TDD in 2013. P1 base stations are dual-mode WiMAX™ and LTE TDD capable. P1 says by end 2012 they will have 2,300 WiMAX™ sites, half of which will be LTE TDD ready. P1 expects to have built between 4,000 – 5,000 LTE TD sites by 2015. WiMAX™ operator Asiaspace has confirmed its plan to launch LTE TDD in 2.3 GHz before end 2012. Regulator MCMC has named nine recipients of 2.6 GHz spectrum, understood to be DiGi, Celcom Axiata, Maxis, U Mobile, WiMAX operators Asiaspace, P1, REDtone International, YTL Communications. The ninth is Puncak Semangat. An auction for formal allocations is forthcoming. A number of parties have enquired about access to 700 MHz, which MCMC is considering. MCMC is also consulting on re-farming 850/900/1800 MHz. Nepal Ncell approached the Nepal Telecom Authority in October 2010 for spectrum and a license for LTE operation. Shareholder TeliaSonera is keen to proceed if permission/spectrum are granted, for launch in 2012. GSA has been advised that discussions with NTA are continuing. New Zealand Telecom New Zealand showcased LTE in Auckland in 2011. On May 14, 2012 the company announced plans to launch a customer trial before end 2012. Vodafone New Zealand has trialled LTE and is committed to deployment. Kordia is considering an upgrade of its 2.3 GHz rural

mobile network to LTE. 700 MHz digital dividend spectrum is expected to be auctioned in 2012.

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Woosh is considering an upgrade of its 2.3 GHz rural mobile network to LTE. 700 MHz digital dividend spectrum is expected to be auctioned in 2012. Woosh is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative The Philippines Smart Communications announced on April 16, 2011 opening of limited commercial LTE service (extended beta testing phase) in Boracay and is rolling out in other areas. The company said its entire mobile network (13,000 base stations) is being upgraded to support LTE by mid-2012. Each site can be activated for LTE or HSPA+ operation depending market requirements. Globe Telecom has completed LTE trials; from January 2012 the company is converting all sites to support LTE for launch in 2H 2012. Piltel is understood to be seeking the remaining 3G license in the country to deploy LTE services. Bayan Telecommunications has indicated plans to deploy LTE in existing 1800 MHz spectrum. Singapore

M1 launched commercial LTE services in the financial district on June 21, 2011 in 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz. Nationwide coverage is planned in 2012. StarHub has completed LTE testing in 2.6 GHz and 1800 MHz. An LTE1800 network in refarmed 1800 MHz is being deployed for commercial launch in July 2012 starting in the Central Business District (CBD) and Changi Airport. StarHub plans to trial VoLTE by end 2012 depending on device availability. SingTel launched commercial LTE service on December 22, 2011 in 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum, priced for new subscribers at S$69.90/month. Existing Premium 21 customers can upgrade. The plan is limited initially to USB dongles which are provided at no charge. Initial service is in the Central Business District, planned to extend to high data usage regions. 80% coverage of Singapore is targeted by 2012, extending to island-wide by early 2013. An LTE service for smartphone users was introduced in June 2012. SingTel also trialled LTE overseas with carriers in which it holds stakes i.e.

SingTel Optus (Australia), Telkomsel (Indonesia), Globe Telecom (Philippines). SingTel announced the launch of LTE service for consumer smartphone users from 5 June 2012 for customers buying an LTE-enabled phone with a SingTel Flexi or iFlexi plan. The HTC One XL, LG Optimus LTE and Samsung Galaxy SII LTE are available. Regulator IDA plans to auction 1800 MHz, 2.3 GHz, and 2.6 GHz spectrum, according to a consultation paper. QMax Communications has been assigned channels in the 2.3 GHz band, and the 2.6 GHz band is shared between M1, PacketOne, SingTel Mobile and StarHub for which rights will expire on Jun. 30, 2015. The 1800 MHz spectrum is currently assigned to SingTel Mobile, StarHub Mobile, and M1, and will expire on March 31, 2017. IDA seeks to attract new market entrants. For 4G services in the 1800 MHz band, IDA plans to allocate 140 MHz i.e. 2 x 70 MHz paired for LTE FDD. For the 2.3 GHz band, 30 MHz will be allocated and will likely be for the deployment of LTE TDD. IDA plans to allocate 150MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum i.e. 2 x 60 MHz paired and 30 MHz unpaired. IDA stated that operators that successfully bid for at least 30 MHz of spectrum in the 2.3 GHz and 2.6 GHz bands will be required to provide nationwide 4G systems and coverage by June 30, 2016 - one year after existing licenses expire. South Korea LG U Plus launched commercial LTE service with 500 base stations on July 1, 2011 in Seoul and 2 other cities, using 10 MHz in Band 5 (850 MHz) spectrum. LG U Plus announced that nationwide coverage has been achieved. LTE services are now available nationwide in 84 cities, 80 counties, and 889 towns, along all highways, and in subways, airports and railway stations. Choi Taek-jin, VP, LG Uplus, told Yonhap News: “We are aiming to provide VoLTE service starting in October 2012 after completing the nationwide LTE network by March 2012.” SK Telecom launched commercial LTE service in Seoul on July 1, 2011 in10 MHz in Band 5 (850 MHz). The company brought forward it’s nationwide (84 cities) coverage date to April 1, 2012. SK Telecom started in December 2011 to install dual-mode femtocells with LTE and Wi-Fi which, according to the

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Small Cell Forum, are the first LTE femtocells on a commercial network. In May 2012 SK Telecom announced it is trialling multi-carrier LTE to allow combining of Band 5 (850 MHz) and 1800 MHz (Band 3) assets for LTE. SK Telecom won 20 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum in the recent auction. Commercial launch of multi-carrier LTE was launched on July 1, 2012, extending across all of Seoul by end 2012 and to 23 other major cities by early 2013. SK Telecom says this is the world's first commercialization of Multi Carrier. SK Telecom has confirmed it has gained 3.4 million subscribers and forecasts 7 million total by year end. SK Telecom has announced plans to offer commercial VoLTE service from September 2012. KT commercially launched LTE services in Seoul on January 3, 2012. LTE is deployed in re-farmed 1800 MHz (Band 3) spectrum (LTE1800). KT announced on April 23, 2012 that LTE coverage is available in 84 cities. The company said it could launch VoLTE service in October 2012. Regulator KCC conducted an auction of three

spectrum blocks in August 2011 in 800, 1800 MHz and 2.1 GHz bands. SK Telecom and KT were barred from bidding for 2.1 GHz spectrum. Winners gain immediate access to the new spectrum except for 800 MHz which will be allocated from July 2012. SK Telecom won 20 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum. KT won 10 MHz of 800 MHz spectrum. LG U Plus won 20 MHz in 2.1 GHz and will deploy LTE in this band. Sri Lanka Dialog Axiata announced live LTE trials from May 5,

2011 in Colombo Fort and the Colombo 2, 3, 4 and Narahenpita areas of the city. Dialog Axiata is seeking additional spectrum in 1800 MHz for deployment of a commercial LTE network. Mobitel announced on May 6, 2011 completion of an LTE trial, which achieved 96 Mbps downlink speed in 2.6 GHz. More trials are planned in other bands. The company uses the same infrastructure vendor for its commercial network deployment. Etisalat’s DC-HSPA+ network is reported as being “LTE ready”. Taiwan Chunghwa Telecom has been trialling LTE in 2.6 GHz and 700 MHz spectrum. The company has

completed LTE tests on the high-speed rail system in TDD and FDD modes using 2.6 GHz. FarEasTone and China Mobile are co-operating on an LTE TDD trial network in Taipei. The National Chiao Tung University conducted a trial of LTE TDD in 2010. Regulator NCC has suggested that LTE licenses may be issued by mid-2014. Frequencies for LTE look likely to be in the 700, 900, and 1800 MHz bands. Consultations are on-going with interested parties. APT recommendation in the 700MHz band (APT/AWF/REP-14, Sep 2010) is being followed. BWA operators Global Mobile, Tatung, FET and VMAX have technology-neutral licenses and can

apply to alter their plans to adopt different mobile technologies, including LTE. WiMAX™ operator Global Mobile has applied to the

government for approval to amend its license to allow a switch to LTE TDD and began testing in March and plans to select 5 areas for a trial.

PHS and WiMax operator Fitel is trialling LTE TDD

for one year from July 1, 2011 in Taoyuan, and is expected to request the NCC to allow migration from WiMAX to LTE if the trial proves successful. Thailand Regulator NBTC has approved trialling of LTE in 2.3 GHz and 1800 MHz spectrum.

TOT is partnering with its concession holder AIS to trial 2.3 GHz LTE TDD in 20 MHz of its total 64 MHz allocation, using 20 base stations in central Bangkok. The first test phase will run until May 2012. AIS subsidiary Digital Phone Co has joined with CAT Telecom to test LTE FDD in 1800 MHz spectrum from mid-January 2012 in Maha Sarakham. This trial has 8 base stations and will run until March 2012.

True Corp has requested approval to test LTE1800. Vietnam Regulator MIC has authorized trials by VNPT, Viettel, FPT Telecom, CMC, VTC, EVN Telecom and Gtel. Trial networks have been established in Hanoi by FPT, Viettel and VDC (a member of VNPT).

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RusViet Telecom (an Alltech company) trialled an LTE network in 2010 in Hanoi. The company plans expanding coverage of its 2.6 GHz LTE network in 2012, including to Hi Chi Minh.

Viettel said in May 2011 it had started testing an LTE deployment in Hanoi and HCM City, offering dongle-based services to 240 friendly customers.

Digital dividend spectrum (700 MHz) will be allocated after analog TV switch over to digital; this process is scheduled to begin in 2015 in the big cities. The Vietnam government announced in June 2012 that state-owned operators Vinaphone and MobiFone are to merge (subject to approvals). Europe Abkhaz

Aquafon announced that LTE testing was performed in Suchumi in co-operation with Megafon. Andorra Andorra Telecom plans to deploy LTE by 2012. Armenia VivaCell-MTS announced commercial launch of LTE services on December 28, 2011, initially in Yerevan, in 2.6 GHz spectrum.

ArmenTel (Beeline/Vimpelcom) plans to deploy LTE.

Orange organized a public demonstration of LTE at the Orange Flagship Store November 4-5, 2010 and has committed to deploy a commercial LTE network. Austria

Regulator TKK completed the auction of 2.6 GHz spectrum on September 20, 2010, raising €39.5m from A1 Telekom Austria, Hutchison 3, T-Mobile and Orange. 14 paired and 9 unpaired frequency

blocks were sold. License conditions require coverage of at least 25% of the population by 2013. A1 Telekom commercially launched LTE in Vienna and St. Pölten on November 5, 2010.

