AT&T says it will roll out a true 5G network in a dozen markets, based on newly released standards by the international wireless standards body 3GPP, by the end of the year.
Adopting 3GPP specifications differ from current trials using 5G technology that beam signals between stationary antennas. AT&T, among many other companies, has been a key driver for the acceleration of 5G radio standards. With the specifications now available, hardware, chipset and device manufacturers can begin development, according to AT&T’s announcement.
“5G will change the way we live, work and enjoy entertainment,” says Melissa Arnoldi, president, AT&T Technology and Operations. “We’re moving quickly to begin deploying mobile 5G this year and start unlocking the future of connectivity for consumers and businesses. With faster speeds and ultra-low latency, 5G will ultimately deliver and enhance experiences like virtual reality, future driverless cars, immersive 4K video and more.”
Verizon, T-Mobile and Sprint previously stated their intent to also offer mobile 5G services; however, none of the carriers have announced specific plans. On Wednesday, Samsung Electronics America announced it had been selected to supply Verizon with commercial 5G fixed wireless access network solutions. The two companies stated they will begin by launching commercial 5G services in Sacramento in the second half of 2018.
Last year, AT&T launched pre-standards 5G fixed wireless trials in Austin and Waco, Texas; Kalamazoo, Mich.; and South Bend, Ind.; with residential, small business and education customers. The company has not said where it plans to launch mobile 5G initially or what airwaves or network equipment it plans to use.
If you enjoyed this article and want to receive more valuable industry content like this, click here to sign up for our digital newsletters!
Leave a Reply