GSA Evolution To LTE Report 070413

Evolution to LTE Report
April 7, 2013
This report and all related materials and resources

are copyright of GSA Global mobile Suppliers
Association. Any texts, images, layouts or other
contents may not be copied or distributed, whole or in
part, without the written consent of GSA, except for
personal non-commercial use. For such purposes
please contact the Secretariat by email to
info@gsacom.com
Introduction
In this Evolution to LTE report, GSA presents the
current situation based on GSAs current research, to
provide the industry with facts and analysis about the
global status and growth of mobile broadband
enabled by LTE. The Evolution to LTE report is
regularly updated and may be downloaded by any
registered user of the GSA website. Information is
provided about the LTE system both for FDD and
TDD
modes,
technical
standards,
operator
investments and commitments including listings of all
network deployments, studies and trials, commercial
service launches (see GSAs definition of commercial
launch below), and regulatory developments
including spectrum supporting LTE-enabled mobile
broadband service network deployments.
For
further
information
www.gsacom.com/disclaimer.php4
visit
LTE Market Summary April 7, 2013

163 commercial networks in 67 countries
415 operators investing in LTE in 124 countries
Details are also provided about LTE user devices

which have been announced by manufacturers.
Information for the production of this report was

obtained in several ways, including from regular
information exchanges and direct contacts by GSA
with senior management in network operator
organizations, regulatory authorities, suppliers and
other stakeholders. This is in addition to consideration
and analysis of public statements where appropriate
e.g. company press releases and briefings, in order to
establish the facts as accurately as possible and
ensure that this report reflects the true LTE mobile
broadband market situation.
361 operator commitments in 114 countries

54 pre-commitment trials in 10 more countries
GSA forecasts 248 commercial LTE networks

in 87 countries by end 2013
MVNOs are excluded
GSA www.gsacom.com
GSA re-affirms LTE as the fastest developing

mobile system technology ever
Comments about the report including news/updates

should be sent to email info@gsacom.com
GSA provides additional LTE-related resources to
complement this report, including various maps and
charts, which can be downloaded by registered site
users at www.gsacom.com/news/statistics.php4
LTE is a mainstream technology and rapid

expansion globally is continuing in 2013
GSAs definition of commercial launch:
Selected charts and maps are also available as PDF

files see the relevant links on our home page
www.gsacom.com
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 operators 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.
Readers may also download these related reports:
please
Status of the LTE Ecosystem report

Status of the Global LTE TDD Market report
Status of the Global LTE1800 Market report
April 7, 2013
163 commercial LTE networks in 67 countries

Country
Operator
Launch
Norway
Sweden
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan
Poland
USA
Austria
Sweden
Sweden
Hong Kong
Finland
Germany
USA
Finland
Denmark
Estonia
Japan
Germany
Philippines
Lithuania
Latvia
Singapore
South Korea
South Korea
Germany
Canada
Austria
USA
Canada
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia
USA
UAE
Australia
Denmark
Austria
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
Kyrgyzstan
Brazil
Finland
Uruguay
USA
Singapore
Kuwait
Armenia
Bahrain
Hungary
South Korea
Russia
TeliaSonera (NetCom)
TeliaSonera
MTS
UCell
Aero2 (LTE FDD and TDD)
MetroPCS
A1 Telekom
Telenor Sweden
Tele2 Sweden
CSL Limited
TeliaSonera
Vodafone
Verizon Wireless
Elisa
TeliaSonera
EMT
NTT DoCoMo
Deutsche Telekom
Smart Communications
Omnitel
LMT
M1
SK Telecom
LG U+
O2
Rogers Wireless
T-Mobile
Mosaic Telecom
Bell Mobility
Mobily (LTE TDD)
STC (LTE TDD) later FDD
Zain
AT&T Mobility
Etisalat
Telstra
TDC
3
AT&T Mobility
Claro
Saima Telecom
Sky Brazil (LTE TDD)
DNA
Antel
Cricket
SingTel
Viva
Vivacell-MTS
Viva Bahrain
T Mobile
KT
Yota
14.12.09
14.12.09
28.07.10
09.08.10
07.09.10
21.09.10
05.11.10
15.11.10
15.11.10
25.11.10
30.11.10
01.12.10
05.12.10
08.12.10
09.12.10
17.12.10
24.12.10
05.04.11
16.04.11
28.04.11
31.05.11
21.06.11
01.07.11
01.07.11
01.07.11
07.07.11
28.07.11
07. 2011
14.09.11
14.09.11
14.09.11
14.09.11
18.09.11
25.09.11
27.09.11
10.10.11
18.11.11
20.11.11
24.11.11
09.12.11
13.12.11
13.12.11
13.12.11
21.12.11
22.12.11
27.12.11
28.12.11
01.01.12
01.01.12
03.01.12
15.01.12
Canada
USA
Japan
Portugal
Portugal
Portugal
Japan
USA
Croatia
Croatia
USA
Australia
India
Angola
Puerto Rico
Moldova
Sweden
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
USA
USA
Netherlands
Hong Kong
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands
Namibia
USA
Tanzania
UAE
Colombia
Azerbaijan
Czech Rep
Mauritius
UK
Guam
Hungary
Dominican R.
Slovenia
USA
Oman
Australia
Mauritius
Slovak Rep
Hong Kong
Poland
Russia
Russia
USA
Singapore
Japan
Japan
Canada
TELUS
Peoples Telephone Co-op
Softbank Mobile XGP/LTE TDD
TMN (Portugal Telecom)

Vodafone Portugal
Optimus
eAccess
US Cellular
T Mobile/T-Hrvatski Telekom
VIPNet
Panhandle (PTCI)
NBN Co (LTE TDD)
Bharti Airtel (LTE TDD)
Movicel
Open Mobile
IDC
3 (LTE FDD and TDD)
CM HK (LTE FDD later TDD)
PCCW
Cellcom
Pioneer Cellular
Vodafone
3 HK
Ziggo
Tele2
KPN
T-Mobile
MTC
BendBroadband
Smile
Du
Une-UPM
Azercell
Telefonica O2
Orange
UK Broadband (LTE TDD)
IT&E
Telenor Hungary
Orange Dominicana
Si.mobil
Sprint
Omantel LTE TDD later FDD
Optus
Emtel
Telefonica O2
Smartone
Polkomtel Plus
Megafon (LTE TDD)
MTS (LTE TDD)
C Spire Wireless
StarHub
KDDI
Softbank Mobile
MTS
10.02.12
14.02.12
24.02.12
12.03.12
12.03.12
15.03.12
15.03.12
22.03.12
23.03.12
23.03.12
03. 2012
02.04.12
10.04.12
14.04.12
19.04.12
21.04.12
23.04.12
25.04.12
25.04.12
30.04.12
30.04.12
01.05.12
02.05.12
03.05.12
08.05.12
11.05.12
11.05.12
16.05.12
17.05.12
30.05.12
12.06.12
14.06.12
19.06.12
19.06.12
21.06.12
28.06.12
28.06.12
05.07.12
09.07.12
12.07.12
15.07.12
16.07.12
31.07.12
July 2012
02.08.12
28.08.12
Sept 2012
01.09.12
01.09.12
10.09.12
19.09.12
21.09.12
21.09.12
25.09.12
April 7, 2013
Denmark
Philippines
Luxembourg
Guam
Tajikistan
Norway
South Africa
USA
Mexico
Luxembourg
UK
Uganda
Belgium
USA
Antigua-Barb
Mexico
Italy
Italy
Montenegro
USA
Greece
Moldova
USA
Moldova
Romania
Kuwait
France
USA
Estonia
France
Switzerland
South Africa
Romania
Brazil
Angola
Bolivia
Greece
Puerto Rico
Kazakhstan
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
USA
Malaysia
Canada
Italy
Paraguay
Canada
Oman
Paraguay
Bahrain
New Zealand
Brazil
Lithuania
USA
3 Denmark
Globe
Tango
DoCoMo Pacific
Babilon-Mobile
Telenor
Vodacom
Alaska Communications
Telefonica Movistar
Orange
EE
Smile
Belgacom / Proximus
Bluegrass Cellular
Digicel
Telcel
Vodafone
TIM
Telenor
Sprocket Wireless
Cosmote
Moldcell
Strata Networks
Orange Moldova
Vodafone
Zain
Orange
Shentel
Tele2
SFR
Swisscom
MTN
Orange
Claro
Unitel
Entel Movil
Vodafone
Sprint Nextel
Altel
Dialog LTE TDD later FDD
Mobitel
Thumb Cellular
Maxis
Sasktel
3 Italia
Personal
Eastlink
Nawras
Vox
Batelco
Vodafone
On (LTE TDD)
Tele2
MiSpot
28.09.12
28.09.12
01.10.12
04.10.12
06.10.12
10.10.12
10.10.12
12.10.12
15.10.12
29.10.12
30.10.12
Oct 2012
05.11.12
05.11.12
06.11.12
06.11.12
06.11.12
07.11.12
08.11.12
09.11.12
16.11.12
16.11.12
19.11.12
20.11.12
20.11.12
21.11.12
22.11.12
23.11.12
27.11.12
28.11.12
29.11.12
01.12.12
12.12.12
13.12.12
16.12.12
16.12.12
17.12.12
18.12.12
25.12.12
30.12.12
31.12.12
12.12
01.01.13
31.01.13
01.02.13
08.02.13
15.02.13
17.02.13
18.02.13
27.02.13
28.02.13
03.13
03.13
14.03.13
Dominican R.
Slovenia
Guam
USA
Tricom
Mobitel
iConnect
T Mobile USA
18.03.13
20.03.13
20.03.13
26.03.13
GSA Global mobile Suppliers Association www.gsacom.com
3GPP LTE is a single global

standard with FDD and TDD
modes, delivering capacity, 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 is high and
operators should deploy the most efficient
technologies available to them. LTE can be deployed
in existing 2G or 3G bands and in new spectrum e.g.
2.6 GHz or digital dividend bands (700 or 800 MHz
depending on region). In the USA, LTE deployments
typically use 700 MHz (primarily band 13 or band 17)
or AWS (1.7/2.1 GHz). New digital dividend spectrum
is being allocated in Europe, Asia and elsewhere,
enabling extended geographical coverage and
improved in-building performance. Commercial LTE
services are running on several networks using 800
MHz (band 20), often targeting rural broadband
needs and improved indoor coverage. The capacity
band in most regions is 2.6 GHz. There is high
interest in re-farming 2G spectrum for LTE, especially
1800 MHz, and in a few cases 900 MHz. Most
regulators 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 (operatordependant). New 700 MHz (APT700) spectrum has
been allocated ready for future use.
April 7, 2013
LTE TDD Systems
Design targets for the 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
downlinkpaired 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
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, and also provides 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 standard, 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 services, significant resources are
suitable for LTE TDD. The largest contiguous bands
are 2.3 GHz (100 MHz) and within the 2.6 GHz band
(50 MHz according to the CEPT band plan). There
are also many deployments in progress or planned
using 3.5 GHz (bands 42/43), which has significant
future potential for LTE. Due to the demand for radio
technologies for unpaired bands and leveraging the
commonalities above, LTE TDD can exploit global
economies of scale similar to LTE FDD, with a short
time to market as a mainstream technology, and is
thus an ideal path for WiMAX operators to grow
their business, which many are adopting. LTE TDD
operator commitments, system maturity and status of
the devices eco-system are covered in this report.
LTE radio network products incorporate several

features to simplify building and management of nextgeneration
networks.
Plug-and-play,
selfconfiguration 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 IPMultimedia Subsystem (IMS) to support all access
technologies, including fixed access. This allows:
LTE Advanced Systems

LTE FDD and LTE TDD have a clear evolution
towards LTE Advanced which includes many features
originally considered for the ITUs IMT-Advanced
system. In October 2010 the ITU designated LTE
Advanced as an IMT-Advanced (4G) system. IMTAdvanced provides a global platform on which to
build next-generations of interactive mobile services
for faster data access, enhanced roaming, unified
messaging and broadband multimedia. LTE
Advanced test systems are operating around the
world, achieving transmission data rates of 1 GB/s on
the downlink and 200 Mbps on the uplink. Multicarrier LTE (an LTE Advanced feature) is
commercially launched. 3GPP published Release 10
of the standard in March 2011 and froze the features
set for LTE Advanced. Completion of Rel. 10 was the
final step to ensure that the 3GPP radio interface will
meet the requirements of IMT-Advanced. Several
operators are preparing to introduce LTE Advanced
features in their networks in 2013.
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 resulting evolved packet system comprizes the

core network, evolved packet core (EPC) and radio
network. The whole system is often called LTE.
LTE Category 4 enables 150 Mbps peak downlink
and is the next evolution step and is already market
reality; systems and user devices are on the market.
April 7, 2013
Worth, Detroit, Boston, Sacramento and New York.