T-Mobile Austria launched a 60-cell site pilot LTE network in Innsbruck in July 2009 and entered a soft launch phase on October 19, 2010. On July 28, 2011 the company commercially launched LTE and its Internet All Inclusive LTE tariff. Orange Austria has tested LTE technology and won

2 x 10 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum in the 2010 auction. 3 Austria commercially launched LTE FDD service in Vienna using 2.6 GHz on November 18, 2011. The possibility of also deploying LTE TDD in 2.6 GHz (i.e. band 38) is being studied. The owner of 3 Austria (Hutchison) confirmed in February 2012 intent to acquire Orange Austria, which is subject to regulatory approval. Regulator TKK has published its preliminary schedule for auctioning 800 MHz, 900 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum in September 2012. It is possible that the auction may be delayed because of the proposed 3 Austria – Orange Austria takeover. Azerbaijan Bakcell is deploying a commercial LTE network. Azercell commercial launched LTE service in the center of Baku beginning June 19, 2012, from this date dongles went on sale. User tariffs are announced. The network uses 1800 MHz (LTE1800). Azerfon (Nar Mobile) has deployed its first LTE base station in Baku. WiMAX™ operator Sazz, (Azqtel) has 60 MHz of 3.5 GHz spectrum and is studying a possible migration to LTE TDD either in 3.5 GHz or in new bands e.g. 2.6 GHz, 2.3 GHz or 700 MHz (not yet allocated to Sazz) Belarus On April 1, 2012 former WiMAX™ operator Yota Bel

launched a commercial LTE network in 2.6 GHz in Minsk (29 base stations) and Grodno (9 base stations), following a test phase beginning December 1, 2011. The Belarus State Commission on Radio Frequencies issued Yota Bel a licence in December 2008 to use 2 x 30 MHz 2.6 GHz spectrum. Users are offered the Yota One LU150 LTE dongle.

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MTS (in co-operation with Beltelcom) and BeST (Life) completed their LTE trials by May 1, 2011. BeST (Life) has been trialling LTE and has 2x15 MHz in 2.6 GHz for commercial network deployment. Additional 900 and 1800 MHz spectrum is expected to be allocated by the regulator in future. Digital Dividend spectrum is expected from end 2015. Belgium

Mobistar is testing LTE and announced its intention to deploy LTE in both 1800 and 2600 MHz bands. Belgacom (Proximus) is deploying LTE in 1800 MHz spectrum. A pilot for selected customers is running in Hasselt, Mons, Waver and Haasrode. Trials are being extended to Antwerp, Ghent, Leuven, Liege and Namur. Commercial service is expected by end 2012. Spectrum in 2.6 GHz may be deployed in a later stage if more capacity is needed. Base began trialling LTE in 2011. MVNO and cable operator Telenet trialled LTE in 2010 and in June 2011 acquired 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz which could be used for LTE. Clearwire Belgium plans to launch an LTE TDD system by end 2012 in its existing 3.5 GHz spectrum. Regulator BIPT auctioned 4G licenses for a total of US$ 103.7 million, comprising 45 MHz of 2.6 GHz TDD spectrum and 3 x 20 MHz paired blocks in 2.6 GHz for FDD systems. The auction ended November 28, 2011. The new licences run for 15 years from July 1, 2012. LTE FDD spectrum was acquired by the 3 mobile incumbents and TDD spectrum was won by new entrant BUCD – its choice of technology (WiMax

or LTE TDD) is not known to GSA. BIPT launched a consultation on proposals to open 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz for HSPA and LTE. Comments were accepted until 1 October 2011. Bulgaria Selected M-Tel customers in Sofia, Varna, Rousse

and Dobrich customers have been testing its LTE1800 pilot network free of charge since January

2012. The planned number of cities with LTE coverage is planned to increase gradually in 2012 On January 6, 2012 VIVACOM confirmed permission had been received from regulator CRC to start LTE testing, for which a test network will be built in Sofia. CRC stated December 15, 2011 that 3 technology-neutral licences for vacant 1800 MHz frequencies had been granted to Max Telecom (2х8 MHz), 4G Com EAD (2х8 MHz) and Bulsatcom (2х5 MHz).

Croatia T-Hrvatski Telekom commercially launched LTE in

10 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800) on March 23, 2012 with free mobile data access on its LTE network until October 1, 2012 VIPNet demonstrated LTE in 800 MHz in March 2011 and launched a 2-week long consumer trial for 20 customers on September 1 2011 in Novi Zagreb using 800 and 1800 MHz spectrum. VIPNet announced its commercial LTE1800 service launch on March 23, 2012 offering free mobile data access on its LTE network until the end of June 2012. Velatel (Novi-net) holds 42 MHz spectrum in 3.5 GHz and is deploying an LTE TDD network since Q2 2012. Regulator HAKOM has launched a consultation into the use of 900 and 1800 MHz spectrum for mobile broadband services, including LTE deployments and has confirmed an auction will be held of digital dividend spectrum in 2H 2012 for LTE deployments. Czech Republic Telefonia O2 launched commercial LTE service in

selected areas of Prague on June 19, 2012 using 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800). In September 2011, the regulator CTU issued terms and conditions for a planned auction of 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz spectrum in 2012. In March 2012 CTU announced more details about the proposed auction to be held in November 2012. New spectrum will be allocated at end of 2012 with 15 years duration. CTU said that the 1800 MHz spectrum is reserved for a possible entrant. According to the latest reports 800 MHZ spectrum will not be offered at this time.

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Denmark Regulator Telestyrelsen concluded an auction of 2500-2690 MHz and 2010-2020 MHz spectrum on May 10, 2010, awarding spectrum to Hi3G Denmark ApS; TDC A/S; Telia Nättjänster Norden AB; and Telenor A/S. On October 12, 2010 Telestyrelsen announced that Hi3G Denmark had been granted 900 and 1800 MHz spectrum, which could be used to deploy 2G, 3G or LTE technologies nationally. Telia launched the country’s first commercial LTE system on December 9, 2010 in Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense and Aalborg in 2.6 GHz (20 MHz). On October 10, 2011 LTE commercial service was introduced with 10 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800) as a complement to 2.6 GHz. Tri-band 800/1800/2600 MHz LTE dongles and routers are available. TDC launched commercial LTE service on October 10, 2011 in Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, Aalborg, Esbjerg, Randers, Kolding, Horsens, Vejle, Roskilde. 3 Denmark is deploying an LTE FDD network combined with using 25 MHz of TDD spectrum. The first phase is in the centre of Copenhagen and Aarhus. Commercial service is expected to be launched in September 2012 at which time nearly 40% of the population will be covered. Telenor and Telia have agreed to merge their 4G/LTE, 3G and 2G networks into a joint venture called TT-Netværket P/S. The first step will be taken in a few months, when 4G sharing begins. TDC and TT-Netværket P/S were awarded 800 MHz digital dividend spectrum in the June 2012 auction. TDC won 2 x 20 MHz and TT-Netværket won 2 x 10 MHz. 739.3 million Danish kroner (around USD124.3 million) was paid in total for the five blocks of spectrum on offer (four 2 x 5 MHz blocks and one 2 x 10 MHz block). The licences come with coverage requirements. Spectrum may be used from 2013. Estonia Regulator TJA awarded LTE licenses in 2.6 GHz spectrum to incumbent mobile operators EMT, Elisa and Tele2 plus fixed-line operator Elion Enterprises.

TJA announced on December 16, 2011 that EMT, Elisa and Tele2 are permitted to deploy mobile broadband technologies e.g. LTE in 1800 MHz band. A consultation was simultaneously launched on the procedures for allocating digital dividend spectrum. EMT launched the first commercial LTE service in

Estonia on December 17, 2010 in the city centers of Tallinn, Tartu, Kohila, and at the IT College of Tallinn University of Technology. On December 19, 2011 EMT announced the start of LTE network construction using 1800 MHz spectrum. The company expects to achieve nationwide LTE coverage by 2014. On February 22, 2012 the company said in a press release that that traffic from its LTE subscribers now exceeds the traffic volume generated by GSM subscribers. The LTE network included 118 bases stations at that time. Tele2 Estonia is undertaking LTE trials. On January 7, 2011 Elisa confirmed receipt of 2.6 GHz spectrum for commercial LTE deployment, and in April 2011 opened test networks in Tallinn, Pärnu, Viljandi, Tartu and Haapsalu. Elisa plans to launch LTE service in 2H 2012 year after obtaining 800 MHz spectrum for rural areas and will also use 1800 MHz. Finland 20-year 2.6 GHz licenses were auctioned by regulator FICORA on 23 November 2009:

Elisa obtained 50 MHz, and launched a pre-commercial trial in Helsinki on June 2, 2010

TeliaSonera acquired five blocks of 2 x 5 MHz and launched an LTE network on June 2, 2010 for pre-commercial use in the city of Turku

DNA obtained 40 MHz

Finland was the first country in Europe to allow 1800 MHz spectrum to be used for LTE deployments. TeliaSonera launched the first commercial LTE service in Finland on November 30, 2010 in Turku and Helsinki. LTE1800 was commercially launched as a complement to 2.6 GHz on August 31, 2011. Elisa commercially launched its 2.6 GHz LTE network for corporate users on December 8, 2010, and announced its first client. The company launched

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LTE2600/LTE1800 service combined with DC-HSPA+ for consumers on November 17, 2011. Elisa says its LTE network will reach 100 cities by end 2012. Elisa claimed to have introduced the country’s first test LTE800 base stations in 2011. DNA Oy launched LTE commercial service on

December 13, 2011. The company said 4G speeds are created by means of two technologies supporting each other, LTE and DC-HSPA+. The company mainly uses 1800 MHz spectrum, and uses 2.6 GHz in populated areas where extra capacity is required. DNA is interested to use 800 MHz spectrum when it becomes available (after auction). The Ministry of Transport and Communications launched a consultation on November 4, 2011 proposing 800 MHz spectrum be auctioned, which could be by end 2013. Available frequencies total 2 x 30 MHz, to be auctioned in six 2 x 5 MHz frequency blocks. FICORA granted test licenses from early July 2011 for operators wishing to test LTE800 technology (i.e. in digital dividend spectrum). WiMAX™ operator Datame is preparing to introduce LTE and is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative. France FT/Orange has a trial LTE network in Paris, initially using 10 MHz supporting FDD and TDD modes, increased to 20 MHz in May 2010. HSPA and LTE in 1800 MHz are being tested including FDD-TDD co-existence tests. Orange launched a pilot LTE network in June 2012 in Marseille, and will use 2.6 GHz and 800 MHz for commercial LTE services. Service launch is expected to follow in 2012-13 timeframe. SFR trialled LTE in Marseille in 2011 and is deploying

its commercial network in 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz. Commercial launch is planned for early 2013 initially in Lyon and Montpellier, with other cities following. Bouygues Telecom is trialing LTE1800 in 10 MHz bandwidth using 2x2 MIMO at sites in Orléans and plans to deploy 5,000 LTE-capable base stations by end 2012 with service launch in 2013. The company is running a pilot network in Lyon from June 2012. ARCEP auctioned 2.6 GHz spectrum and confirmed the successful bidders and allocations:

Bouygues: 2535-2550 MHz/2655-2670 MHz

Free Mobile: 2550-2570 MHz/2670-2690 MHz

FT/Orange: 2515-2535 MHz/2635-2655 MHz

SFR: 2500-2515 MHz/2620-2635 MHz On January 17, 2012 ARCEP announced 800 MHz spectrum had been won by Orange, SFR and Bouygues Telecom, each receiving 2 x 10 MHz. WiMAX™ operator Bollore Telecom plans to introduce LTE TDD system in band 42 (3.5 GHz) and is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative. Germany A multiband spectrum auction was completed in May 2010, covering 360 MHz in 4 bands: 800 MHz (digital dividend), 1800 MHz, 2.1 GHz, 2.6 GHz. All 4 incumbents acquired 2.6 GHz to be used for LTE. Telefonica O2, Vodafone and Deutsche Telekom (but not E Plus) additionally acquired 800 MHz spectrum for LTE. The 800 MHz spectrum raised €3.576 billion, i.e. over 81.5% of the auction’s total value. E Plus is able to use 900 MHz spectrum (in

which HSPA+ will be deployed) also for LTE if it does not cause interference with other mobile networks. E Plus is conducting LTE trials in 2.1 GHz, 1800

MHz, and 2.6 GHz and LTE TDD 2.6 GHz. Since July 2011 the E Plus HQ building has LTE1800 trial coverage. E-Plus is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative and is trialling LTE TDD in cooperation with China Mobile, using 2.6 GHz spectrum. Vodafone launched the first rural LTE mobile broadband service across Germany on December 1, 2010. Around 1,500 base stations incorporated LTE technology by end March 2011, serving thousands of communities. Vodafone plans to eventually upgrade all base stations in Germany to LTE. Deutsche Telekom (DT) commercially launched its “Call & Surf Comfort via Funk” LTE service in 800 MHz on April 5, 2011. In February 2011 the company announced plans to launch LTE in 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and 2.6 GHz bands. The “Speedstick LTE” dongle was offered from Q3 2011 supporting LTE in 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz bands plus DC-HSPA+, HSPA and WCDMA in 2100 MHz, and EDGE/GPRS. The company commercially launched LTE service in Cologne on July 1, 2011 in 1800 MHz (LTE1800).

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DT has tested an LTE 4×4 MIMO system, capable of a theoretical 250 Mbps peak download speed. Telefonica O2 commercially launched LTE on July 1, 2011 in rural areas using digital dividend (800 MHz) spectrum, marketing the service as "O2 LTE für Zuhause (at home). On July 3, 2012 O2 commercially launched mobile LTE service in urban areas, initially Nuremberg and Dresden, to be followed soon by Munich and Leipzig. First LTE mobile devices were HTC ONE XL and LG True HD LTE smartphones, the O2 4G LTE surf stick (ZTE) and Asus Transformer 300 tablet. Coverage of LTE will be available in 200 towns and cities by end 2012.

Regulator BNetz is consulting on post-2016 requirements for channels in the 900 and 1800 MHz bands (GSM assignments expire in December 2016).

A survey in April 2012 by trade association Bitkom found that German LTE networks cover 13 million households and that there are now around 3,000 LTE enabled base station across the country with around 150,000 subscribers using the service. Georgia Magticom is trialling LTE; 1800MHz is an option. Greece Cosmote has completed LTE testing in 900 and 1800 MHz spectrum which included a pilot LTE network running at its technical and network HQ in the Marousi and Chalandri areas, near Athens. An extended cell technology trial was completed in 2011. Regulator EETT completed an auction of 900 and 1800 MHz technology-neutral licenses on November 14, 2011 to incumbents Cosmote, Vodafone-Panafon and Wind 380.5 million Euros. Operators seek flexibility to deploy LTE in either or both bands, recognizing that 1800 MHz is especially attractive for mobile broadband service using LTE. Analogue TV switchover is planned by 2013. Hungary Telenor is deploying a commercial LTE network. T-Mobile (MT) commercially launched LTE1800 technology based services on January 1, 2012

initially in 10 districts of Budapest (over 40% of Budapest’s population was covered). Currently 73% of Budapest’s population is covered (June 2012). On August 4, 2011 the National Media and Infocommunications Authority (NMHH) launched the auction process for the frequency usage rights of 7 spectrum blocks in the 900 MHz band for GSM, UMTS, WiMAX or LTE services. There were 6 bidders; Telenor Magyarország, Magyar Posta led consortium, RCS and RDS, Vodafone Magyarország, Magyar Telekom (MT/T-Mobile) and Viettel Group. On January 31, 2012 NMHH published the results of the 900 MHz spectrum auction: - the frequency usage right of one EGSM-band duplex frequency block of 5 MHz went to the Magyar Posta-MFB Invest Zrt.-MVM Zrt. consortium along with the 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz duplex spectrum blocks (15 MHz each); - MT won altogether 2 MHz duplex spectrum block in the 900 MHz bands; - Vodafone Magyarország won 2 MHz spectrum block in the E-GSM band; - Telenor Magyarország won altogether 1.8 MHz duplex spectrum block in the E-GSM band. Ireland

3 Ireland is preparing to commercially launch LTE; the date depends on availability of suitable spectrum. Ericsson completed LTE TDD testing in June 2010. Rgulator ComReg launched the auction process on May 25, 2012 (Information Notice ComReg 1253). The auction will cover spectrum in 800, 900 and 1800 MHz bands for the period 2013 to 2030. In total 140 MHz of paired spectrum will be offered. The deadline for submission of completed Application Forms and the submission of deposits is July 20, 2012. www.comreg.ie/_fileupload/publications/ComReg1253.pdf

ComReg is reviewing the future of the 2.6 GHz band including a review of the operation of existing licences within this spectrum. www.comreg.ie/_fileupload/publications/ComReg1209.pdf

Italy After 22 days of bidding and 469 rounds, Italy’s spectrum auction closed with the four incumbents

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TIM, Vodafone Italy, Wind and 3 Italia submitting bids totalling over € 3.9 billion (US$ 5.2 billion). Spectrum was awarded in 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz bands and can be used from end 2011 (1800 MHz), end 2012 (2.6 GHz), and January 2013 (800 MHz). 3 Italia is deploying LTE1800 and from 2013 intends

to offer multicarrier aggregation (an LTE-A feature) allowing LTE1800 and LTE2600 to be used together. Vodafone Italy announced it had secured 60 MHz of

new spectrum, comprising 2 x 10 MHz in 800 MHz, 2 x 5 MHz in 1800 MHz, and 2 x 15 MHz in 2.6 GHz. According to recent press reports, Vodafone will commercially launch LTE services in 2013 and plans to trial LTE at soccer stadiums, initially in Turin. Telecom Italia launched its LTE program in 2009 followed by trials. A public users trial was launched in Turin February 16-22, 2012. The company has spectrum for LTE in 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz bands. Wind plans early 2013 LTE launch in all major cities.

Jersey Clear Mobitel announced September 17, 2010 that it

had received an LTE test license in 2.6 GHz band. Kazakhstan Kcell plans to deploy a commercial LTE network and on July 29, 2010 announced installation of a base station in Astana to showcase LTE. On April 26, 2010 Beeline confirmed completion of LTE tests in 700

MHz, and in October 2010 announced launch of a live LTE pilot network in Almaty, the business capital. Tele2 has also signaled interest in deploying LTE. According to a local report the Minister of Communications has confirmed that preparations for the introduction of LTE services will begin this year, with a view to commercial LTE services being available in Almaty and Astana during 2013. Frequencies provisionally set to be allocated for LTE include 700/800 MHz, 2.6 GHz and 2.3 GHz. Kyrgyzstan

Saima Telecom launched commercial 2.6 GHz FDD LTE services in Bishtek on December 9, 2011.

Latvia LMT launched the country’s first commercial LTE1800 system on May 31, 2011. Bite is deploying a commercial LTE network. Fixed operator Lattelecom is reported to be ready to offer LTE services, subject to shareholder approval. Lattelecom carried out tests in 850MHz in 2011. CDMA operator Triatel is testing LTE in 800 MHz. After a day and half of bidding which began January 2, 2012 LMT, Tele2, Bite and Baltcom all gained new 2.6 GHz spectrum, which can be used from January 1, 2014. Licenses are valid for 15 years. Lithuania Omnitel launched commercial LTE service on April

28, 2011 in Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipėda, Šiauliai and Panevėžys using 1800 MHz. Modems support LTE800/1800/2600, GSM1800, GSM/UMTS900 and UMTS2100. By January 2012 coverage increased to 40% of the population in Kaunas and 25% of the population of Vilnius. Omnitel won 2 x 20 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum in the March 2012 auction. Tele2 held a public LTE demonstration in December 2010 and obtained 2 x 20 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum in the March 2012 auction. Bite Lithuania is trialling LTE and obtained 2 x 20 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum in the March 2012 auction. Regulator RRT confirmed the result of the 2.6 GHz auction on March 20, 2012. Winners were Omnitel, Tele2 and Bite. Coverage obligations are stipulated. Luxembourg Orange Luxembourg announced results of its trial 20 MHz LTE network on September 8, 2010 and will deploy LTE once licensing procedures are completed. Tango Luxembourg has received approval to deploy LTE and is deploying the network. Commercial service is targeted in 2012 in the City of Luxembourg. Macedonia

Regulator AEC is consulting with operators on the best way to introduce LTE and a spectrum auction.

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The release of 800 MHz spectrum is scheduled for June 1, 2013. Applications for 800 MHz can be made. Moldova Orange Moldova plans to deploy a commercial LTE network. LTE capabilities were showcased at the first Orange Expo in September 2011 and a trial network is deployed in Chișinău. Moldcell demonstrated LTE technical readiness on

February 3, 2012. InterDnestrCom (IDC) launched commercial LTE service in 800 MHz in Trans-Dniester in the capital Tiraspol, connecting its first customer April 21, 2012. Monaco Monaco Telecom has been granted access to LTE spectrum and is trialing LTE for a group of test customers. If a successful outcome is achieved, commercial services could be launched by end 2013. Cable and Wireless, Monaco Telecom’s main shareholder, chose Monaco as the Group’s test-bed. Montenegro Telenor announced November 8, 2011 start of LTE trials in Podgorica, and on November 22, 2011 announced “LTE coverage” in Cetinje. The company is targeting commercial service launch by mid 2012. Velatel (Montenegro Connect) has 40 MHz in 3.5

GHz. Deploying an LTE TDD network since Q2 2012. Netherlands 2.6 GHz FDD spectrum was auctioned in April 2010 and awarded to incumbents KPN, Vodafone, T-Mobile, newcomers Ziggo 4 (currently an MVNO on KPN’s network) and Tele2. The TDD spectrum was

not bought.

Vodafone NL launched commercial LTE service in Eindhoven on May 1, 2012.

Ziggo launched commercial LTE service on May 3, 2012 for its Internet Plus business customers in Breda, Oss and Zwolle.

Tele2 NL launched commercial LTE service on May 8, 2012 in Amstelveen, Amsterdam, Haarlem, Lelystad and Tilburg. KPN launched commercial LTE service on May 11, 2012 in The Hague and Utrecht for business users.

T-Mobile launched commercial LTE service on May

11, 2012 for business users in Delft, Gorinchem, Leiden, Rotterdam, and The Hague. Regulator OPTA is expected to auction 800 MHz spectrum around October 2012. This is expected to trigger a significant expansion of LTE coverage. Norway

Norway held Europe’s first 2.6 GHz auction in 2007 which was awarded to incumbents TeleNor and TeliaSonera (NetCom); total allocation 2 x 90 MHz.

TeliaSonera launched the world’s first LTE networks in Oslo and Sweden in December 2009. TeleNor has trialled LTE in Oslo and is deploying a commercial network planned for launch in 2012. Regulator NPT has confirmed that 790-862 MHz spectrum will be allocated for mobile broadband. Poland The world’s first LTE1800 network was deployed by Aero2 and commercially launched on September 7, 2010 by Mobyland and CenterNet. The primary customer (i.e. MVNO) is Cyfrowy Polsat who launched commercial services on August 30, 2011. (Note: GSA does not categorize MVNOs as “networks” - therefore Cyfrowy Polsat is not included in GSA’s list of commercially launched LTE networks). In November 2009 Aero2, a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative, acquired 50 MHz in Band 38 for LTE TDD. After testing in Aleksandrów Łódzki and Łódź, Aero2 announced the launch of their LTE TDD network in May 2011 and the start of availability of their dual LTE network, since Aero2 had already deployed an LTE1800 network as stated above. Polkomtel was acquired on June 30, 2011 by Spartan Capital Holdings, which is indirectly controlled by Zygmunt Solorz-Zak, chairman/founder

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of Cyfrowy Polsat, and who controls Aero2, owner of Mobyland. Polkomtel operates a GSM 900/1800 and 3G/2100 network. Polkomtel launched commercial LTE services as an MVNO on November 29, 2011 under its Plus brand, utilizing the LTE 1800 and HSPA+900 networks of Aero2 and Mobyland/Centernet in 16 major cities, representing 22% population coverage, for customers using the Huawei E398 dongle. (Note: GSA does not categorize MVNOs as “networks” - therefore Polkomtel is not included in GSA’s list of commercially launched LTE networks). Regulator UKE (Urząd Komunikacji Elektronicznej) has launched a tender process for 2.6 GHz and digital dividend (790-862 MHz) spectrum, which can be used for LTE. New 1800 MHz spectrum is also likely to be auctioned in 2012. UOKiK (Office of Competition and Consumer Protection) approved plans by PTK Centertel (Orange) and P4 (Play) to create a combined LTE network. This new JV will be allowed to bid in the 2.6 GHz auction in 2012. T-Mobile (PTC/ERA) is interested in deploying LTE and new infrastructure systems are LTE-ready. Portugal Regulator ANACOM announced the results of its

auction on December 12, 2011 after 9 bidding rounds. Spectrum in 800 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz was sold to the 3 incumbents. Vodafone also acquired 2 x 5 MHz of additional 900 MHz spectrum, but another block was not sold. Spectrum in 450 MHz and 2.1 GHz was left unsold. TMN commercially launched LTE service on March

12, 2012 in 2.6 GHz. By end March coverage was 20%, and exceeded 80% in April 2012 as 800 MHz was brought into use (digital TV switchover was completed April 26th). TMN plans > 90% by end 2012. Vodafone commercially launched LTE service on March 12, 2012 in 2.6 GHz. The LTE network will eventually use 800 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz. Optimus launched commercial LTE service on March 15, 2012.

Romania On July 2, 2012 regulator ANCOM published the official notice on organization and procedures for the auction of 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2600 MHz spectrum for mobile communications services in the 2013-2029 timeframe. Applications must be submitted by August 13, 2012. Names of the approved bidders will be announced on August 20, 2012. The auction is planned to begin on September 10, 2012. Final results are expected in October. Details www.ancom.org.ro/en/legislatie_4688 Vodafone said an LTE network could be launched by end 2012 depending upon the auction outcome. RCS & RDS plans to become an LTE operator and will take part in the spectrum auction. Orange is committed to deploying a commercial LTE network and is the only Romanian operator to have received an LTE test license (September 2010). Russia MTS, Vimpelcom, Tele2, MegaFon and Rostelecom are all committed to deploying LTE. The

Regulator in principle admits that technology neutrality can be applied to 900/1800MHz spectrum. However, to avoid GSM service quality deterioration if LTE is launched alongside GSM frequencies this topic had to be examined further in a study to be finished by March 2012.

On February 2, 2012 MTS announced the company had been awarded the first license to provide LTE services in Moscow and the Moscow region. The license granted is for LTE TDD deployment in the 2595 – 2620 MHz range. MTS is required to launch the LTE network before December 29, 2013, and the license is valid until December 29, 2016. The company is also seeking FDD spectrum this year.

Tele2 Russia has requested permission to deploy LTE1800. In October 2011 Tele2 indicated it would conduct an independent trial of LTE technology in the 1800 MHz band, and applied to the State Commission for Radio Frequencies (SCRF) for permission to run tests in Pskov and Omsk, setting aside 5 MHz of spectrum in 1800 MHz for the tests. Tele2 has already provided the results of earlier research commissioned by themselves as well as

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from reports by leading global manufacturers of telecommunication equipment showing that GSM and LTE networks can operate simultaneously in the 1800 MHz frequency band. The efficiency of this solution was clearly demonstrated by research carried out and published in a report by the Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA) – this free report “Embracing the 1800MHz opportunity: Driving mobile forward with LTE in the 1800MHz band” may be downloaded by registered GSA website site users at www.gsacom.com

Tele2 Russia announced successful completion of tests by end March 2012 in trial zones in Omsk and Pskov. Tests were performed according to a method developed by the State Radio Institute and with the assistance of its experts, and intended to demonstrate that LTE and GSM technologies can share the same frequencies without degrading the quality of end user service. Tele2 said that the test results confirmed that there was no service quality degradation in the GSM network, while the data transmission rate in the LTE network reached 75 megabits per second. A detailed report on the LTE technology testing in the 1800 MHz band is being prepared by NIIR for submission to the State Commission for Radio Frequencies. www.en.tele2.ru/news.html?year=2012&month=3&news_id=6170

MegaFon and Rostelecom, general partners of the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games, successfully tested LTE networks close to the key Sochi site of Roza Khutor. LTE capabilities will be showcased during the 2014 Games. The Defence Ministry has reportedly given Rostelecom approval to deploy LTE TDD in 2.3 GHz spectrum. MegaFon showcased LTE

at the IX International Investment Forum (Sochi) in Sept 2010. Megafon acquired WiMAX™ operator Synterra in 2010, has reportedly built 300 LTE TDD sites in Moscow, and is waiting for approval to use the spectrum for commercial operation. Megafon has an agreement with Yota to operate as an MVNO over Yota’s LTE network. (Note: GSA does not categorize MVNOs as “networks”).

In September 2011 SCRF issued an authorization for Yota (Scartel) to deploy an LTE FDD network in 2.6 GHz spectrum in 180 cities. Yota is shifting from WiMAX™ to LTE and launched commercial LTE FDD service in Novosibirsk, Siberia on January 15, 2012 following a friendly-launch test phase which began on

December 20, 2011. Yota has 63 LTE base stations in Novosibirsk, and plans to expand to 150 base stations by the Spring. Yota launched commercial

LTE service in Moscow on May 10, 2012, Krasnodar (also on May 10), and Sochi (May 11) and plans to deploy 1,550 LTE-enabled base stations instead of current WiMax equipment. Service was launched also in Samara (May 23, 2012), and Ufa will be commercial on July 28, 2012. Yota expects its whole customer base will migrate to LTE within three years.

In September 2011, VimpelCom announced an LTE network-sharing deal with rival MTS, while MegaFon and Rostelecom signed an agreement with Yota to jointly use operators’ infrastructure.

OAO Voentelecom is trialling LTE TDD in Rostov, Moscow and Kubinka. Base Telecom has a licence for LTE TDD, according to reports. Commercial service must be launched by January 26, 2014.

Antares Group has deployed 5 LTE base stations for

a trial network using 1900 – 1920 MHz (Band 33) spectrum in Moscow intended for further expansion and is targeting commercial launch in 2012.

SMARTS Group has deployed a pilot LTE trial

network in Ufa. The trial comprises at least 7 base stations and re-uses SMARTS’ existing 1800 MHz spectrum. The trial also involves the cooperation of the NIIR and is expected to be completed later this Spring, with the findings presented to SCRF.

WiMAX™ operator Enforta, providing services to business users in 172 cities, plans to launch a test LTE TDD network (3.5 GHz) in Kemerovo this Spring.

Smoltelecom is planning to introduce LTE and is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative.

On May 3, 2012 Russian regulator Roskomnadzor published the conditions for application for and subsequent awarding of LTE licenses in 791-862 MHz spectrum. Four lots will be offered, each consisting of two 7.5 MHz blocks in the range of 791-862 MHz. Recipients of each of the lots will also be awarded two 7.5 MHz blocks in the 720-791 MHz range and two 10 MHz blocks in the 2500 – 2690 MHz range. All licenses are nationwide. Compensation must be paid to existing spectrum users in the offered bands. Eight companies submitted bids to participate in the auction, who are understood to be MegaFon, Vimpelcom, MMTS,

http://www.gsacom.com/

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Rostelecom, Summa Telecom, TTK, Tele2-Voronezh, and Tele2-Omsk. The auction process is scheduled to commence on July 12, 2012. Slovak Republic Regulator TU SR granted licenses to Telefonica O2, Orange and T-Mobile Slovensko for each to trial LTE FDD networks in 2.6 GHz in Banská Bystrica. Orange has committed to deploy a commercial LTE network. TU SR is considering auctioning 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum for LTE in 2012. TU SR is also considering whether to reserve additional 900 MHz and 1800 MHz channels for a new participant, which could also be used for LTE services. Slovenia Mobitel deployed an LTE1800 network in Ljubljana

and began testing June 1, 2011. Downlink speeds up to 100 Mbps were reported with system responsiveness better than HSPA+. Mobitel plans deployment of LTE and LTE Advanced in 800/1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz. LTE1800 will be commercially launched in 2012. In July 2011 Si.mobil announced its testing of LTE in 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. Spain In June 2010 Ministerio de Industria, Turismo y Comercio (MITYC) launched a consultation on re-allocation of 2.6 GHz and re-farming of 900/1800 MHz. An auction began on June 29, 2011 for 58 blocks of 800, 900 MHz and 2.6 GHz frequencies, with licences valid to 2030. The auction ended on July 29, 2011 raising €1.65bn for 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz licenses. Spectrum was won by Vodafone, Telefónica and FT-Orange. 800 MHz channels can be used from 2014 after digital TV switchover. 2.6 GHz can be used now. Vodafone plans to use both bands for LTE, and re-farm 900 MHz for additional rural HSPA or LTE-based coverage.

Telefónica has commercial pilot networks in Madrid and Barcelona. Vodafone announced in September 2011 opening of pre-commercial LTE pilot networks in Madrid, Barcelona and Malaga. Orange announced plans for commercial rollout of LTE in Valencia and Barcelona in 2012, where its pilot networks are running. Yoigo acquired 1800 MHz spectrum in 2011 for LTE1800.

Regional start-up LTE operation COTA is trialling LTE TDD in Región de Murcia, south-eastern Spain. Sweden TeliaSonera launched the world’s first LTE networks in Stockholm and Norway (Oslo) in December 2009. A multiband 800/1800/2600 MHz multimode modem was introduced in July 2011. In May 2012 the company said LTE covers two-thirds of the population and had reached 140,000 LTE subscriptions.