Samsung SCH-R900/Craft was also the first multimode CDMA-LTE handset. LTE network expansion
continues. MetroPCS had 2.2 million LTE subs by
end 2012 and has agreed to merge with T Mobile
USA, subject to shareholder approval at its meeting
on April 12, 2013.
Verizon Wireless commercially launched LTE using
700 MHz (band 13) on December 5, 2010. Verizon
said coverage would match its 3G network by 2013.
LTE service is available in 486 cities and c. 89% of
the population (273.5 million people, April 2013
company website). Verizon is now deploying LTE
using AWS, targeting commercial service in 2H 2013.
Verizon plans to deploy VoLTE late 2013-early 2014.
Through its LTE in Rural America program Verizon
works 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
by sharing its 700 MHz Upper C block spectrum. The
current 18 LTE in Rural America participants are:
Appalachian Wireless Kentucky
Bluegrass Cellular - Kentucky
Cellcom Wisconsin and Michigan
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
MTPCS Montana, Louisiana, Texas
NorthwestCell Missouri
Pioneer Cellular Oklahoma
Sagebrush Cellular (Nemont) Dakota,
Montana
S and R Communications - Indiana
Strata Networks Utah
Thumb Cellular - Michigan
LTE Advanced capabilities

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. At the
plenary meeting of TSG SA in September 2012,
Release 11 of the 3GPP specification sets for GSM,
UMTS and LTE Advanced (and access-agnostic)
systems was functionally frozen. However, a further
few months are needed before all specifications can
be considered complete as some features are not yet
fully specified.
More on 3GPP standards at www.3gpp.org
LTE networks, developments global round-up

Americas
USA
Pioneer Cellular launched commercial LTE service

on April 30, 2012. Cellcom launched commercial LTE
service on April 30, 2012 in Green Bay, Sturgeon
Bay, Appleton, Oshkosh, Wausau, Oconto and
Marinette Counties. Bluegrass Cellular launched
commercial LTE service on November 5, 2012
covering 348,000 population. Sprocket Wireless
On September 21, 2010 regional carrier MetroPCS

became the first operator in the USA to launch LTE.
MetroPCS offered the worlds first commercially
available LTE handset, the Samsung Craft. Service
was launched in Las Vegas, extended to Dallas/Forth
April 7, 2013
(brand of Cross Telephone) commercially launched

its first phase of 4G LTE service including portions of
the Muskogee and Pittsburg counties in Eastern
Oklahoma on November 9th, 2012. Strata Networks
launched commercial service on November 19, 2012.
Thumb Cellular commercially launched 700 MHz
LTE service in December 2012.
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
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 announced it would shut
down its HSPA+ wireless network at end June 2012
after which it will only offer the LTE service.
AT&T Mobility commercially launched LTE service

on September 18, 2011 in 700 MHz (band 17) in
Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.
The LTE network is now live in 176 markets (April 6,
2013 company website) and is planned to cover 300
million people by end 2014. AT&T plans to close its
GSM network by 2017 latest, and intends to re-farm
the spectrum to support its 3G and 4G networks. In
January 2013 AT&T announced plans to pay Verizon
Wireless the sum of US$ 1.9 billion for 700 MHz B
band spectrum covering 42 million people in 18
states, plus AWS spectrum in markets including
Phoenix, Los Angeles, Fresno, and Portland. All of
this spectrum will be used for LTE. The deal could be
completed in 2H 2013 and is subject to regulatory
approval. VoLTE will be deployed by end 2013.
C Spire Wireless holds 700 MHz band 12 spectrum

for most of Mississippi, Tennessee and Alabama and
commercially launched LTE service on September
10, 2012 in McComb, Brookhaven, Meridian and
Greenville. Due to limited device support for band 12,
C Spire currently uses only band 25 (1850 1915 /
1930 - 1995 MHz) for LTE and service is available in
36 markets (March 1, 2013 company website).
CenturyLink plans to deploy LTE in 700 MHz, after
spending USD 149 million in the 700 MHz auction on
69 A and B block concessions..
T-Mobile USA commercially launched LTE service

on March 26, 2013 in AWS spectrum. The target is to
reach 100 millions population coverage by mid-2013,
and 200 millions by end of 2013. Service is available
at launch in Baltimore, Houston, Kansas City, Las
Vegas, Phoenix, San Jose, and Washington, D.C.
Enhanced
Telecommunications
Corporation
(ETC) is deploying an LTE network in Indiana.
Leap Wireless' Cricket subsidiary commercially
launched LTE on December 21, 2011 in Tucson in
AWS spectrum. Coverage for Las Vegas was
announced in October 2012. Cricket planned to cover
21 million POPs by end 2012, and introduce several
LTE smartphones. Leap Wireless signed a 5-year
wholesale agreement with Clearwire for capacity offload.
MiSpot, a new
subsidiary of Agri-Valley
Communication, commercially launched 700 MHz
LTE service on March 14, 2013 to residents and
small businesses in rural communities in 37 counties
in northern and central Michigan.
Aircell aims to use LTE to boost its in-flight network
capacity if sufficient spectrum is obtained.
CDMA operator Alaska Communications (ACS)

commercially launched 4G/LTE service in AWS
spectrum on October 12, 2012 in Anchorage,
Fairbanks and Juneau. Initial devices included
Samsung Galaxy SIII, Galaxy Note, and the
BandLuxe 4G LTE Wireless Router.
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
Clearwire Corp. is deploying LTE TDD in 2496

2690 MHz (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
April 7, 2013
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
with 2,000 LTE TDD sites operating by June 2013, at
which time VoLTE will also be supported.
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 (20002020 MHz and 2180-2200 MHz). This spectrum is
now known as AWS-4. FCC granted formal approval
to DISH on December 11, 2012 subject to specificed
power level restrictions to avoid interference to the
adjacent AWS-H spectrum which is scheduled to be
auctioned. AWS-H comprises 1915 1920 MHz
(uplink) and 1995 2000 MHz (downlink), which is
adjacent to PCS-G spectrum occupied by Sprint.
Sprint commercially launched LTE FDD service on

July 15, 2012 in 10 MHz of existing 1900 MHz
spectrum (band 25) in 15 cities: Atlanta, Athens,
Calhoun, Carrollton, Newnan and Rome, Ga.; Dallas,
Fort Worth, Granbury-Hood County, Houston,
Huntsville, San Antonio and Waco, Texas; and St.
Joseph and Kansas City, Mo.. Initial smartphones
offered include HTC EVO 4G LTE, Galaxy Nexus,
LG Viper 4G LTE, and Samsung Galaxy SIII. The
Sierra Wireless 4G LTE Tri-Fi Hotspot is also
offered. Sprint plans to use 2.5 GHz in future and also
use 800 MHz (ESMR spectrum) by moving iDEN
customers onto its CDMA PTT service. Sprint
confirmed LTE coverage served 58 markets (midMarch 2013, company website) and plans to have
250 million LTE pops coverage by end 2013 and
continue fill in of smaller markets with LTE from early
2014. Sprint said it would not sell WiMAX service
after 2012 and is deploying LTE Advanced
technology in 800 MHz in 2013 using 3GPP Release
10 in a 10 x 10 configuration.
In March 2012 the FCC issued a Notice of Proposed

Rulemaking for stand-alone terrestrial services using
2 GHz MSS spectrum. If the waiver is allowed, LTE
Advanced service is not anticipated before 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 filed
for bankruptcy in May 2012 in order to try to continue
operations, and has control over its Chapter 11 status
as the company continues its reorganization efforts.
Softbank (Japan) plans to buy 70% of Sprint Nextel

for $20.1bn, subject to shareholders and regulators
approval, and could be completed by mid-2013.
Shenandoah Telecommunications (Shentel) is an
affiliate of Sprint Nextel having access to the latters
800 and 1900 MHz spectrum in return for building a
compatible LTE network. Shentel launched
commercial LTE service on November 23, 2012 in
Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia and West Virginia.
Rural CDMA operator Mosaic Telecom (NW

Wisconsin) holds 700 MHz and AWS spectrum and
launched commercial LTE service in July 2011.
NetAmerica Alliance LLC aims to help bring LTE
mobile broadband services to 700 MHz and AWS
spectrum holders for consumers and businesses in
smaller markets and rural areas. 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
As part of a $32.1 million stimulus grant, Commnet

Wireless, LLC (subsidiary of Atlantic Tele-Network
Inc.) 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
April 7, 2013
Network operators Etex Telephone Cooperative,

Panhandle Telephone Cooperative, Peoples
Telephone Cooperative, and S&T Telephone
Cooperative/Communications are 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.
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. 30
new markets were activated on November 5, 2012.
By end of 2012, 58% of its customer base were
covered by LTE, planned to rise to 87% by end 2013.
VTel Wireless is deploying an LTE network in rural
Vermont, to be completed by December 2013.
West Central Wireless, subsidiary of Central Texas
Telephone Cooperative, is deploying an LTE network.
The company also uses LTE for fixed wireless
services in the 700 MHz band, though this is not used
by its mobile subscribers, but will be offered on a
wholesale basis to other carriers.
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.
US
regional
operator
Penasco
Valley
Telecommunications (PVT) is deploying an LTE
network in the states of New Mexico and Texas,
which will operate under the Fuego Wireless brand.
CDMA operator nTelos Wireless, which serves
Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Virginia,
and West Virginia is deploying an LTE network
targeting service launch by end 2013 in selected
markets. The company said devices will support
bands 2, 4 and 25.
O2 Secure Wireless, an Internet communications

company, 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 unserved markets in Florida, Kentucky, Mississippi,
Alabama, North Carolina, and South Carolina.
On January 25, 2011 the FCC mandated LTE for first

responders (public safety communications).
Mandating of a single technology by the FCC is
unprecedented. 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.
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.
WiMAX operator SpeedConnect is deploying
infrastructure in Michigan that includes LTE and
WiMAX technologies.
The City of Charlotte Council awarded a contract in

October 2011 for an LTE Public Safety Network in the
dedicated Public Safety 700 MHz band.
Texas Energy Network (TEN) is deploying an LTE

network, initially targeting the oil and gas industries
beginning with the Eagle Ford Shale region.
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
United Wireless has added LTE to its CDMA

network and deployed its LTE network in 700 MHz
band 12 spectrum, planning to launch when sufficient
devices for this band are available.
April 7, 2013
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".
theoretical max speeds of up to 100 Mbps. In smaller

LTE markets that have 2 x 10MHz (2600 MHz), the
LG Optimus G can reach theoretical max speeds of
up to 75Mbps. The LG Optimus G went on sale
November 13, 2012.
Bell Mobility commercially launched LTE in Toronto,
Mississauga, Hamilton, Kitchener-Waterloo and
Guelph on September 14, 2011 and now covers 67%
of the population (BCE 2012 Full Year Results).
Customers outside LTE coverage fallback to DCHSPA+ or HSPA+.
PUBLIC SAFETY Band 14 (788-798/758-768 MHz)
Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department