Tele2 Sweden and TeleNor Sweden deployed an LTE network through a jointly-owned company (Net4Mobility), which includes spectrum sharing in 900 MHz and 2.6 GHz. Using this network, Tele2 Sweden and TeleNor Sweden commercially launched LTE services to their respective customers on November 15, 2010, initially in Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmo and Karlskrona. In May 2012 Tele2 Sweden and Telenor Sweden announced joint trials of an LTE-Advanced (LTE-A) network.

Hutchison 3 is deploying an LTE FDD network and also using 50 MHz of TDD spectrum bought from Intel. Network technical readiness was announced by its infrastructure vendor on December 15, 2011. Commercial LTE service was launched April 23, 2012 according to information provided by the operator to GSA. LTE is currently offered in Stockholm, Gothenburg, Malmo and Lund. The LTE network uses TDD in 2.6 GHz and FDD in 2.6 GHz and 800 MHz. Customers may also use 3G/HSPA up to 42 Mbps (peak DL) in 2.1 GHz and 900 MHz bands.

An auction for 800 MHz opened on February 28, 2011 and ended after 5 days and 31 rounds. All the winners will use this spectrum for LTE.

An auction for a total of 2 x 35 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum, for use from January 2, 2013, began on October 11, 2011. TeliaSonera acquired more nationwide frequencies in the 1800 MHz band. The new frequencies will be used for their LTE network and for strengthening the mobile telephony network. In addition to its existing 10 MHz, TeliaSonera has also acquired 2 x2 5 MHz in 1800 MHz spectrum. The new licences are valid for 25 years from 2013.

Net4Mobility also acquired more 1800 MHz spectrum for LTE1800. It means Net4Mobility and TeliaSonera each has 2 x 35 MHz in 1800 MHz.

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A consultation has started to determine interest in, and future use of, 2300 – 2400 MHz (Band 40) Switzerland Orange is enhancing coverage and capacities for mobile data and voice services, and preparing for commercial LTE service introduction in 2013. Demo platforms will be constructed in ten cities this year. Swisscom launched a pilot LTE project on December

8, 2011 in tourist locations and has promoted LTE at retail outlets since January 2012. The company plans to deploy LTE across 12 cities and towns by end 2012, and begin nationwide rollout in 2013. Sunrise has indicated strong interest in deploying LTE for urban areas and possibly ski resorts. Network trials are planned to begin in 2012 and base sites will begin to be upgraded by end 2012. Regulator ComCom announced on February 23, 2012 the results of its auction which re-allocated frequencies used for licences which were due to expire, as well as the issue of new spectrum. http://www.comcom.admin.ch/aktuell/00429/00457/00560/index.html?lang=en&msg-id=43520 Turkey Turkcell has trialled LTE. In stationary tests downlink

speeds up to 170 Mbps were achieed. On April 6, 2012 Turkcell announced results of its mobile LTE trial in an area between Kartal and Maltepe (Istanbul). http://ekonomi.milliyet.com.tr/turkcell-mobil-internette-4g-hizinda-saha-testini-gecti/ekonomi/ekonomidetay/07.04.2012/1525128/default.htm GSM1800 operator Avea announced on September 15, 2011 a successful trial of LTE technology on its existing commercial base stations. Vodafone has trialled LTE and deployed GSM/HSPA infrastructure which is also LTE-capable.There is no firm date for an auction of LTE spectrum. Ukraine MTS-Ukraine is trialling LTE. ITC (CDMA Ukraine) is considering deploying LTE in 850 MHz spectrum.

United Kingdom UK Broadband is deploying an LTE TDD network

and on February 29, 2012 announced it had switched on its first LTE system in London. This is the first TD-LTE 3.5GHz deployment in the world and the first commercial LTE deployment in the UK. The network uses allocations within the company’s 124 MHz of spectrum in Bands 42 and 43 (3.5/3.6GHz). UK Broadband operates a wholesale model and launched commercial services on June 28, 2012. Recommended White Paper by UK Broadband: Mobile network design in the data world - Utilising higher frequencies and Time Division Duplex LTE Technology to deliver capacity and coverage

Registered site users may download the white paper via the link on www.gsacom.com Not registered? Sign up here www.gsacom.com/php/register_form.php4 Vodafone has conducted a number of LTE trials. O2 has tested LTE in 2.6 GHz spectrum and has trialled LTE800 in Carlisle since mid 2010. In November 2011 the company started a large-scale LTE trial in central London, lasting until summer 2012, using 20 MHz of test spectrum in the 2.6 GHz band. The trial ran across 25 LTE cell sites and covered 40 sq. km. Triallists used Samsung B3730 dongles, personal wireless hotspots and handsets. O2 plans commercial LTE service launch in 2013. Clear Mobitel is trialing LTE800 for rural mobile

broadband in Cornwall. If successful, the company will seek a license for commercial rollout. Manx Telecom (Isle of Man) plans to trial LTE with a view to possible commercial services launch in 2013. Arqiva is running an LTE trial in Wales using 800 MHz spectrum to demonstrate the economic and technical viability of a “neutral-host” wireless network. Everything Everywhere, owner of Orange and T-Mobile UK collaborated with BT from 2011 on an LTE trial in 800 MHz test spectrum in a rural area of south west England; around 200 residents participated, the trial was extended to run to mid-2012. EE announced a large investment program (1.5 billion UK Pounds) for its 3G/HSPA network to

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http://www.gsacom.com/php/register_form.php4

July 11, 2012


support growing data use, including backhaul, which can be easily upgraded for LTE. EE is conducting various LTE1800 trials including one in Cumbria, northern England, with local residents participating until end July 2012. EE is also trialling LTE1800 in Bristol. In January 2012 EE requested permission from regulator Ofcom to deploy commercial LTE services in re-farmed 1800 MHz spectrum. Ofcom gave provisional approval on March 13, 2012 and invited comments by May 8, 2012. See the GSA response to Ofcom consultation re Everything Everywhere application to deploy LTE in 1800MHz via the link on www.gsacom.com Ofcom has authorized all five mobile operators to trade the rights to the radio spectrum they hold, covering 900 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz. EE is preparing to sell some of its 1800 MHz spectrum as a regulatory requirement attached to the creation of the Orange/T-Mobile joint venture. 3 UK is operating a pilot LTE network in Maidenhead and Slough, to be followed by a consumer-based trial. Initially planned for 2009, the 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz auction by Ofcom of LTE spectrum was delayed by a change of government, and failure to reach consensus amongst and with mobile operators. Bidding in the auction is expected to begin Q1 2013. A second consultation on the award of 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum requested comments by March 22, 2012. Another consultation is about co-existence of mobile services and digital TV in 800 MHz. Ofcom has launched a consultation on use of 700 MHz spectrum for mobile broadband, following the Resolution passed at WRC 2012 this year that could lead to ITU Region 1 i.e. Europe, Africa, Middle East adopting 700 MHz for mobile broadband from 2015. Uzbekistan MTS announced on July 28, 2010 commercial launch of the first LTE network (pre-commercial service) in the CIS and Central Asia, in Tashkent and plans significant coverage expansion. Ucell (TeliaSonera) announced commercial LTE network launch (pre-commercial service) in Tashkent on August 9, 2010. Beeline Uzbekistan announced its LTE network in

Tashkent entered into a test phase in February 2012.

Middle East and Africa Angola Movicel launched commercial LTE service in Cabinda on April 14, 2012 in 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800), and is extending network coverage areas with Luanda now covered. Unitel is trialling LTE in 2.1 GHz and showcased LT

at the Filda Exhibition, July 2011. Bahrain Zain confirmed in August 2009 plans to deploy LTE, and showcased the region’s first LTE call in March 2010. VIVA launched a small scale commercial LTE network on January 1, 2012 in the ‘Bahrain City Centre’ retail and leisure complex in Manama. Batelco announced its LTE trial held in Hamala in December 2011, and showcased VoD over LTE during the International Air Show 2012. Regulator TRA has confirmed plans to offer additional radio spectrum later this year or in early 2013, comprising 2.6 GHz FDD spectrum for release in 2 tranches. 900 and 1800 MHz spectrum will also be offered plus 15 MHz of 1.9 GHz unpaired spectrum. Botswana

Mascom Wireless announced on June 12, 2012 the setting up of an LTE pilot trial network. Egypt Vodafone, Mobinil and Etisalat Misr have each trialled LTE. Ghana Glo Mobile announced planned start of commercial

operations on January 19, 2012. Parent Globacom planned to invest c. $600 million to deploy a ‘unique, seamless and world class LTE network’. It is unclear to GSA if commercial service launch is achieved. The National Information Technology Agency (NITA) is upgrading its WiMAX™ network to LTE by end 2012.


July 11, 2012


Ghana aims to transition from analog to digital TV by end 2014. Israel Cellcom awarded infrastructure upgrade contracts to two suppliers – one for the north, one for the south. Spectrum for commercial service is awaited. Jordan Zain Jordan plans to launch LTE service in 2012. Regulator TRC has invited comments from incumbents on proposals for 2.6 GHz LTE licenses. Kenya Safaricom has trialled LTE in its existing 3G

spectrum. The government favors a single LTE network with Private Public Partnership ownership. Kuwait Viva Kuwait commercially launched LTE services on December 27, 2011. Zain Kuwait began trialling LTE

in 2010. Lebanon MTC Touch is deploying an LTE network initially with 50 base stations. Alfa is deploying an LTE network in 800 MHz (band 20) and 2.6 GHz. Libya Al Madar plans to deploy an LTE network. Mauritius Orange Mauritius commercially launched LTE on June 21, 2012 in some areas of Port Luis. Emtel soft-

launched its LTE network on May 29, 2012, planning commercial launch by end July 2012. Morocco Regulator ANRT is preparing for a spectrum auction for LTE in autumn 2012, implying commercial systems could launch by end 2013 or early 2014.