(LVMPD) trialling LTE in band 14.
Miami-Dade police trialling LTE in band 14
EastLink simultaneously commercially launched

HSPA+ and LTE services in 2100 MHz spectrum
(AWS) on February 15, 2013.
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)
TELUS launched commercial LTE service on

February 10, 2012 and coverage has now reached
nearly 70% of the population (March 2013).
MTS Allstream commercially launched LTE service
on September 25, 2012 commencing in Manitoba.
LTE service is available in Winnipeg and Brandon.
SaskTel launched commercial LTE service in 2100
MHz (AWS) spectrum on January 31, 2013 in Regina,
Saskatoon, Clavet, Dundurn, Langham, Lumsden,
Martensville, Osler, Pense, Vanscoy, Warman, and
White City. In 2013 the LTE network will be extended
to Dalmeny, Balgonie, Estevan, Moose Jaw, North
Battleford, Prince Albert, Swift Current, Weyburn and
Yorkton. Future phases are dependent on SaskTel
being successful in the 700 MHz auction expected in
November 2013. VoLTE will be deployed in 2013.
Sasktel has also awarded a trial contract using LTE
TDD to help determine the feasibility of wireless
broadband and voice services for customers in
predominantly rural locations. The trial is being
conducted in rural locations in Saskatchewan and
runs from December 2012 until August 2013.
The FCC has adopted revised rules to enable

Wireless Communications Service (WCS) licensees'
to use up to 30 MHz of underutilized 2.3 GHz
spectrum for wireless broadband services. 20 MHz
may be used for mobile broadband, leaving 10 MHz
for fixed broadband, which in future may be used as a
downlink path for mobile broadband users.
Canada
Rogers
Wireless
launched
Canadas
first
commercial LTE service on July 7, 2011 in Ottawa.
Coverage reached 60% of population (October 1,
2012) and is planned to cover 95 markets in 2103. On
September 19, 2012 Rogers announced the 2600
MHz enabled version of the LG Optimus G LTE
smartphone will be exclusively available from Rogers.
The 2600 MHz band is little used in Canada, and is
facilitated by Rogers and Bell in their partnership
company Inukshuk Wireless which built a network
using pre-WiMAX technology but was later shelved.
Rogers statement: The Rogers LTE 2600 MHz
bandwidth is in all markets where we offer LTE AWS
2100. In most markets where 2 x 20MHz (2600 MHz)
is available, the LG Optimus G is capable of
Wind Mobile confirmed an LTE trial in February

2011.
Videotron plans to deploy LTE.
Rural WiMAX operator Xplornet Communications
announced on December 8, 2011 completion of LTE
TDD tests in 2.6 GHz and 3.5 GHz bands. The trials
demonstrated a seamless LTE TDD option over
April 7, 2013
existing WiMAX infrastructure, offering a smooth

migration path from WiMAX to LTE TDD. The 3.5
GHz trial used the same band that Xplornet uses for
WiMAX. The current network has 380 tower sites
(early 2013). The 2.6 GHz trial was enabled by a
development license from regulator Industry Canada.
Belize
Industry Canada is planning to auction 700 MHz

(aligning with the US band plan) on November 19,
2013 and auction 2.6 GHz spectrum within a year of
the 700 MHz auction.
Entel Movil launched the countrys first commercial

LTE service on December 16, 2012 in La Paz,
Cochabamba and Santa Cruz in 700 MHz and plans
LTE service in all 337 municipalities by mid-2014.
Antigua and Barbuda

Digicel launched commercial 4G LTE services using
700 MHz (band 17) on November 6, 2012. LTE
covers 70% of the population (January 2013).
Regulator
Telecommunications
and
Transport
Supervising and Regulating Authorities (ATT) is
intending to auction spectrum in 2013, which is
expected to include blocks in 700 MHz, 900 MHz,
1.7/2.1 GHz (AWS), 1.9 GHz & 2.6 GHz bands.
Argentina
Brazil
Telefonica Movistar completed lab trials of LTE in

March 2010, and a field trial in 2010 in Buenos Aires,
in AWS spectrum.
The auction of 2.6 GHz LTE spectrum by regulator

Anatel 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,
regulator 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 for Sao Paulo state.
BTL (DigiCell) is deploying an LTE upgrade to its

GSM network.
Bolivia
Personal tested LTE in Puerto Madero (June 2010),

and in December 2010 announced a trial in Cordoba.
Regulator SECOM announced on September 5, 2012
it would allocate to state-owned operator Arsat all the
850 MHz and 1900 MHz spectrum returned by
Movistar when parent Telefonica bought some of the
assets of former operator Movicom from Bell South.
According to reports, spectrum in the AWS band will
be auctioned in 2013 for LTE network deployments.
Sky Brasil Servicos commercially launched 2.6 GHz

LTE TDD (band 38) in Brasilia on December 13, 2011
Bahamas
Sunrise changed its name to On Telecomunicacoes

and commercially launched 2.6 GHz LTE TDD
service in band 38 in Itatiba, Louveira, Valinhos and
Vinhedo in March 2013. This will serve as a test bed
for possible expansion to all of Sao Paulo state.
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority

(URCA) on August 13, 2012 awarded a 15 years 700
MHz license (24 MHz) to BTC. The announcement
followed evaluation of 5 license applications, two of
which were rejected as failing the minimum criteria,
one application is pending approvals from other
business investment and licensing bodies. The new
license has coverage obligations.
BTC has
exclusivity in mobile services to April 2014 and plans
LTE network rollout from January 2013, with services
commencing within a few months.
Claro commercially launched LTE FDD service on

December 13, 2012 in Recife, Campos do Jordao,
Buzios and Parat, using 2.6 GHz spectrum. Service
was subsequently launched in Curitiba on January
29, 2013 and Porto Alegre on March 7, 2013.
Vivo is deploying an LTE network for commercial
launch in April 2013.
Cable TV operator Cable Bahamas Limited (CBL) is

also expected to receive a license.
TIM Brasil has announced its system suppliers.
10
April 7, 2013
TIM and Oi announced on January 18, 2013 plans to

share LTE infrastructure in the cities hosting the FIFA
Confederations Cup football matches - Belo
Horizonte, Brasilia, Fortaleza, Recife, Rio de Janeiro
and Salvador. The tournament begins in June 2013.
include an obligation to roll out nationwide within 12

months. The other incumbents, Nextel and VTR, did
not submit bids.
Claro has trialled LTE and in September 2012
confirmed plans to commercially launch LTE in early
2013. A 100-user trial has opened in Santiago.
Oi concluded LTE trials beginning June 2011,

reported to be using 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz. Oi
indicated that LTE services in Rio de Janeiro would
be offered on a geographically restricted basis from
December 2012 and will become commercially
available in April 2013 in the FIFA Confederations
Cup football match host cities.
Entel PCS completed an LTE trial at the Universidad

de Chile and has selected its infrastructure system
vendor and is planning commercial launch in 2013.
Movistar is deploying a commercial LTE network.
The Sao Paulo military police force is testing LTE

in 700 MHz, 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
Ministrios, and Communications Center and the
Army Electronic Warfare (CCOMGEX)
CPqD tested LTE in 450 MHz reportedly
Campinas. Tests were also made using 2.6 GHz.
Subtel confirmed adoption of the APT700 band plan

for 700 MHz (FDD) which is planned to be auctioned
for LTE deployments in mid-2013.
Colombia
UNE-EPM launched commercial LTE service on June
14, 2012 in 2.6 GHz spectrum in Bogot and
Medelln, gaining 40,000 subscriptions by end 2012.
in
The Ministry of ICT (MinTIC) December 29, 2011

invited expressions of interest to participate in an
auction of Band IV (AWS), Band II (PCS1900) and
Band VII (2.6 GHz) for 4G/LTE use. The auction was
delayed and is expected to be start on June 26, 2013.
10 companies confirmed interest in bidding, local as
well as foreign operators. Tigo intends to participate
and confirmed plans to deploy a commercial LTE
network. Nextel and Avantel are amongst the new
players expressing interest in the auctions. MinTIC
plans to auction for 4G/LTE:
Algar Telecom (CTBC) is conducting LTE trials in

850 MHz and 1800 MHz. Regulatory approval is
needed for commercial services in these frequencies.
Anatel auctioned 15 lots of spectrum sub-bands on
December 6, 2011 for USD 132.7 million. 39 lots
were not auctioned, including 29 for WiMAX. TIM,
Oi and Sercomtel bought spectrum in the 1800 MHz
band. Claro bought spectrum in the 800 MHz band.
Discussions are planned on use of 700 MHz after
digital TV switchover (2016). Anatel has adopted the
APT700 band thus aligning with other countries in the
region including Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia,
Costa Rica, Ecuador, Mexico, Panama and Uruguay.
Anatel has put the matter to a public consultation
which lasts for 45 days from February 21, 2013 after
which a public hearing will be held.
3 blocks of 30 MHz each in the AWS

spectrum; one block reserved for new players
3 blocks of 30 MHz and 1 block of 40 MHz in
2.6 GHz spectrum; 1 block reserved for new
players
5 MHz of 3G/1.9 GHz will also be offered
3.5 GHz spectrum may be auctioned later.
Millicom International Cellular SA (parent of Tigo) is

discussing a merger of Tigo with UNE-EPM.
Chile
Regulator ANE has adopted the APT700 band plan.
It was announced by regulator Subtel in July 2012

that Movistar, Entel and Claro had each won 2 x 20
MHz spectrum in the 2.6 GHz auction. Conditions
Costa Rica
Claro, ICE & Movistar are interested to deploy LTE.
11
April 7, 2013
Pan Latin American WiMAX operator IBW

International, with operations in Costa Rica, El
Salvador, Guatemala, and Nicaragua is planning to
migrate to 2.3 GHz LTE TDD technology.
With this decision, Ecuador continues taking concrete

steps leading to the introduction of new technologies
to promote broadband access. (This information was
kindly provided to GSA by CONATEL August 2012).
Dominican Republic
In October 2012 CONATEL announced its adoption

of the APT700 band plan.
Orange Dominicana launched commercial LTE

service in Santo Domingo on July 9, 2012, using
1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800).
State-owned operator CNT has been allocated 30

MHz in the 700 MHz band and 40 MHz in the
1700/2100 MHz (AWS) band for its LTE network and
plans to launch commercial service by June 2013.
This allocation has the additional objective to
encourage the deployment of telecommunications
networks with new technologies such as LTE
standard, thereby facilitating the introduction of
mobile broadband services, whose benefits have an
impact on the technical, social and economic issues.
Tricom commercially launched LTE using 1900 MHz

(band 2) spectrum on March 18, 2013. The network
initially covers the National District, metropolitan zone
of Santiago and other principal cities.
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) organized
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.
At the same time, CONATEL ordered the formation of

an Interagency Commission, in order to define the
conditions and demands that the public operator
should comply with for use of authorized frequency
blocks, which need to be consistent with the National
Broadband Plan and Good Living Plan.
CONATEL has also requested the Interagency
Commission to present alternatives for allocating
radio spectrum to private operators (established or
incoming) in the bands that are currently allocated in
the National Frequency Plan for IMT services.
El Salvador
CONATEL advised GSA about several LTE-focused

events and trials held or planned in Ecuador. With
LTE comes the opportunity to deploy networks and
services, in some areas for the first time. The
government has developed the National Broadband
Plan, whose main objective is to provide Internet
services in underserved areas and technologically
isolated amongst the main goals, to achieve by 2017
at least 75% of Ecuador's population with access to
broadband. To help fulfill these goals and objectives,
CONATEL approved the re-allocation of frequency
bands for the introduction of IMT systems as follows:
700 MHz band: 90 MHz
AWS band: 120 MHz
2.5/2.6 GHz band: 190 MHz
Pan Latin American WiMAX() operator IBW