Namibia On 30 March 2012 the Communications Regulatory Authority of Namibia (CRAN) converted operating licences owned by MTC, AfricaOnline and WTN to incorporate technology and service neutrality. MTC launched commercial LTE service on May 16, 2012 in Windhoek in 1800 MHz (LTE1800). MTC plans to cover 45% of the population with LTE within 12 months, including part of the rural areas. Leo (Cell One) has confirmed interest in acquiring sub-1GHz (i.e. digital dividend) spectrum for LTE. Nigeria Globacom provides LTE-connectivity to a third party company providing wireless backhaul services to corporate users in Lagos and other cities. Globacom plans to launch LTE services for mobile users at a future date as devices become available. Zoda Fones (Megatech Engineering) has awarded an infrastructure contract for deployment of a commercial LTE TDD network in 2.6 GHz (band 38). CDMA operator Starcomms is studying how deployment of LTE could enhance its business value and is seeking to obtain more spectrum. Oman Omantel has showcased LTE TDD and announced in June 2011 it was the first Arab network to join the Global TD-LTE Initiative (GTI). A commercial network deployment is planned in 2012. On June 26, 2012 the company announced it would be commercially launching its LTE network “in the coming few days”. Nawras presented its showcase of LTE on March 11, 2012 in the Muscat Grand Mall and is preparing for LTE introduction. Qatar On December 7, 2010 Vodafone announced a live demonstration of LTE in 800 MHz spectrum. Qtel completed a nationwide LTE trial in 800 MHz spectrum and on October 4, 2011 announced its

July 11, 2012


commercial network deployment program with nearly 900 LTE base stations planned. Qtel is discussing spectrum requirements with regulator ictQATAR. Saudi Arabia Etisalat (Mobily) commercially launched LTE TDD

on September 14, 2011 via its Bayanat subsidiary, in Najran, Jazan, Al Kharj, Ras tanoura, Algurayat and Aldudam in band 38 (2.6 GHz). STC commercially launched LTE TDD service in Riyadh and Dammam on September 14, 2011 in band 40 (2.3 GHz). By May 2012 STC had upgraded 1,500 base stations serving 38 cities and is targeting 65% pop coverage by end 2012. Zain launched commercial LTE1800 (FDD) service in Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam on September 14, 2011, planning expansion to all major cities by end 2012. South Africa Vodacom has 1,000 LTE-ready sites, with launch planned “when handsets become available” which MTN assumes as being from 2012 although a lack of spectrum would delay launch after this date. MTN is deploying LTE1800. In the longer term 2.6 GHz and 800 MHz are sought. A pilot LTE1800 trial network was launched in Guateng in July 2011. Cell C is trialling LTE in own 900 MHz and in test 850 MHz spectrum. Telkom South Africa (8ta) said its network is future-proofed for LTE, which the company is trialling. The company will use re-farmed 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800). 8ta also has 70 MHz of spectrum in the 2.3 GHz band for LTE TDD deployment. CDMA operator Neotel is trialling LTE in Midrand in own 800 MHz. Neotel also owns 3.5 GHz spectrum. Wireless Business Solutions (WBS), holding interests in companies including iBurst and Broadlink, plans to deploy LTE from mid-2012. Regulator ICASA held a briefing on December 14, 2011 to announce its approach to licensing digital dividend and 2.6 GHz bands; applications were

required by March 23, 2012. The aim was to complete licensing by April 30, 2012. The auction has since been postponed until further notice. Digital TV switchover was scheduled to begin in April 2012. Tanzania Following a pilot test phase in April 2012, Smile announced on May 30, 2012 commercial LTE service launch in 800 MHz (band 20) in Dar es Salaam and plans nationwide coverage within one year. Tunisia Tunisiana is upgrading its network to 3G and LTE.

UAE Regulator TRA has informed operators that 2.6 GHz for LTE deployments is available. TRA is also studying and planning frequency ranges 694-790 MHz and 790-862 MHz which are expected to be vacated after digital switchover from analog to digital TV broadcasting. As data traffic is growing on mobile networks and there is an increasing demand to offer more spectrum for mobile broadband to enable higher data rate services, the TRA said it strives to meet the needs of the sector and seeks the views and feedback from the sector for planning of these bands. TRA has launched a public consultation on Band Plan 694-862 MHz. Comments were required by 3.00pm July 5, 2012. Details are on the TRA website www.tra.gov.ae/consultations.php Etisalat launched commercial LTE service on September 25, 2011. LTE USB modems were widely introduced at Etisalat outlets on December 18, 2011. Etisalat uses 2.6 GHz spectrum indoors and 1800 MHz outdoors in urban areas, and 1800 MHz in suburban areas. Etisalat is seeking an allocation of 800 MHz for nationwide coverage. Coverage currently includes major cities and represents 70% population coverage. Tablets and smartphones will be introduced in Q3 2012. Introduction of VoLTE by end 2012 is a goal. Du completed LTE trials in April 2011 and launched

commercial LTE service using LTE1800 on June 12, 2012.

July 11, 2012


LTE TDD: Global network commitments, trials, deployments, commercial launches

LTE TDD LINKEDIN GROUP: 1,250+ Members www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=3978061

The Global TD-LTE Initiative (GTI) aims to bring

together leading industry partners to steer the TD-LTE ecosystem as a major standard in mobile broadband technology & drive the development of next generation mobile broadband networks. Website: www.lte-tdd.org

Australia NBN Co launched a commercial 2.3 GHz LTE TDD network on April 2, 2012

Australia Optus is deploying a national 2.3 GHz LTE TDD network

Austria 3 is considering LTE TDD deployment in band 38, in addition to existing FDD system

Brazil Sky Brazil launched a commercial LTE TDD network in December 2011

Canada WiMAX™ operator Xplornet trialled LTE TDD in 2.5 GHz and 3.5 GHz spectrum

China China Mobile launched large-scale LTE TDD trials extended in 2012 to 20,000 base sites

Croatia Velatel is deploying LTE TDD in 3.5 GHz

Denmark 3 acquired 2.6 GHz TDD spectrum, deploying combined LTE FDD/TDD network

France Orange has deployed a trial LTE network in Paris supporting FDD and TDD modes. Bollore plans to deploy 3.5 GHz LTE TDD

Germany E-Plus is trialling LTE TDD in 2.6 GHz

Hong Kong BWA spectrum won by China Mobile, 21 Vianet Group, and Hutchison 3 HK. China Mobile & 3 HK are each deploying combined LTE FDD/TDD networks

India Bharti Airtel commercially launched LTE TDD service on April 10, 2012

RIL is deploying LTE TDD

Qualcomm India LTE Venture is committed to LTE TDD deployment.

Tikona Digital will deploy LTE TDD

Aircel is trialling LTE TDD

BSNL may introduce LTE TDD

MTNL may introduce LTE TDD

Ireland LTE TDD testing was completed June 2010

Japan Softbank Mobile commercially launched its XGP/LTE TDD network in February 2012

Malaysia WiMAX™ operator Packet Networks (P1) plans to deploy LTE TDD overlay network. WiMAX™ operator Asiaspace plans to deploy 2.3 GHz LTE TDD

Montenegro Velatel is deploying LTE TDD in 3.5 GHz

Nigeria Zoda Fones deploying LTE TDD in 2.6 GHz

Oman Omantel showcased LTE TDD, plans deployment

Poland Aero2 launched LTE TDD in Band 38 (2.6 GHz), part of Aero2’s dual mode LTE network (LTE TDD and LTE1800 FDD)

Russia Rostelecom is reported to have approval to deploy LTE TDD network in 2.3 GHz spectrum

Voentelecom is trialling LTE TDD

MTS is deploying 2.6 GHz LTE TDD

Megafon is deploying LTE TDD

Base Tel. plans LTE TDD network

Enforta deploying 3.5 GHz LTE TDD test network

Saudi Arabia

Etisalat Mobily launched a commercial LTE TDD network in September 2011 STC launched a commercial LTE TDD network in September 2011

Singapore IDA plans to auction spectrum suitable for LTE TDD

South Africa

8ta plans to deploy LTE TDD in 2.3 GHz

Spain COTA is trialling in Región de Murcia

Sweden

3 Sweden launched LTE TDD in Band 38 (2.6 GHz), part of 3 Sweden’s dual mode LTE network (LTE TDD and LTE2600 FDD)

Taiwan CHT has completed LTE tests on the high-speed rail system using TDD and FDD modes in 2.6GHz spectrum FarEasTone and China Mobile are co-operating on an LTE TDD trial in Taipei The National Chiao Tung University conducted a trial of LTE TDD in 2010 WiMAX™ operator Global Mobile Corp has requested approval to switch to LTE TDD and is preparing a trial network Fitel (PHS, WiMAX™) trialling LTE TDD

Thailand AIS – TOT joint trial in 2.3 GHz band

UK UK Broadband commercially launched 3.5 GHz LTE TDD wholesale service 28.06.12

Uruguay Dedicado planning 3.5 GHz LTE TDD deployment

USA Clearwire announced plans to deploy LTE TDD overlay to existing network in Band 41 WiMAX™ operator Xplornet Communications trialled LTE TDD

Venezuela WiMAX™ operator Movilmax plans to deploy 2.5 GHz LTE TDD

July 11, 2012


LTE1800: LTE deployments in 1800 MHz band

LTE network deployment in 1800 MHz is a promising option in many markets and was first acknowledged by the Finnish Ministry of Transport & Communications whose decision of April 2009 to allow LTE to be deployed in this spectrum enabled the possibility to provide fast mobile broadband networks with a substantially wider coverage at lower cost than when using 2.6 GHz, which requires a considerably larger number of base stations. The decision also meant that wireless networks capable of transferring data more efficiently could be introduced (in Finland) more rapidly. The motivations are clear:

Coverage area approx. 2x compared to deploying in 2.6 GHz band

Possibility to re-use assets including antenna cables of GSM1800 or WCDMA-HSPA2100

Possibility to deploy multi-RAN with simultaneous LTE and GSM capabilities

1800 MHz band widely available throughout Europe, APAC, MEA, regions of South America – thus having the potential to be a core - and global - band for LTE deployments

Operators often have sufficient bandwidth in 1800 MHz to secure the full benefits of LTE

Often easier to re-farm than 900 MHz

User device eco-system is building; a good choice of user devices available by end 2011

Can be a transition strategy between HSPA and availability of new (e.g. 2.6 GHz, digital dividend) spectrum

This report confirms 23 commercial LTE1800 operators are launched - see list on next page

LTE1800 User Devices Ecosystem

GSA’s Status of the LTE Ecosystem report (July 3, 2012) confirmed 98 LTE user devices can operate in 1800 MHz. This figure is almost double the number

that GSA reported in January 2012

Press release: www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_354.php4

‘Status of the LTE Ecosystem’ report is a free download for registered site users via the link at www.gsacom.com (registration page for new site users www.gsacom.com/php/register_form)

Further analysis of GSA’s database of LTE user devices – including LTE1800 products, is possible using GAMBoD, the GSA Analyzer for Mobile Broadband Devices, which is a unique search and analysis tool developed by GSA for mobile broadband devices, allowing searches by supplier, form factor, features, peak downlink and uplink speeds, and operating frequency. Results are presented as a list, or as a spreadsheet, or as charts. An RSS feed can be set for alerts as new devices are added to the database. Charts may be inserted into documents or presentations, subject to accreditation of GSA as the source. There are two GAMBoD tools; one is for HSPA user devices, and one is for LTE user devices.

Visit www.gsacom.com/gambod/index.php4 GAMBoD is available only to qualified site users, defined as representatives of GSA Member companies who registered using their corporate email address, or representatives of network operators who have registered using their corporate email address.

The LTE1800 Zone on www.gsacom.com provides a vast amount of information about deployment of LTE in 1800 MHz spectrum, including recent white papers by Ericsson, Huawei, Nokia Siemens Networks, Sierra Wireless, and ZTE plus updates/presentations from mobile operators including StarHub and Tele2 Russia, and other resources. Visit the LTE1800 Zone via the banner on www.gsacom.com LTE1800 LinkedIN Group: 1,300+ Members

www.linkedin.com/groups?=&gid=3129390

http://www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_354.php4


http://www.gsacom.com/gambod/index.php4



July 11, 2012


LTE1800 Global Status

Poland Mobyland/ CenterNet

Commercially launched

Lithuania Omnitel Commercially launched

Singapore M1 LTE1800/2600 commercial service launched

Germany DT Commercially launched

Latvia LMT Commercially launched

Finland TeliaSonera Commercially launched

S. Arabia Zain Commercially launched

Australia Telstra Commercially launched

Denmark Telia Commercially launched

Finland Elisa LTE2600/1800 DC-HSPA+ commercial service launched

Hong Kong CSL Limited LTE2600/1800 DC-HSPA+ commercial service launched

Singapore SingTel LTE1800/2600 commercial service launched

Finland DNA LTE1800/2600 commercial service launched

Hungary T Mobile Commercially launched

Sth Korea KT Commercially launched

Croatia T-Hrvatski Commercially launched

Croatia VIPNet Commercially launched

Angola Movicel Commercially launched

UAE Etisalat LTE1800/2600 commercial service launched

Namibia MTC Commercially launched

UAE Du Commercially launched

Azerbaijan Azercell Commercially launched

Czech Rep O2 Commercially launched

Australia Optus LTE1800 in deployment

Australia VHA LTE1800 in deployment

Belgium Mobistar LTE1800 in deployment

Belgium Proximus LTE1800 in deployment

Bulgaria M-TEL Trials

Brazil Oi Trials

Croatia VIPnet 800/1800MHz consumer trial

Estonia Elisa In deployment

Estonia EMT In deployment

France Bouygues Trials

France Orange Trials

Georgia Magticom 1800 MHz is an option

Germany E Plus Trials

Greece Cosmote Trialled.

Hong Kong Smartone LTE1800 in deployment

Indonesia Indosat LTE1800 planned

Italy Three LTE1800 in deployment for use alongside LTE2600

Malaysia Celcom Trials – 1800 and 2600 MHz

Philippines Bayan Tel Plans to deploy LTE1800

Poland All operators New 1800 MHz auction

Russia Tele2 Tests completed

Russia SMARTS Pilot trial network in Ufa

Singapore StarHub Targeting July 2012 launch

Slovak R. All operators Incumbents interested

Slovenia Mobitel LTE to be deployed in 800, 1800,2600 MHz. LTE1800 launch target of 2012

Sth Africa 8ta LTE1800 in deployment

Sth Africa MTN LTE1800 in deployment

Sth Korea SK Telecom LTE1800 in deployment

Spain Yoigo LTE1800 in deployment

Sri Lanka Dialog Axiata LTE1800 planned

Sweden Tele2 and TelNor

LTE1800 in deployment via Net4Mobility joint venture

Sweden TeliaSonera LTE1800 in deployment

Thailand AIS/DPC-CAT

Trials

Thailand True Move Planning trials

Turkey Avea Trials

UK Everything Everywhere

Trialling LTE1800 Provisional approval given to deploy commercial network

Venezuela Digitel LTE1800 planned

KEY LTE1800 REPORT

1800MHz spectrum key to global success of LTE services, GSA study shows

This GSA report demonstrates the strong appeal of using 1800 MHz spectrum for mobile broadband. It shows from practical, economic and business perspectives why 1800 MHz will emerge as a prime band for LTE deployments in virtually all regions of the world, and its importance for international roaming. “Embracing the 1800MHz opportunity: Driving mobile forward with LTE in the 1800MHz band” report was prepared for GSA by Innovation Observatory and benefits from the insights and experiences shared by several GSA member companies and pioneer LTE1800 operators. The report was sponsored by CSL LTd, Deutsche Telekom, Elisa, Qualcomm, StarHub and Telstra and provides the clearest signals to investors, policy-makers and all stakeholders about the expanding opportunities being driven by the global interest in LTE1800, backed by firm deployment commitments.

Press release with the report’s key conclusions: www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_342.php4

Download the report (English, Russian versions)