International, operating in Costa Rica, El Salvador,
Guatemala, and Nicaragua, is planning to migrate its
operations to 2.3 GHz LTE TDD technology.
Guatemala
Regulator SIT said suitable bands for LTE include
800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, AWS, and 2.1 GHz.
Pan Latin American WiMAX operator IBW
Guatemala, and Nicaragua is planning to migrate its
Jamaica
Claro is reported to be deploying an LTE system.
12
April 7, 2013
Digicel has agreed to acquire the company from

America Movil. Further announcements are awaited.
initially in Asuncion and surrounding areas. Network

expansion depends on access to more spectrum.
Regulator CONATEL plans to auction AWS spectrum.
Mexico
Vox (Copaco) launched commercial LTE service in
AWS spectrum on February 18, 2013. Initially Vox
launched service using 109 sites of which 89 served
Asuncion and the metro area, 14 were in Ciudad del
Este, 5 in Encarnacin and 1 in Pilar. A further 100
sites are planned for activation in the coming months.
On September 21, 2012 the regulator COFETEL

confirmed its adoption of the APT band plan for 700
MHz digital dividend spectrum. GSA welcomes this
important development which provided a strong
signal to the Latin American region - comment: This
clearly shows how critical regulators view
international harmonization and spectrum efficiency
as being. Countries need to move forward in a
concerted and harmonized way to meet the
requirements on economies of scale for devices and
capacity for mobile broadband.
Tigo is planning to deploy LTE in 2.6 GHz spectrum

acquired from Grupo Clarin.
Peru
Movistar has trialled LTE. Ministerio de Transporte y
Comunicaciones del Per is expected to auction 2
blocks of AWS spectrum for LTE in 1H 2013.
Telefnica commercially launched LTE in AWS

spectrum on October 15, 2012 in Ciudad de Mxico,
and on October 30 in Guadalajara and Monterrey.
Puerto Rico
Telefnica and Iusacell agreed a network sharing
arrangement.
AT&T Puerto Rico launched commercial LTE service

in 700 MHz on November 20, 2011 in San Juan, and
in Guayama, San German and Yauco in 2012. AT&T
also owns 2.6 GHz spectrum.
Telcel commercially launched LTE in AWS spectrum

for post-paid customers on November 6, 2012 in
Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Queretaro,
Puebla, Ciudad Juarez, Tijuana, Hermosillo and
Merida, planning to reach 26 markets by Q1 2013.
Claro commercially launched 700 MHz LTE service

on November 24, 2011 and one year later offered
service for dongle, smartphone and tablet users.
The government plans to auction 700 MHz and 2.6

GHz spectrum. In August 2012 the government said it
would not renew spectrum held in the 2.5/2.6 GHz
band which would be recalled on expiry.
CDMA operator Open Mobile launched 700 MHz

commercial LTE service on April 19, 2012.
Sprint Nextel announced commercial launch on
December 18, 2012 in 1900 MHz spectrum.
Nicaragua
Pan Latin American WiMAX() operator IBW
Guatemala, and Nicaragua is planning to migrate its
T Mobile USA is deploying LTE for launch in 2013.

Aeronet Wireless Broadband is deploying a LTE
TDD network for backbone and customer access
using leased 2.6 GHz spectrum.
Panama
Turks & Caicos Islands
Cable and Wireless Panama is planning to deploy an
LTE network and has identified a network partner.
In February 2013 Digicel (700 MHz Lower B and C)

and Islandcom (700 MHz Upper C) received licences
to deploy commercial LTE networks. LIME did not win
a licence. Digicel plans 75% population coverage
within 18 months and 98% within 30 months.
Paraguay
Personal commercially launched LTE service in
refarmed 1900 MHz spectrum on February 8, 2013,
13
April 7, 2013
Uruguay
Digitel has announced plans to use part of its 1800

MHz spectrum to launch LTE1800-based service.
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 regulators decision,
and has announced plans for nationwide deployment.
Movilnet currently uses band 2 for HSPA and has

been testing LTE.
WiMAX operator Movilmax has a nationwide
license with 48 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum and
announced the company is migrating to LTE.
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.
On March 25, 2013 Conatel launched a consultation

concerning 2.6 GHz spectrum which could be used
for LTE. Comments are required by April 9, 2013.
In March 2013 regulator URSEC announced that an

award of spectrum had been made to the 3
incumbent mobile operators following a tender
process for 900 MHz, 1900 MHz and AWS spectrum.
No bids were made for 900 MHz spectrum.
Asia Pacific and Oceania

Afghanistan
Movistar won 4 blocks of 1900 MHz spectrum.
Etisalat Afghanistan claims completion of an LTE

trial. The regulatory position is unclear.
Claro won 2 blocks of 1900 MHz and 2 blocks of

AWS spectrum.
Australia
Antel did not take part in the auction and had to pay
for reserved spectrum of 1 block in 900 MHz and 4
blocks of AWS.
All three mobile operators are deploying LTE1800.

Telstra commercially launched LTE1800 service on
September 27, 2011 in capital city CBDs (central
business districts) and more than 30 regional and
metropolitan centers. The NextG network upgrade
uses Telstras existing 1800 MHz spectrum refarmed
to deliver LTE to areas where traffic demand is most
concentrated and is integrated with Telstras 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.
Telstra announced activation of its 1,000th LTE base
station in May 2012. On November 1, 2012 Telstra
reported LTE service availability in 100 major capitals
and regional centers, 40% LTE population coverage
(rising to 66% by June 2013), 820,000 4G
subscriptions at October 2012, and over 100,000
iPhone 5s connected in the previous 4 weeks.
Claro intends to deploy a commercial LTE network in

its newly-acquired AWS spectrum.
Movistar is committed to deploy an LTE network.
Wireless broadband company Dedicado is planning
to invest US$ 5 million in deployment of 4Motion
network using WiMAX and LTE in 3.5 GHz.
Venezuela
Regulator Conatel issued an invitation for the
allocation of 35 MHz paired spectrum bands:
1930-1940 MHz paired with 1850-1860 MHz (band 2)
Applications were required by June 6, 2012.
Movilnet, Movistar, Digitel responded. Digitel was
awarded 30 MHz of spectrum in 1800 MHz and 1900
MHz. Movilnet and Movistar each received 20 MHz
of extra spectrum in those bands
In February 2013 Telstra announced plans to deploy

LTE in re-farmed 900 MHz spectrum some sites are
running already - and is currently trialling LTE
Advanced technologies.
14
April 7, 2013
Optus conducted an LTE1800 trial for 1,000+ users

in Newcastle and Hunter Valley areas of New South
Wales. Commercial LTE service launch for small
business, enterprise and government customers in
Sydney and Perth was confirmed on July 31, 2012
using LTE1800, before a wider launch on September
4, 2012. The Optus 4G (LTE1800) network now
covers areas of Adelaide, Sydney, Perth, Newcastle,
Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast. Optus
acquired Vivid Wireless giving access to 98 MHz of
2.3 GHz spectrum. Optus has opened its trial network
for LTE TDD at the Optus Campus in Macquarie Park
and St Marys in western Sydney. The first public
demonstration achieved peak site throughput speeds
over 200 Mbps and a consistent per-user range
between 25 Mbps and 87 Mbps. In May 2012 Optus
and Vodafone announced a major site sharing
roaming deal, subject to ACCC approval.
packages are available from *SkyMesh, iiNet, and

Activ8Me (source: NBN Co provided to GSA)
EnergyAustralias 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 Australias 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, expected in the 2013 timeframe.
An auction by ACMA of 700 MHz APT700 digital
dividend and 2.6 GHz spectrum for use from January
1, 2015 will begin on April 23, 2013. See ACMA page
http://www.acma.gov.au/WEB/STANDARD/pc=PC_312315
Vodafone Hutchison Australia (VHA) confirmed

results of its first LTE1800 trial in Q4 2010 in
Newcastle, NSW using 10 MHz of 1800 MHz. A
second trial in Sydney is underway. VHA will use 20
MHz of 1800 MHz (LTE1800) for commercial
services. Upgrading of the network (around 5,800 2G
and 3G base station sites) is underway and
commercial LTE1800 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
licences for 1800 MHz spectrum, to create contiguous
blocks of spectrum in NSW, Victoria and South
Australia, had been approved by the Australian
Communications and Media Authority (ACMA).
ACMA is consulting on proposals for prioritizing more

spectrum for mobile broadband including changing
the status of the 3.4 3.6 GHz band to primary from
secondary, and is suitable for LTE. ACMA is also
evaluating the merits of using the 400 MHz band for
interoperable government wireless communications.
Bangladesh
The Ministry of Post and Telecommunications has
published a draft proposal for awarding 6 combined
3G and LTE licences; 50 MHz of 1900 MHz spectrum
in five lots of 10 MHz paired is being made available.
www.mopt.gov.bd/all%20backup/Draft_3G_4G_LTE_Guid
eline.pdf
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
Bhutan
Bhutan Telecom is deploying a network upgrade that
includes LTE1800 initially for the capital, Thimpu.
Brunei
Regulator AITI is consulting on releasing spectrum in
the 1800 MHz band suitable for LTE deployments.
Comments were required by December 14, 2012.
China
China Mobile built its TD-SCDMA network so that
sites and other elements are reusable for LTE TDD.
15
April 7, 2013
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. The second phase of trials involved 13
cities and 7 suppliers and trial LTE TDD networks
have recently been activated in 2 new cities Hangzhou and Wenzhou in Zhejiang province. China
Mobile plans to have 200,000 LTE TDD base sites
covering more than 100 cities by end 2013.
Commercial service launch is anticipated in 20132014 timeframe. 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 will initially procure 1.24 million TD-LTE
terminal devices, made up of 800,000 portable Mi-Fi
hotspots, 320,000 indoor CPE units and 120,000
dongles, according to press reports. China Mobile
expects LTE TDD smartphones to be launched in Q3
2013.
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
to be from November 2011 as advised to us 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 launched commercial LTE service in 2.6 GHz
spectrum on April 25, 2012. Its Mobile (+Wi-Fi)
broadband service Netvigator Everywhere is
supported by territory-wide 42Mbps DC-HSPA+
service integrated with the companys 100 Mbps WiFi (almost 10,000 hotspots) in an auto-connect/ traffic
off-load arrangement. LTE using 1800 MHz
(LTE1800) was brought into commercial service in
September 2012. From January 22, LTE coverage
will be expanded to include the major MTR lines (the
Hong Kong underground train network).
During ITU Telecom World, Dubai, October, 2012 it

was announced that China's Ministry of Industry and
Information Technology MIIT has decided to allocate
2.6GHz (band 41 as used by Sprint, USA) ranging
from 2500-2690 MHz i.e. the entire band of 190 MHz
for the deployment and application of LTE TDD. This
announcement made at the most authoritative
meeting offered great confidence in the development
of LTE TDD to the global industry and market.
Hutchison 3 HK is deploying a combined LTE FDD

and TDD network and in the first phase launched its
commercial LTE FDD service using 2.6 GHz
spectrum on May 2, 2012. LTE using 1800 MHz
(LTE1800) was brought into commercial service in
October 2012. The LTE TDD mode is expected to
enter service in 2013.
According to reports, MIIT also announced in October

2012 that 60 MHz in each of the 1800 MHz and 2100
MHz bands, i.e. a total of 120 MHz, will be allocated
for LTE FDD FDD-LTE.
SmarTone announced commercial LTE1800 launch

on August 28, 2012 with service available to selected
customers by invitation, then generally available to
customers on September 11. The company confirmed
that LTE coverage would be available at the first MTR
underground station (at Admiralty) on October 15,
2012. Rollout across all MTR stations and adjoining
tunnels is expected to be completed in early 2013.
China Telecom plans to launch an LTE service,

expected in 2013, which will be integrated with CDMA
systems in 17 provinces.
LTE deployment timescales of China Unicom, which
is testing FDD, are unclear at this time.
On February 6, 2012 regulator OFCA 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.
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+
16
April 7, 2013
China Mobile HK launched commercial LTE FDD

services in 2.6 GHz on April 25, 2012 and
commercially launched 2.3 GHz LTE TDD in
December 2012. The worlds 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.
the company (according to reports, as a first step to

taking full ownership in 2014). Bharti Airtel has BWA
licences 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 Indias first LTE service (TDD) in Kolkata.
Commercial LTE service opened in Bangalore on
May 7, 2012 then Pune on October 18, 2012. Service
opened in Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula in
March 2013. Airtel is considering expansion to New
Delhi and Mumbai with spectrum acquired from the
Qualcomm Asia Pacific Indian BWA operation.
OFCA is auctioning spectrum in the 2.6 GHz range,

offering five blocks of 2 x 5 MHz in the 2515 2540
MHz and 2635 2660 MHz range. The auction
involved 5 bidders (China Mobile Hong Kong, China
Unicom (Hong Kong), CSL Limited, Genius Brand,
and SmarTone), beginning on March 18, 2013 and
ending on March 19, 29013 after 18 rounds of
bidding. China Unicom failed to gain any spectrum.
Aircel won BWA spectrum in eight circles and plans

to commercially launch LTE TDD service in 2013,
initially in Chennai and Tamilnadu.
Guam
IT&E announced launch of LTE commercial services
on June 28, 2012 initially for business only, using
700 MHz, extended to other users in early July 2012
as 4G LTE Wireless Data Network for the Home.
Infotel Broadband was the only pan-India winner,

and was later bought by Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL).
Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) is deploying an LTE
TDD network for commercial launch in 2013. RIL
plans to trial VoLTE.
DoCoMo Pacific announced launch of LTE

commercial services in 700 MHz on October 4, 2012.
BSNL had acquired BWA spectrum licences in the

2.6 GHz band in 22 circles for $1.6 billion. BSNL and
MTNL are studying introducing LTE TDD possibly in
addition to current WiMAX deployments.
iConnect commercially launched LTE service using

700 MHz spectrum on March 20, 2013.
India
Videocon is deploying a commercial LTE1800

network in 6 circles targeting service launch 2H 2013.
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.
It was announced in March 2013 that SSTL bidding

under the name of MTS had secured new (formerly
CDMA) 800 MHz spectrum and technology neutral
licences in 8 circles following a recent auction. The
company is considering deploying LTE technology.
Tikona Digital Networks won spectrum in 5 circles

and is committed to deploy LTE TDD. Commercial
launch is expected in 2H 2013.
Regulator TRAI is consulting on 700 MHz spectrum

and IMT-Advanced (incl. LTE Advanced) systems.
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 started trials. In May 2012 it was
announced that Bharti Airtel will buy 49% of the
Qualcomm license (Qualcomm Asia Pacific QAP),
comprising the 26% owned by Global Holding
Corporation and Tulip Telecom, plus a further 23% of
Indonesia
Telkomsel, XL Axiata, and Indosat have been
trialling LTE and plan to deploy networks. Indosat
trialled LTE in 2.6 GHz in 2010 and in October 2011
announced completion of an LTE1800 trial in 10 MHz
bandwidth in Surabaya and Denpasar in Bali. Indosat
plans to deploy LTE in re-farmed 1800 MHz
17
April 7, 2013
spectrum. Some operators have called for new

spectrum in the 700 MHz to be allocated for LTE
following an analog to digital TV broadcast migration.
cover 99% of population of 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 affiliated
company Wireless City Planning which followed a
pre-commercial pilot service starting on November 1,
2011 and which owns the operating license. The
coverage area includes Sapporo, Saitama, Chiba,
Tokyo, Yokohama, Kawasaki, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe,
Fukuoka, Fukuoka City, Kitakyushu City and covers
30 cities. The first device offered was the "ULTRA
WiFi 4G SoftBank 101SI portable router. A
smartphone was introduced in October 2012. The
network is deployed in 20 MHz of 2.5 GHz spectrum
(band 41) bought from Willcom (PHS operator) and
had 997,200 subscribers as of February 2013. By
October 31, 2012 over 17,000 eNodeBs deployed.
CDMA operator Bakrie Telecom plans to introduce

LTE following a trial phase.
Regulator SDPPI is consulting on the use of 2300
2360 MHz spectrum (part of Band 40) for BWA
services, which could lead to licences being awarded.
PT Indosat Mega Media (IM2), subsidiary of PT
Indosat Tbk (ISAT), selected LTE TDD technology in
2.3 GHz spectrum won in an auction for a BWA
license in 2009, planning commercial service in 2013.
The government is scheduled to complete regulations
for 4G introduction including LTE by the end of 2013.
Japan
Softbank Mobile owns licences to operate mobile

systems in 2.1GHz FDD (band 1), 1.5 GHz (band 11)
and 900 MHz (band 8), and commercially launched
its LTE FDD service in band 1 on September 21,
2012 at the same time as introducing the iPhone 5.
The LTE FDD service is considered by GSA to be a
separate network and business from the LTE TDD
deployment mentioned earlier.
NTT DoCoMo launched Japans first commercial LTE

system on December 24, 2010 in 2.1 GHz spectrum
under the Xi brand, in Tokyo, Nagoya and Osaka.
DoCoMo aims to cover 98% of population with LTE
by March 2015 and is targeting 30 million LTE
subscriptions by this date. DoCoMo announced that 7
million LTE subscribers was passed during December
2012 i.e. in less than 2 years since LTE service
launch and on February 19, 2013 announced that its
LTE customer base had passed 10 million mark,
having doubled in the previous 6 months. NTT
DoCoMo has also launched LTE in 1.5 GHz (band
21) and plans to begin installing APT700 FDD
compatible base stations in readiness for when this
band is allowed for commercial LTE use in 2015.
Softbank Corp. will acquire domestic rival eAccess

Ltd. through a stock swap deal valued at $2.3 billion,
which will provide Softbank not only with more
subscribers, but additional radio spectrum (band 9)
which e-Access currently uses for its services.
Softbank has announced plans to buy 70% of Sprint
Nextel (USA) for $20.1 billion. The deal requires the
approval of shareholders and regulators, and could
be completed by mid-2013.
KDDI launched commercial LTE service on

September 21, 2012 and continues to operate its 800
MHz CDMA network for voice traffic. The LTE service
was launched in 2.1 GHz spectrum (band 1) to align
with the LTE band support offered by the iPhone 5,
which KDDI also introduced on the same day. Other
phones will use 2.1 GHz later, and 800/1500 MHz
spectrum will also be used for deployments in future.
Softbank has formed a partnership with Thailand's

state-owned operator TOT, which will focus on joint
development of a 2.3 GHz LTE TDD network using
TOT's allocation of 64 MHz bandwidth. It is likely that
the LTE network will be used for mobile backhaul for
Wi-Fi access points and mobile cell sites.
eAccess launched commercial LTE service using 1.7

GHz on March 15, 2012 (this is band 9, which is
within LTE1800 band 3. A band 9 device will not work
on all band 3 networks). Coverage is scheduled to
NTT DoCoMo, KDDI and eAccess were granted 700

MHz spectrum according to the APT700 FDD band
plan in June 2012 for LTE deployments, which can be
brought into use from early 2015. It is understood that
18
April 7, 2013
1800 MHz spectrum may be allocated for LTE

services in Japan in future.
WiMAX operator Packet One Networks P1

(Malaysia) is upgrading its 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 and by end 2012 had 2,300
WiMAX sites, 50% are LTE TDD ready. P1 expects
to have 4,0005,000 LTE TDD sites by 2015.
Kiribati
Telecom Services Kiribati Ltd (TSKL) is deploying
a commercial LTE network using 700 MHz spectrum.
Laos
WiMAX operator Asiaspace has confirmed its plan

to launch LTE TDD in 2.3 GHz in 2013.
On May 15, 2012 the Ministry of Post and

Telecommunication awarded a license to Beeline
Lao to deploy LTE. Testing is currently underway in
Vientiane using 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum.
Coverage will open initially in Vientiane. Commercial
service launch is expected in 2013.
Maxis and REDtone signed an infrastructure and

spectrum sharing agreement in July 2012. Both
companies plan to launch their LTE services in 2013.
Myanmar
Lao Telecommunications Company (LTC) is

deploying an LTE network that is expected to enter
commercial service for the public in 2013.
Mobile
operator
Myanmar
Posts
and
Telecommunications advised GSA that 1800 MHz (20
MHz) has recently been standardized for LTE FDD
service and will be trial launched in 2013.
Malaysia
Nepal
Regulator MCMC named 9 recipients of 20 MHz of
2.6 GHz spectrum: DiGi, Celcom Axiata, Maxis, U
Mobile, WiMAX operators Asiaspace, P1, REDtone
International, YTL Communications (Yes brand) and
Puncak Semangat Sdn Bhd which received 30 MHz.
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.
Ncell approached the Nepal Telecom Authority in

October 2010 for a license and spectrum for LTE.
Shareholder TeliaSonera is keen to proceed if
permission and spectrum are granted. GSA
understands that discussions with NTA continue.
Nepal Telecom is deploying a 2.3 GHz LTE TDD
network following spectrum assignment in 2011.
Deployment is scheduled to be completed within 1
year of contract sign date (announced Feb 2012). At
completion, 58 municipalities and all 3,915 VDCs will
be connected (a VDC is the lower administrative part
of its local development ministry). A trial using the
FDD mode in 700 MHz spectrum may be undertaken.
Maxis launched the countrys first commercial LTE

service on January 1, 2013 in 2.6 GHz spectrum,
initially modem-based, following two years of trials.
U Mobile announced on March 15, 2011 plans to
launch a commercial LTE network in 2.6 GHz.
In October 2011 Maxis and U Mobile signed an active
RAN sharing agreement covering LTE.
New Zealand
Vodafone New Zealand launched the countrys first
LTE commercial service on February 28, 2013 in
Auckland, using 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800). Six
LTE-capable devices were offered at launch.
On January 4, 2013 Celcom Axiata launched two 4G

LTE Experience Hubs as commercial network
deployment continues. Celcom Axiata and Maxis are
reported to be discussing 900/1800 MHz re-farming.
Telecom New Zealand showcased LTE in Auckland

in 2011 and launched trials there and in Wellington on
December 7, 2012. Spectrum in 700 MHz, 1800 MHz
and 2.6 GHz bands is being used. The company
plans commercial LTE service launch by early 2014.
DiGi is upgrading over 5,000 sites, and plans to

launch LTE in 2.6 GHz in 2013.
19
April 7, 2013
Kordia is considering an upgrade of its 2.3 GHz rural

mobile network to LTE.
SingTel launched commercial LTE service on

December 22, 2011 in 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz
spectrum. Initial service using dongles was in the
Central Business District, and planned to extend to
high data usage regions. 80% coverage of Singapore
is targeted by 2012, extending to island-wide by early
2013. 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. Tablet sales began end August 2012.
Woosh is considering an upgrade of its 2.3 GHz rural

mobile network to LTE. Woosh is a member of the
Global TD-LTE Initiative.
The government has adopted the APT700 FDD band
plan and will auction spectrum in 9 paired 5 MHz
blocks in Q3 2013 for use from January 1, 2014.
Details about the auction format, rules, and
implementation requirements are in development.
The Philippines
Following a period of limited commercial LTE service
beginning in Boracay in April 2011 then extended to
additional locations including Cebu and Davao,
Smart Communications commercially launched
wider LTE service on August 25, 2012 in Metro
Manila using 2.1 GHz (band 1). Commercial LTE
service was also launched using 1800 MHz (LTE1800
band 3) on September 5, 2012. To further extend
coverage, 850 MHz spectrum (band 5) was brought
into use on September 14, 2012. By end October
2012 another 10 cities were covered by LTE. Smart is
currently conducting LTE TDD technology trial.s
Regulator IDA plans to auction 1800 MHz, 2.3 GHz,

and 2.6 GHz spectrum. 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 June 30, 2015. The1800 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
deployment of LTE TDD. IDA plans to allocate 150
MHz of 2.6 GHz i.e. 2 x 60 MHz paired, and 30 MHz
unpaired. IDA said 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 licences expire.
Globe Telecom launched commercial LTE1800

service under the Tattoo broadband brand on
September 28, 2012 in Makati City, with plans to
quickly expand to cover Manila, Cebu, Davao and
select regions.
Bayan Telecommunications indicated interest to
deploy LTE in existing 1800 MHz spectrum.
South Korea
Singapore
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. LG U Plus launched commercial
HD Voice (W-AMR) VoLTE service in August 2012.
M1 launched commercial LTE services in the financial

district on June 21, 2011 initially using 2.6 GHz, later
introducing LTE1800. Nationwide coverage using
dual band was announced on September 15, 2012.
StarHub tested LTE in 2.6 GHz and 1800 MHz. An
LTE1800 network in refarmed 1800 MHz was
commercially launched on September 19, 2012 in the
Central Business District (CBD), Changi Airport and
Singapore Expo. StarHub plans to trial VoLTE.
SK Telecom launched commercial LTE service in