via the links on www.gsacom.com



July 11, 2012


280 LTE commitments in 90 countries

Country Operator Expected launch

Norway TeliaSonera Launched 14.12.09

Sweden TeliaSonera Launched 14.12.09

Uzbekistan MTS Launched 28.07.10

Uzbekistan UCell Launched 09.08.10

Poland Mobyland and CenterNet Launched 07.09.10

USA MetroPCS Launched 21.09.10

Austria A1 Telekom Launched 05.11.10

Sweden TeleNor Sweden Launched 15.11.10

Sweden Tele2 Sweden Launched 15.11.10

Hong Kong CSL Limited Launched 25.11.10

Finland TeliaSonera Launched 30.11.10

Germany Vodafone Launched 01.12.10

USA Verizon Wireless Launched 05.12.10

Finland Elisa Launched 08.12.10

Denmark TeliaSonera Launched 09.12.10

Estonia EMT Launched 17.12.10

Japan NTT DoCoMo Launched 24.12.10

Germany Deutsche Telekom Launched 05.04.11

Philippines Smart Communications Launched 16.04.11

Lithuania Omnitel Launched 28.04.11

Singapore M1 Launched 21.06.11

Latvia LMT Launched 31.05.11

South Korea SK Telecom Launched 01.07.11

South Korea LG U+ Launched 01.07.11

Germany O2 (Telefonica) Launched 01.07.11

Canada Rogers Wireless Launched 07.07.11

Austria T Mobile Launched 28.07.11

USA Mosaic Telecom Launched Jul 2011

Canada Bell Mobility Launched 14.09.11

Saudi Arabia Mobily (LTE TDD) Launched 14.09.11

Saudi Arabia STC (LTE TDD) Launched 14.09.11

Saudi Arabia Zain Launched 14.09.11

USA AT&T Mobility Launched 18.09.11

UAE Etisalat Launched 25.09.11

Australia Telstra Launched 27.09.11

Denmark TDC Launched 10.10.11

Austria 3 Launched 18.11.11

Puerto Rico AT&T Mobility Launched 20.11.11

Puerto Rico Claro Launched 24.11.11

Kyrgyzstan Saima Telecom Launched 09.12.11

Brazil Sky Brazil (LTE TDD) Launched 13.12.11

Finland DNA Launched 13.12.11

Uruguay Antel Launched 13.12.11

USA Leap Wireless/Cricket Launched 21.12 11

Singapore SingTel Launched 22.12.11

Kuwait Viva Launched 27.12.11

Armenia Vivacell-MTS Launched 28.12.11

Bahrain Viva Launched 01.01.12

Hungary T Mobile Launched 01.01.12

South Korea KT Launched 03.01.12

Russia Yota Launched 15.01.12

Canada Telus Launched 10.02.12

USA Peoples Telephone Co-op Launched 14.02.12

Japan Softbank (XGP/LTE TDD) Launched 24.02.12

Portugal TMN (Portugal Telecom) Launched 12.03.12

Portugal Vodafone Portugal Launched 12.03.12

Portugal Optimus Launched 15.03.12

Japan eMobile Launched 15.03.12

USA US Cellular Launched 22.03.12

Croatia T-Hrvatski Telekom Launched 23.03.12

Croatia VIPNet Launched 23.03.12

USA Panhandle Telephone Co-op Launched Mar 2012

Belarus Yota Bel Launched 01.04.12

Australia NBN No (LTE TDD) Launched 02.04.12

India Bharti Airtel (LTE TDD) Launched 10.04.12

Angola Movicel Launched 14.04.12

Puerto Rico Open Mobile Launched 19.04.12

Moldova IDC Launched 21.04.12

Sweden 3 Sweden Launched 23.04.12

Hong Kong China Mobile HK Launched 25.04.12

Hong Kong PCCW Launched 25.04.12

USA Cellcom Launched 30.04.12

USA Pioneer Cellular Launched 30.04.12

Netherlands Vodafone Launched 01.05.12

Hong Kong 3 HK Launched 02.05.12

Netherlands Ziggo Launched 03.05.12

Netherlands Tele2 Launched 08.05.12

Netherlands KPN Launched 11.05.12

Netherlands T-Mobile Launched 11.05.12

Namibia MTC Launched 16.05.12

USA BendBroadband Launched 17.05.12

Tanzania Smile Launched 30.05.12

UAE Du Launched 12.06.12

Colombia Une-EPM Launched 14.06.12

Azerbaijan Azercell Launched 19.06.12

Czech Rep Telefonica O2 Launched 19.06.12

Mauritius Orange Launched 21.06.12

UK UK Broadband (LTE TDD) Launched 28.06.12

Dominican R Orange Dominicana Launched 09.07.12

Andorra Andorra Telecom 2012

Australia Optus FDD later LTE TDD 2012

Azerbaijan Azerfon 2012

Bahamas BTC 2012

Belgium Belgacom (Proximus) 2012

Belgium Clearwire Belgium (LTE TDD) 2012

Belgium Mobistar 2012

Canada MTS Allstream 2012

Canada Sasktel 2012

China China Telecom 2012

Costa Rica Claro 2012

Costa Rica ICE 2012

Denmark 3 Denmark 2012

Denmark TeleNor 2012

Dominican R Emtel 2012

Estonia Elisa 2012

Ghana Glo Mobile 2012

Ghana NITA (LTE TDD) 2012

Hong Kong SmarTone 2012

India Reliance (LTE TDD) 2012

India Qualcomm India LTE Venture 2012

Italy 3 Italia 2012

Japan KDDI 2012

Jordan Zain 2012

Lithuania Bite 2012

Lithuania Tele2 2012

Luxembourg Tango 2012

Malaysia P1 Networks (LTE TDD) 2012

Malaysia Asiaspace (LTE TDD) 2012

Mexico Telcel 2012

Moldova Moldcell 2012

Montenegro Telenor 2012

Nepal Ncell 2012

Norway TeleNor 2012

Paraguay Vox 2012

Philippines Globe 2012

Russia Antares Group 2012

Russia Rostelecom (LTE TDD) 2012

Russia Vimpelcom 2012

Russia Tele2 2012

Russia Megafon (LTE TDD) 2012

Singapore StarHub 2012

Slovenia Mobitel 2012

South Africa WBS 2012

South Africa Vodacom 2012

Spain Orange 2012

Switzerland Swisscom 2012

UK Everything Everywhere 2012

USA Aircell 2012

USA Alaska Communications 2012

July 11, 2012


USA BayRICS 2012

USA Bluegrass Cellular 2012

USA C Spire Wireless 2012

USA CenturyLink 2012

USA Cross Telephone 2012

USA NorthwestCell 2012

USA Sprint 2012

USA VTel Wireless 2012

USA West Central Wireless 2012

Uzbekistan Beeline 2012

Venezuela Movistar 2012

France Orange 2012-13

Ireland Hutchison 3 2012-13

Switzerland Sunrise 2012-13

Australia BigAir 2013

Australia VHA 2013

Brazil Claro 2013

Brazil Oi 2013

Brazil TIM 2013

Brazil Vivo 2013

France Bouygues Telecom 2013

France SFR 2013

Italy Vodafone 2013

Italy Wind 2013

Malaysia DiGi 2013

Malaysia Maxis 2013

Mexico Telefónica 2013

Monaco Monaco Telecom 2013

Russia MTS (LTE TDD) 2013

Switzerland Orange 2013

UK O2 2013

USA Clearwire 2013

USA Copper Valley Telecom 2013

USA T-Mobile USA 2013

Bulgaria M-Tel 2013-14

China China Mobile (LTE TDD) 2013-14

Armenia Armentel To be confirmed

Armenia Orange Armenia To be confirmed

Australia EnergyAustralia Ausgrid To be confirmed

Austria Orange To be confirmed

Azerbaijan Bakcell To be confirmed

Bahrain Zain To be confirmed

Belarus BeST (Life) To be confirmed

Belize BTL To be confirmed

Belgium KPN Base To be confirmed

Canada Videotron To be confirmed

Chile Entel PCS To be confirmed

Chile Movistar To be confirmed

Chile Claro To be confirmed

China Velatel-Aerostrong (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

Colombia Tigo To be confirmed

Croatia Velatel (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

Dominican R Tricom To be confirmed

Estonia Tele2 To be confirmed

Finland Datame (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

France Bollore Telecom (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

Germany E Plus To be confirmed

Greece Cosmote To be confirmed

Guam IT&E To be confirmed

Hong Kong 21 Vianet Group (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

Hungary Telenor Magyarország To be confirmed

India Tikona Digital (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

Indonesia Indosat To be confirmed

Indonesia Telkomsel To be confirmed

Indonesia XL Axiata To be confirmed

Israel Cellcom To be confirmed

Italy Telecom Italia To be confirmed

Jamaica Claro To be confirmed

Jersey Clear Mobitel To be confirmed

Kazakhstan Kcell To be confirmed

Kuwait Zain To be confirmed

Latvia Bite To be confirmed

Latvia Tele2 To be confirmed

Lebanon Alfa To be confirmed

Lebanon MTC Touch To be confirmed

Libya Al Madar To be confirmed

Luxembourg Orange To be confirmed

Malaysia U Mobile To be confirmed

Moldova Orange To be confirmed

Montenegro Velatel (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

Namibia Leo (Cell One) To be confirmed

New Zealand Telecom NZ To be confirmed

New Zealand Vodafone NZ To be confirmed

Nigeria Globacom To be confirmed

Nigeria Zoda Fones (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

Oman Nawras To be confirmed

Oman Omantel To be confirmed

Panama Cable and Wireless To be confirmed

Philippines Piltel To be confirmed

Philippines Bayan Telecommunications To be confirmed

Poland ERA/T-Mobile To be confirmed

Poland PTK Centertel (Orange) To be confirmed

Qatar Qtel To be confirmed

Romania Orange To be confirmed

Romania Vodafone To be confirmed

Russia Base Telecom (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

Russia Smoltelecom (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

South Africa Cell C To be confirmed

South Africa MTN To be confirmed

South Africa 8ta To be confirmed

Slovak Rep Orange To be confirmed

Spain Telefónica To be confirmed

Spain Vodafone To be confirmed

Spain Yoigo To be confirmed

Sri Lanka Dialog Axiata To be confirmed

Sri Lanka Mobitel To be confirmed

Taiwan Global Mobile (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

Taiwan Chunghwa Telecom To be confirmed

Tunisia Tunisiana To be confirmed

UK Vodafone To be confirmed

Uruguay Dedicado (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

USA Agri-Valley Broadband To be confirmed

USA Appalachian Wireless To be confirmed

USA Carolina West Wireless To be confirmed

USA Chariton Valley Comms To be confirmed

USA Chat Mobility To be confirmed

USA Custer Telephone To be confirmed

USA ETC To be confirmed

USA Etex Telephone Co-op To be confirmed

USA Commnet Wireless To be confirmed

USA Convergence Technologies To be confirmed

USA Lightsquared To be confirmed

USA Matanuska Telephone Assoc To be confirmed

USA Sagebrush Cellular (Nemont) To be confirmed

USA O2 Secure Wireless To be confirmed

USA PVT To be confirmed

USA Peoples Telephone Co-op To be confirmed

USA S and R Communications To be confirmed

USA S&T Telephone Cooperative To be confirmed

USA SGRITA To be confirmed

USA SpeedConnect To be confirmed

USA Sprocket Wireless To be confirmed

USA Strata Networks To be confirmed

USA Texas Energy Network To be confirmed

USA Thumb Cellular To be confirmed

USA United Wireless To be confirmed

USA Public Service Wireless To be confirmed

USA City of Charlotte Council To be confirmed

Vietnam RusViet Telecom To be confirmed

Venezuela Digitel To be confirmed

Venezuela Movilmax (LTE TDD) To be confirmed

© GSA – Global mobile Suppliers Association – 11.07.12

July 11, 2012


58 pre-commitment LTE network trials Country Operator

Abkhaz Aquafon

Angola Unitel

Argentina Telefonica

Argentina Personal

Azerbaijan Sazz

Bahrain Batelco

Belarus MTS

Belgium Telenet

Bolivia Entel Movil

Botswana Mascom Wireless

Brazil Algar Telecom (CTBC)

Brazil Sao Paulo Military Police

Brazil Army – trials planned

Bulgaria Vivacom

Canada Wind Mobile

Canada Xplornet (LTE TDD)

Egypt Vodafone

Egypt Mobinil

Egypt Etisalat Misr

Georgia Magticom

India BSNL – study phase LTE TDD

India MTNL – study phase LTE TDD

Indonesia Bakrie Telecom

Isle of Man Manx Telecom

Latvia Triatel

Latvia Lattelecom

Kazakhstan Beeline

Kazakhstan Tele2

Kenya Safaricom

Malaysia Celcom

New Zealand Kordia – study phase

New Zealand Woosh – study phase

Nigeria Starcomms – study phase

Peru Telefonica

Qatar Vodafone Qatar

Russia Enforta test network LTE TDD

Russia OAO Voentelecom

Slovak Republic O2 (Telefonica)

Russia SMARTS

Slovak Republic T-Mobile Slovensko

Slovenia Si.mobil

South Africa Neotel

Spain COTA (LTE TDD)

Taiwan Fitel (LTE TDD)

Thailand DPC/AIS

Thailand AIS – TOT

Thailand True Move

Turkey Avea

Turkey Turkcell

UK 3 UK

UK Clear Mobitel

UK Arqiva

Ukraine MTS-Ukraine

USA Dish Network seeking FCC approval

USA ISICSB

Vietnam FPT Telecom

Vietnam VDC (VNPT)

Vietnam Viettel

© GSA – Global mobile Suppliers Association www.gsacom.com July 11, 2012

The LTE Ecosystem of User Devices: 417 LTE User Devices

The GSA ‘Status of the LTE Ecosystem’ report (July 3, 2012) confirmed 67 manufacturers have announced 417 LTE-enabled user devices. The number of LTE user devices announced more than tripled over the past year and includes 83 smartphones and 31 tablets. The report includes devices for FDD and TDD modes, form factors, frequencies, and support for fallback technologies when outside LTE coverage areas (i.e. HSPA, HSPA+, DC-HSPA+, EV-DO, or TD-SCDMA).

45 Modules 31 Tablets 19 Notebooks 1 PC Cards 3 Femtocell 83 Smartphones 157 Routers 78 Dongles

Press release: www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_354.php4

The ‘Status of the LTE Ecosystem’ report is free for registered site users via the link at www.gsacom.com (registration page for new site users: www.gsacom.com/php/register_form). Check www.gsacom.com for updates




http://www.gsacom.com/php/register_form


July 11, 2012


LTE subscriptions

Q1 2012: c. 17 million LTE subscriptions (LTE Subscriptions figures provided to GSA by Informa Telecoms and Media on May 16, 2012)

Download these charts as JPEG files at http://www.gsacom.com/news/statistics.php4

Also available in a single PDF file on www.gsacom.com via the link to “LTE subscriptions growth to Q1 2012”

Analysts on LTE ABI Resarch (May 2012): Global LTE subscriptions are expected to exceed 40 million by the end of 2012 Infonetics Research (May 2012): LTE spending in Q1 2012 is up 128% from the year-ago first quarter. Infonetics

forecasts the LTE equipment market to grow to $17.5 billion in 2016. Strategy Analytics (May 2012): One billion LTE connections by 2017, accounting for 15% of all mobile connections in 2017, putting it on a faster trajectory than any other mobile technologies. GSM took 12 years to reach 1 billion connections, WCDMA will take nearly 11 years, LTE will take just over 7 years.

Recommended: upcoming leading conference supported by GSA

………. where LTE will be discussed

See the GSA website Events page for details of GSA supported Events worldwide www.gsacom.com/events/index.php4

GSA Member companies receive discounts off the delegate fees for most of the listed events.

http://www.gsacom.com/news/statistics.php4


http://www.gsacom.com/events/index.php4

July 11, 2012


More LTE resources from GSA www.gsacom.com

Operator Viewpoint presentations: Latest additions (all added to the GSA website in June 2012)

o LTE1800 Trial Results - Spectrum Considerations on the Russian Market (Tele2)

o Multi-frequency Data Wholesale Operator’s Case Study (Aero2)

o LTE Roaming - Customer Expectations/Requirements (Saudi Telecom Company)

TD-LTE: The View from India (presentation by Aeroflex at CommunicAsia 2012) Map: Worldwide LTE network commitments, launches and trials

Free download (PDF) at www.gsacom.com or as a JPEG file at www.gsacom.com/news/statistics.php4

For GSA member organizations and network operators who have registered using their corporate email address. Analyze GSA’s database of 3,000+ HSPA user devices – including HSPA+. Review the dual mode HSPA – LTE products.

GAMBoD - LTE tool for analyzing 417 LTE user devices! Log in and access GAMBoD via the banner on www.gsacom.com

LTE TDD LinkedIN Group www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=3978061 LTE1800 LinkedIN Group www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=3129390 LTE User Devices LinkedIN Group www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=4146472

GSA (Global mobile Suppliers Association) represents GSM/EDGE/WCDMA-HSPA/LTE suppliers, providing reports, facts, analysis and information explaining market developments and trends. GSA-organized seminars facilitate enhanced dialog between operators, members and developer communities. GSA Member organizations: Aeroflex • BelAir Networks • Bytemobile • Ericsson • Huawei • inCode • mimoOn • Nokia • Nokia Siemens Networks • Qualcomm • Renesas Mobile • Sony Ericsson • ST-Ericsson • Talking Eye • Telcordia Technologies GSA brings together a global industry community of stakeholders including 50,000 registered website users for dialog, knowledge gathering, sharing of key facts, trends, and analysis. Over 10,000 people use our social network platforms. Register for free updates, reports, information papers, maps, charts, etc. at www.gsacom.com/php/register_form.php4

GSA Secretariat Press: [email protected] General: [email protected] Phone: +44 1279 439 667 Website: www.gsacom.com

RSS Feed: www.gsacom.com/rss/gsanews.php4 GSA LinkedIN group www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=2313721 Twitter: www.twitter.com/gsacom Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/Global-mobile-Suppliers-Association-GSA/123462771012551

GSA strives at all times to ensure that the information provided is always as accurate as possible. The content contained in this report is

based on information provided to GSA in good faith but such information cannot always be fully guaranteed and at all times. Therefore such

content is provided without warranty in currentness, completeness or correctness. Errors and Omissions Excepted.

Copyright © GSA – Global mobile Suppliers Association. Reproduction of this material for non-commercial use is allowed if the source is

stated. For other use please contact the GSA Secretariat via email to [email protected]

ETSI has registered “LTE” as a trademark for the benefit of the 3GPP Partners. GSA is a Market Representation Partner in 3GPP

http://www.gsacom.com/news/statistics.php4

GSA_Evolution_to_LTE_report_110712.pdf

Documents

Transcript of GSA_Evolution_to_LTE_report_110712.pdf