Seoul on July 1, 2011 in10 MHz in Band 5 (850 MHz).
The company brought forward its nationwide (84
20
April 7, 2013
cities) coverage date to April 1, 2012. In December

2011 SK Telecom started deploying dual-mode
femtocells with LTE and Wi-Fi which, according to the
Small Cell Forum, were the first LTE femtocells on a
commercial network. In May 2012 SK Telecom
announced of multi-carrier trials (LTE Advanced) to
allow combining of Band 5 and Band 3 spectrum for
LTE. SK Telecom won 20 MHz of 1800 MHz
spectrum in the recent auction. Their multi-carrier
LTE service 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 confirmed it had 7 million LTE subscribers
(December 12, 2012), and ahead of forecast.
in Colombo. The company later acquired 10 MHz of

1800 MHz in an auction and commercially launched
LTE1800 on April 2, 2013 in Colombo. The LTE TDD
continues to be developed for fixed wireless offerings.
Mobitel announced on May 6, 2011 completion of an
LTE trial and launched commercial LTE1800 service
on December 31, 2012.
Etisalat is deploying a commercial LTE network in
anticipation of a license award in 2013.
Taiwan
On August 24 2012 the regulator NCC announced
that spectrum in 700, 900 and 1800 MHz bands,
totaling 135 MHz x 2, will be auctioned and licences
will be technology-neutral. Spectrum will be auctioned
in 5 MHz paired blocks. Prospective mobile
broadband operators may need to bid for one or more
blocks in order to achieve the resources required. A
limit may be set on the number of sub 1GHz channels
that an operator can hold. Further consultation is
ongoing on the auction rules and license terms. The
auction is expected to be held in December 2013.
SK Telecom (NYSE:SKM) announced start of

international LTE roaming service with Globe
Telecom (The Philippines) on 1 April 2013, thus
adding to its existing roaming agreements with CSL
Limited (Hong Kong) from June 1, 2012) and SingTel
from March 1, 2013. SK Telecom has also
announced plans to launch quad-band LTE devices
(850 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2.1 GHz and 2.6 GHz) during
Q2 2013.
SK Telecom launched commercial HD Voice (WAMR) VoLTE service in August 2012.
The APT recommendation for the 700 MHz band

(APT/AWF/REP-14, Sep 2010) i.e. APT700 is being
followed.
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. KT was estimated to have
3.9 million LTE subscribers by December 2012.
Chunghwa Telecom trialled LTE in 2.6 GHz and 700

MHz and completed LTE FDD and TDD tests on the
high-speed rail system using 2.6 GHz. FarEasTone
and China Mobile are co-operating on an LTE TDD
trial in Taipei. The National Chiao Tung University
conducted an LTE TDD trial in 2010. BWA operators
Global Mobile, Tatung, FET and VMAX have
technology-neutral licences and can apply to deploy
different technologies, e.g. LTE. WiMAX operator
Global Mobile has requested approval to amend its
licence to allow a switch to LTE TDD and began
testing. PHS and WiMAX operator Fitel trialled LTE
TDD for a year from July 1, 2011 in Taoyuan, and is
expected to request the NCC to allow migration from
WiMAX to LTE if their trial proves successful.
Regulator KCC conducted an auction in August 2011

of spectrum blocks 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.
Thailand
Sri Lanka
Regulator NBTC has approved trialling of LTE in 2.3
GHz and 1800 MHz.
Dialog Axiata commercially launched an LTE TDD

network in 2.3 GHz (band 40) on December 30, 2012
21
April 7, 2013
TOT partnered 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.
Softbank has formed a partnership with Thailand's
state-owned operator TOT, which will focus on joint
development of a 2.3 GHz LTE TDD network using
TOT's allocation of 64 MHz bandwidth. It is likely that
the LTE network will be used for mobile backhaul for
Wi-Fi access points and mobile cell sites.
Europe
The first test phase ran until May 2012.

AIS
subsidiary Digital Phone Co joined with CAT
Telecom to test LTE1800 from mid-January 2012 in
Maha Sarakham. The trial had 8 sites and ran until
March 2012. TOT planned new trials involving up to
400 sites using 30 MHz of 2.3 GHz spectrum.
Andorra Telecom plans to deploy LTE in 2013.
True Corp announced plans to commercially launch

LTE service in April 2013, using 2100 MHz spectrum.
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.
Abkhaz
Aquafon announced that LTE testing was performed
in Suchumi in co-operation with Megafon.
Andorra
Armenia
VivaCell-MTS commercially launched LTE in
Yerevan on December 28, 2011 in 2.6 GHz spectrum.
NBTC has tentatively decided on Q3 2014 to re-sell

25 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum due for return when
licences expire in September 2013. LTE deployments
in 1800 MHz will be allowed (LTE1800).
ArmenTel (Beeline/Vimpelcom) plans to deploy LTE.

Austria
Regulator TKK completed the 2.6 GHz auction on
September 20, 2010, raising 39.5m from A1
Telekom, Hutchison 3, T-Mobile and Orange. 14
paired and 9 unpaired blocks were sold. Licences
require at least 25% population coverage by 2013.
Vietnam
Regulator MIC has authorized trials by VNPT, Viettel,
FPT Telecom, CMC, VTC, EVN Telecom and Gtel.
RusViet Telecom (an Alltech company) trialled an
LTE network in 2010 in Hanoi. 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. 5 mobile network operators
have been running LTE trials for over a year.
A1 Telekom commercially launched LTE in Vienna

and St. Plten on November 5, 2010. LTE service
covers 80% of the population (February 2013).
T-Mobile Austria commercially launched LTE service
using 2.6 GHz spectrum on July 28, 2011. In
September 2012 the company announced that its
LTE network covered 650,000 inhabitants of Vienna,
Linz, Graz and Innsbruck, and that more than 4,000
towers had been upgraded for LTE. The company is
reported to have tested carrier aggregation,
combining 2.6 GHz and 1800 MHz spectrum.
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).
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
(band 38) is being studied.
The Authority of Radio Frequency Management is

reported as saying that LTE-based licensing of 4G
will be delayed until 2015 unless there is a significant
pick up in the market for high-speed data services.
Orange Austria has tested LTE technology and won

2 x 10 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum in the 2010 auction.
22
April 7, 2013
The owner of 3 Austria confirmed in February 2012

the intent to acquire Orange Austria. The European
Commission approved the proposed acquisition
subject to implementing a commitments package to
facilitate entry of new players into the market.
Belgium
Belgacom (Proximus) deployed a pilot network in
Hasselt, Mons, Waver and Haasrode, later extended
to Antwerp, Ghent, Leuven, Liege and Namur.
Commercial LTE1800 service was launched on
November 5, 2012 in 8 cities. 2.6 GHz may be used
later where more capacity is needed.
Regulator TKK published a preliminary schedule for

auctioning 800 MHz, 900 MHz and 1800 MHz
spectrum in September 2012. The auction was
postponed because of the merger, and is now rescheduled to September 2013.
Mobistar has opened a pilot network in Antwerp and

is deploying LTE in 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and 2600
MHz for commercial launch in 2013, targeting
coverage for 80% of the population by 2015.
Azerbaijan
Azercell launched commercial LTE1800 service in
the center of Baku beginning June 19, 2012.
Base began trialling LTE in 2011. Telenet trialled

LTE in 2010 and in June 2011 acquired 900, 1800,
and 2100 MHz which could be used for LTE.
Azerfon (Nar Mobile) has deployed its first LTE base

station in Baku.
blite Telecom BVBA (ex- Clearwire Belgium) plans

to launch a 3.5 GHz LTE TDD system (band 42).
Bakcell is deploying a commercial LTE network.

Regulator BIPT auctioned 4G licences for 77 million
Euros, 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.
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 (backed by Asian investors)
technology choice is understood to be TD-LTE.
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
commercially launched launched LTE in Minsk,
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. NOTE: Yota has since
ceased operations in Belarus, and has been removed
from GSAs list of commercial LTE network launches.
BIPT launched a consultation in 2011 on opening 900

MHz, 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz for HSPA and LTE.
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 number of cities with LTE coverage is
planned to increase gradually in 2012. Existing 900
and 1800 MHz spectrum can be used for LTE since
January 2012 and LTE1800 is in deployment.
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 2 x 15
MHz in 2.6 GHz for commercial network deployment.
450 MHz CDMA operator Belcel (Diallog brand) is
deploying a commercial LTE network. Commercial
service launch is anticipated by Summer 2013.
On January 6, 2012 VIVACOM confirmed receipt of

permission from regulator CRC to start LTE testing
for which a network using 1800 MHz was built in
Sofia for trials up to June 2012. An LTE1800
commercial network is now being deployed.
Additional 900 and 1800 MHz spectrum is expected

to be allocated by the regulator in future. Digital
Dividend spectrum is anticipated from end 2015.
23
April 7, 2013
CRC stated December 15, 2011 that 3 technologyneutral licences for vacant 1800 MHz spectrum had
been granted to Max Telecom (2 8 MHz), 4G Com
EAD (2 8 MHz) and Bulsatcom (2 5 MHz).
the first phase will use either current spectrum

(refarmed 1800 MHz) or spectrum allocated from the
forthcoming auction (see following paragraph).
In September 2011, regulator CTU issued terms and
conditions for a planned auction of 800, 1800 and
2600 MHz. CTU said that the 1800 MHz spectrum is
reserved for a possible new entrant. The auction
started on November 12, 2012 with 4 bidders (three
incumbents plus PPF Mobile Services) but was
cancelled on March 8, 2013 due to excessively high
prices which was felt could lead to high prices for
consumers. New rules are now being drafted to
replay the auction.
Croatia
T-Hrvatski Telekom commercially launched LTE in
10 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800) on March
23, 2012 in Zagreb with free mobile data access on
its LTE network until October 1, 2012. Osijek, Rijeka
and Split are now covered as well as 50% of Zagreb.
Commercial LTE service using 800 MHz spectrum
was introduced in December 2012 in Drenovaca,
Josipdola, Koprivnice, Otocca, Ozlja and Petrinje.
Denmark
VIPNet demonstrated LTE in 800 MHz in March 2011
and launched a trial for 20 consumers on September
1 2011 in Novi Zagreb using 800 and 1800 MHz
spectrum. VIPNet commercially launched LTE1800
service on March 23, 2012 with free mobile data
access on its LTE network until end June 2012.
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 Nttjnster 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.
Velatel (Novi-net) holds 42 MHz spectrum in 3.5 GHz

and is deploying an LTE TDD network since Q2 2012.
In late October 2012 regulator HAKOM announced
the results of the digital dividend (800 MHz band 20)
spectrum auction. Three blocks were offered,
however VIPNet and T-Hrvatski Telekom were the
only bidders. The total raised from the auction was
about 40 million, and annual spectrum usage fees
will also apply. VIPNet acquired 2 x 10 MHz of this
spectrum. The winners are required to achieve
coverage to at least 50% of the territory in five years.
Telia launched the countrys 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 using 10 MHz of 1800 MHz (LTE1800) as
a complement to 2.6 GHz. Tri-band 800/1800/2600
MHz LTE dongles and routers are available.
Telenor and Telia agreed to merge their 4G/LTE, 3G
and 2G networks into a JV called TT-Netvrket P/S.
4G sharing will use LTE1800 and LTE800.
HAKOM has launched a consultation into use of 900

and 1800 MHz for mobile broadband, including LTE.
Telenor has announced plans for the commercial

launch of its LTE1800 service by end March 2013,
covering 192 towns and cities, 75% of the population.
Czech Republic
Telefonia O2 commercially launched LTE1800
service in certain areas of Prague on June 19, 2012.
TDC launched commercial LTE service on October

10, 2011 in Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense, Aalborg,
Esbjerg, Randers, Kolding, Horsens, Vejle, Roskilde.
T-Mobile announced inauguration in July 2012 of an

LTE trial in Prague's Kamyk district with 12 base
stations using 20 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum. In
November 2012 the free user trial was extended to
the city of Mlada Boleslav using 20 MHz of 1800 MHz
spectrum (LTE1800). T-Mobile is deploying a
commercial LTE network for launch in 2013, which in
3 Denmark is deploying an LTE FDD network

combined with 25 MHz of TDD spectrum, and
launched its commercial LTE FDD service using 1800
and 2600 MHz spectrum on September 28, 2012, at
the same time introducing the iPhone 5.
24
April 7, 2013
TDC and TT-Netvrket P/S were awarded 800 MHz

spectrum in the auction which closed on June 26,
2012. TDC won 2 x 20 MHz and TT-Netvrket won 2
x 10 MHz. 739.3 million Danish Kr (approx USD124.3
million) total was paid for the 5 blocks of spectrum on
offer (four 2 x 5 MHz blocks, one 2 x 10 MHz block).
The licences have coverage requirements, and
spectrum may be used from January 1, 2013.
Elisa obtained 50 MHz, and launched a precommercial 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.
Estonia
TeliaSonera launched the first commercial LTE
service in Finland on November 30, 2010 in Turku
and Helsinki, using 2.6 GHz spectrum. LTE1800 was
commercially launched as a complement to 2.6 GHz
on August 31, 2011. In November 2012 TeliaSonera
announced that LTE had been rolled out to 50 cities.
Regulator TJA awarded LTE licences 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.
Elisa commercially launched a 2.6 GHz LTE network

for corporate users on December 8, 2010, and
announced its first client. The company launched
LTE2600/LTE1800 service combined with DCHSPA+ for consumers on November 17, 2011. LTE
service reached 52 cities by early March 2013.
EMT launched the first commercial LTE service in

Estonia on December 17, 2010 in 2.6 GHz in the
centers of Tallinn, Tartu, Kohila, and at the IT College
of Tallinn University of Technology. On December 19,
2011 EMT announced start of LTE network
deployment in 1800 MHz. Commercial service is now
delivered using LTE1800 as well as 2.6 GHz. EMT
expects to achieve 95% population coverage by end
2013. On February 22, 2012 EMT announced that
traffic from LTE subscribers exceeds traffic volume
generated by GSM subscribers. The LTE network
included 118 bases stations at that time, and had
subsequently increased to 300 by end 2012
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).
FICORA granted test licences from early July 2011
for operators wishing to test LTE800 technology (i.e.
in digital dividend spectrum). The auction of 800MHz
spectrum in six 5MHz paired blocks (791 812 MHz
paired with 832 862 MHz) is scheduled to
commence on January 24, 2013. Licences will have
20 years duration.
Tele2 Estonia commercially launched LTE service in

Tallinn using 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum on
November 27, 2012. Tele2 plans 100% coverage by
end 2017. 8.3 MHz of additional 1800 MHz spectrum
was acquired at end 2011.
On January 7, 2011 Elisa confirmed receipt of 2.6
GHz spectrum and is operating test networks using
1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. Elisa plans to
launch LTE service in early 2013 and plans to acquire
800 MHz licences in 1H 2013.
WiMAX operator Datame is preparing to introduce

LTE and is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative.
France
FT/Orange launched a pilot LTE network in Marseille
in June 2012. Coverage in Lyon, Lille and Nantes
were added later, with marketing to corporate
customers beginning on November 22, 2012.
Consumer services began in February 2013. Service
Finland
20-year 2.6 GHz licences were auctioned by regulator
FICORA on 23 November 2009:
25
April 7, 2013
was introduced in Paris in February 2013 and LTE

now covers 14 cities and a part of Paris. Coverage to
21 additional regions is to be added in June 2013.
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.
SFR launched commercial LTE service on November

28, 2012 in Lyon and in Montpellier on December 18,
2012 and uses 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum. The
La Defense business region of Paris went live in
January 2013, and Marseille in March 2013.
E Plus has completed LTE trials in 2.1 GHz, 1800

MHz, and 2.6 GHz and LTE TDD 2.6 GHz. E-Plus is
a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative. Since July
2011 the E Plus HQ building has LTE1800 trial
coverage and having received re-farming approval in
January 2013 the company is now deploying a
commercial LTE1800 network.
Bouygues Telecom is trialing LTE1800 in 10 MHz

using 2x2 MIMO at sites in Orlans and planned to
deploy 5,000 LTE-capable base stations by end 2012
with service launch in 2013. The company has run a
pilot network in Lyon since June 2012.
Vodafone launched the first rural LTE mobile

broadband service across Germany on December 1,
2010. Vodafone plans to upgrade all base stations to
LTE. In March 2013 the company announced that
LTE service reached 65% of the population.
Regulator 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
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).
On January 17, 2012 ARCEP announced 800 MHz

spectrum had been won by Orange, SFR and
Bouygues Telecom, each receiving 2 x 10 MHz.
Bouygues Telecom requested permission from
ARCEP to also use its existing 1800 MHz for LTE and
approval has been given for this use from October 1,
2013 subject to specific spectrum disposal conditions.
The company is expected to launch earlier using
existing 2.6 GHz spectrum.
DT has tested an LTE 44 MIMO system, capable of

a theoretical 250 Mbps peak download speed.
Telefonica O2 commercially launched LTE service
on July 1, 2011 in rural areas using digital dividend
(800 MHz) spectrum, marketing the service as "O2
LTE fr Zuhause (at home). On July 3, 2012 O2
commercially launched mobile LTE service in urban
areas, initially Nuremberg and Dresden, followed by
other major cities, including Berlin and Munich on
March 31, 2013.
SFR and Orange can also request permission to use

some or all of their 1800 MHz holdings for LTE.
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.
WiMAX operator Deutsche Breitband Dienste

(DBD) has a licence with 42 to 70 MHz of 3.5 GHz
spectrum nationwide and is planning to deploy LTE
TDD in its network.
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 auctions total
Regulator BNetz is consulting on post-2016

requirements for channels in the 900 and 1800 MHz
bands (GSM assignments expire in December 2016).
26
April 7, 2013
Georgia
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 Magyarorszg won 2 MHz spectrum
block in the E-GSM band;
Telenor Magyarorszg won altogether 1.8 MHz
duplex spectrum block in the E-GSM band.
Magticom is trialling LTE and 1800 MHz is an option.

Greece
Cosmote has completed LTE testing in 900 and 1800
MHz which included a pilot LTE network running at its
technical and network HQ near Athens. An extended
cell technology trial was completed in 2011. Cosmote
launched commercial LTE1800 service on November
16, 2012 in Athens and Thessaloniki.
Vodafone announced launch of commercial LTE1800
service on December 17, 2012 in Athens, with
Thessaloniki soon to follow.
Ireland
Regulator EETT completed an auction of 900 and

1800 MHz technology-neutral licences on November
14, 2011 to incumbents Cosmote, Vodafone and
Wind raising 380.5 million Euros. Operators will
deploy LTE in either or both bands. Analogue TV
switchover is planned by 2013. EETT has launched a
consultation on potential granting of technology
neutral licences for 3.4 - 3.8 GHz. Responses were
required by March 8, 2013.
Regulator ComReg launched the auction process on

May 25, 2012 to cover the 800, 900 and 1800 MHz
bands for the period 2013-2030. In total 140 MHz of
paired spectrum was offered. The results were
announced on November 15, 2012. Meteor,
Telefnica O2 and Vodafone were each awarded
blocks in the 800 MHz band. Hutchison 3 Ireland,
Meteor, Telefnica and Vodafone were each awarded
spectrum in both the 900 MHz and 1800 MHz bands.
All 4 operators will deploy commercial LTE networks.
Hungary
www.comreg.ie/_fileupload/publications/PR15112012.pdf
Imagine Group has about 220 MHz of 3.5 GHz

spectrum (bands 42, 43) in all strategic parts of the
country and is currently operating a WiMAX 802.16e
network nationally. The company has informed GSA
of its intention to upgrade this network to LTE TDD in
2013 and is currently conducting trials of LTE.
Imagine is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative.
T-Mobile
(MT)
commercially
launched
LTE
technology based services on January 1, 2012
initially in 10 districts of Budapest (over 40% of
Budapests population was covered). Indoor coverage
in Budapest is 73% of the population (June 2012).
Telenor Hungary commercially launched LTE
service on July 5, 2012 using 1800 MHz (LTE1800)
under the brand Hipernet 84. Telenor offers 84 Mbps
maximum nominal download speed in 60 towns
covering 700,000 population (July 2012), which was
expanded to 76 towns by February 2013.
ComReg is considering the future of the 2.6 GHz

band including a review of the operation of existing
licences within this spectrum which are used for the
provision of Pay TV services and MMDS. All MMDS
licences expire on April 18, 2014. ComReg proposes
that the current MMDS licences should be renewed
for 2 years i.e. to April 18, 2016 and that a
competitive process be implemented to award new
licences on a service and technology neutral basis
which could be used e.g. for MMDS or LTE services.
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 Magyarorszg, Magyar Posta led
consortium, RCS and RDS, Vodafone Magyarorszg,
Magyar Telekom (MT/T-Mobile) and Viettel Group.
Italy
Italys spectrum auction closed with the four
incumbents TIM, Vodafone Italy, Wind and 3 Italia
27
April 7, 2013
submitting bids totalling over 3.9 billion. Spectrum

was awarded in 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz bands for
use from end 2011 (1800 MHz), end 2012 (2.6 GHz),
and January 2013 (800 MHz).
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 an LTE pilot network in Almaty.
3 Italia is deploying LTE1800 using 15 MHz and from

2013 intends to offer multicarrier aggregation (an LTE
Advanced feature) allowing LTE1800 and LTE2600 to
be used together. 3 Italia has acquired TDD spectrum
(band 38) for future deployment. 3 Italia launched a
small-scale trial in Acuto on November 6, 2012.
Commercial service was launched in Milan and Rome
in December 2012.
TeliaSonera acquired the WiMAX operations of

Alem Communications including a network in 6 major
cities and 2.6 GHz (band 38) spectrum, which is
compatible for other technologies e.g. LTE TDD.
Frequencies to be allocated by the government for
LTE include 700/800 MHz, 2.3 GHz and 2.6 GHz.
Wind obtained spectrum for LTE deployment in 800

MHz and 2.6 GHz bands and plans commercial LTE
service launch in all major cities during 2013.
Kyrgyzstan
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
commercially launched LTE1800 service on
November 6, 2012 in Milan and Rome. By end March
2013 their LTE service was available in 21 cities.
Saima Telecom launched commercial 2.6 GHz FDD

LTE services in Bishtek on December 9, 2011.
According
to
media
reports,
the
National
Communications Agency has allocated spectrum for
LTE and WiMAX deployments to 12 companies:
AsiaInfo, Global Telecom Asia, ToTel, Aknet,
Kurulush Invest, T-Com, Fraton Plus, Aytel, Foris
Telecom, WTT, Saima Telecom and Intranet KG.
Telecom Italia (TIM) launched its LTE program in

2009 followed by trials. A public users trial was
launched in Turin February 16-22, 2012. TIM has
spectrum for LTE in 800, 1800 and 2600 MHz bands.
Commercial service was launched on November 7,
2012 using LTE1800 in Rome, Milan, Turin and
Naples. On December 17, 2012 TIM confirmed that
LTE coverage is available in a total of 13 cities. 800
MHz could be brought into use from January 2013.
Latvia
LMT launched the countrys first
LTE1800 system on May 31, 2011.
commercial
Bite is deploying a commercial LTE network.

Fixed operator Lattelecom is reported to be ready to
offer LTE services, subject to shareholder approval
and carried out tests in 850MHz in 2011. CDMA
operator Triatel tested LTE in 800 MHz.
WiMAX operator AFT-Linkem is licensed in 13

regions and plans to introduce 3.5 GHz LTE TDD.
Jersey
After a day and half of bidding which began January

2, 2012 LMT, Tele2, Bite and Baltcom gained new
2.6 GHz spectrum, which can be used from January
1, 2014. Licences are valid for 15 years. Latvia will
also allocate 800 MHz band 20 digital dividend.
Clear Mobitel announced September 17, 2010 it had

received a 2.6 GHz LTE test license.
Kazakhstan
Altel (CDMA operator) (JSC Kazakhtelecom and JSC
ALTEL) commercially launched LTE1800 service in
Astana and Almaty on December 25, 2012.
Lithuania
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.
Tele2 has signaled interest in deploying LTE.
28
April 7, 2013
Omnitel commercially launched LTE service on April

28, 2011 in Vilnius, Kaunas, Klaipda, iauliai and
Panevys using 1800 MHz. Omnitel won 2 x 20
MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum in the March 2012 auction.
The network has 124 base stations (March 2013).
9, 2012 Orange commercially launched LTE service

on November 20, 2012 in Chiinu.
Moldcell launched LTE service for corporate
customers in newly-acquired 2.6 GHz spectrum on
November 16, 2012. Commercial service was
extended to all customers on December 24, 2012.
Tele2 held a public LTE demonstration in December

2010, obtained 2 x 20 MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum in
the auction, and commercially launched LTE service
in Alytus, Jonava, Marijampole, Mazeikiai and Utena
in March 2013.
CDMA operator InterDnestrCom (IDC) launched

commercial LTE service in 800 MHz in TransDniester in the capital Tiraspol, connecting its first
customer April 21, 2012.
Bite Lithuania is trialling LTE and obtained 2 x 20

MHz of 2.6 GHz spectrum in the auction.
ANRCETI offered 4G licences to each of the 3

incumbent mobile networks for spectrum in the
ranges 2500-2690 MHz and 3600-3800 MHz. Each
license cost EUR10 million. Any unsold will be offered
via public tender. ANRCETI also plans a public tender
for a license to use 3750-3800 MHz spectrum.
Luxembourg
Regulator Institute Luxembourgeois de Rgulation
(ILR) has introduced technology neutral licences for
P & T, Orange and Tango and granted extra 1800
MHz spectrum at the request of the operators, paving
the way for deploying LTE in 1800 MHz (LTE1800).
Monaco
Monaco Telecom has been granted access to LTE
spectrum and is trialing LTE for test customers. If a
successful outcome, commercial service could be
launched by end 2013. Cable and Wireless, the main
shareholder is selling a share of its stake to Digicel.
Tango Luxembourg commercially launched its

LTE1800 network on October 1, 2012 for 60% of the
population, increasing to 90% by end 2012.
Orange launched its commercial LTE1800 network
on October 29, 2012 with introductory service prices.
The Orange LTE network was used during the
wedding of Grand Duc Guillaume and Countess
Stephanie on October 22-23, 2012 to carry images
from broadcaster RTL.
Montenegro
On November 8, 2011 Telenor announced start of
LTE trials in Podgorica. Commercial service in 2.6
GHz was confirmed on November 8, 2012 in the four
municipalities of Podgorica, Bar, Niksic and Cetinje.
P & T is also deploying a commercial LTE network.

Velatel (Montenegro Connect) has 40 MHz in 3.5
GHz and is now deploying an LTE TDD network.
Macedonia
Regulator AEC is consulting with operators on how to
introduce LTE, and is considering a spectrum auction.
Netherlands
VIP mobile has publicly expressed interest in

acquiring digital dividend spectrum (800 MHz) for LTE
deployment subject to the terms being attractive.
2.6 GHz FDD spectrum was auctioned in April 2010

and awarded to incumbents KPN, Vodafone, TMobile, newcomers Ziggo 4 (an MVNO on KPNs
network) and Tele2. TDD spectrum was not bought.
Moldova
Vodafone NL launched commercial LTE service in

Eindhoven on May 1, 2012.
Ziggo commercially launched LTE on May 3, 2012
for its Internet Plus business customers in Breda, Oss
and Zwolle.
Orange Moldova showcased LTE at the first Orange

Expo in September 2011 and deployed a trial network
is deployed in Chiinu. Following receipt of a 2.6
GHz license from regulator ANRCETI on November
29
April 7, 2013
Tele2 NL commercially launched LTE on May 8,

2012 in Amstelveen, Amsterdam, Haarlem, Lelystad
and Tilburg.
Poland
The worlds first LTE1800 network was deployed by
Aero2 and commercially launched on September 7,
2010 by Mobyland and CenterNet. The primary
customer is Cyfrowy Polsat an MVNO, who
launched commercial services on August 30, 2011.
(GSA does not categorize MVNOs as networks therefore Cyfrowy Polsat is not included in GSAs list
of commercially launched LTE networks).
KPN launched commercial LTE in 2.6 GHz on May

11, 2012 in The Hague and Utrecht for business
users. Commercial service was launched in
Amsterdam in February 2013 in 800 MHz spectrum.
T-Mobile commercially launched LTE on May 11,
2012 for business users in Delft, Gorinchem, Leiden,
Rotterdam and The Hague. T-Mobile is now
deploying LTE1800 and plans to cover most of the
population by 2H 2014.
In November 2009 Aero2, a member of the Global

TD-LTE Initiative, acquired 50 MHz in Band 38 for
LTE TDD. After testing in Aleksandrw dzki and
d, Aero2 announced launch of their LTE TDD
network in May 2011 and start of availability of their
dual LTE network, since Aero2 had already deployed
an LTE1800 network as stated above.
Regulator OPTA started an auction of 800, 900 and

1800 MHz spectrum on October 31, 2012. 2 x 10
MHz in the 800 MHz band and 2 x 5 MHz in the 900
MHz band was reserved for new entrants. The sale
achieved 3.8 billion Euros. KPN, Vodafone and TMobile won new spectrum; Ziggo-UPC withdrew.
Polkomtel was acquired on June 30, 2011 by

Spartan Capital Holdings, which is indirectly
controlled by Zygmunt Solorz-Zak, chairman/founder
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.
(Note: GSA does not categorize MVNOs as
networks - therefore Polkomtel is not included in
GSAs list of commercially launched LTE networks).
Norway
Norway held Europes first 2.6 GHz spectrum auction
in 2007 that was awarded to incumbents TeleNor and
TeliaSonera (NetCom); total allocation 2 x 90 MHz.
TeliaSonera launched the worlds first LTE networks
in Oslo (NetCom) and Sweden using 2.6 GHz
spectrum in December 2009. TeliaSonera has
additionally commercially used refarmed 1800 MHz
(LTE1800) in its Norwegian network from Q4 2011.
TeleNor deployed its LTE network initially using 2.6
GHz. Commercial service launch was confirmed on
October 10, 2012 for customers in 11 cities and
towns: Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger,
Lrenskog, Sandnes, Lillestrm, Asker, Brum,
Lofthus. Longyearbyen. Fredrikstad, Sarpsborg,
Skien, Porsgrunn, Drammen and Kristiansand were
covered by end 2012. LTE1800 is now also used in
Troms. Telenor intends to use 800 MHz later to help
achieve 90% population coverage by 2015.
Polkomtels
own
LTE1800
network
was
commercially launched in September 2012. The
companys Plus LTE network covers more than 50%
of the population (company website, April 2013).
Sferia holds 850 MHz spectrum (CDMA band) in
which LTE is now being deployed as part of their cooperation with NFI Midas for constructing their
existing LTE network, used by Polkomtel and by
MVNO Cyfrowy Polsat. NFI Midas is a private equity
fund focused on the telecommunication, media and
technologies sectors and forms a capital group
committed to provision of LTE technology.
Regulator NPT confirmed that the 790-862 MHz

spectrum auction will be held in 2013.
Six companies including Sferia submitted bids for 5

lots of 1800 MHz spectrum auctioned by regulator
UKE (Urzd Komunikacji Elektronicznej). and
30
April 7, 2013
participated in the auction, which ended in midFebruary 2013. The winners were Play and TMobile, and each plan to launch LTE services in 2H
2013. Sferia did not win new spectrum.
Orange acquired new spectrum in the 800, 900, 1800

and 2.6 GHz bands in the auction. Orange Romania
commercially launched LTE1800 service on
December 12, 2012 in Bucharest and holiday resorts.
Plans of PTK Centertel (Orange) and P4 (Play) to

create a combined LTE network are approved. The
new JV will be allowed to bid in the 2.6 GHz auction.
UKE plans to auction 2.6 GHz and 790-862 MHz DD
spectrum in 2H 2013.
Vodafone also acquired additional 800, 900, 1800

and 2.6 GHz spectrum for EUR 228.52 million. On
October 31, 2012 Vodafone announced pilot
LTE1800 networks had been deployed. Commercial
LTE1800 service was launched in 10 cities (Arad,
Bacau, Brasov, Bucharest, Cluj, Constanta, Craiova,
Iasi, Galati and Timisoara) on November 20, 2012.
T-Mobile (PTC/ERA) plans to launch LTE in 2013 or

in early 2014.
Cosmote acquired 1 block in 800 MHz, 2 blocks in

900 MHz, 5 blocks in 1800 MHz and 2 blocks in 2.6
GHz and plans to launch LTE service end April 2013.
WiMAX operator Milmex, active in southern

Poland, plans to introduce 3.5 GHz LTE TDD in 2014.
Portugal
RCS & RDS plans to deploy LTE in newly acquired

900 MHz spectrum.
Regulator ANACOM announced the results of its

auction on December 12, 2011 after 9 bidding
rounds. 800 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum
was sold to the 3 incumbents. Vodafone also
acquired 2 x 5 MHz of new 900 MHz spectrum, but
another block was not sold. Spectrum in 450 MHz
and 2.1 GHz was not sold.
2K Telecom won 2 blocks of 15 MHz of 2.6 GHz

TDD spectrum (band 38) and anticipates service
launch in 2014.
In October 2012 ANCOM published a draft Decision
proposing to allow use of 900 and 1800 MHz for 4G
(including LTE). 4G systems may also be deployed in
800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum from 2014.
Operators may choose whether to implement new
technologies in these frequencies, the deployment
timescale, and the date of commercial service launch.
The draft decision is subject to a public consultation
before becoming effective.
TMN launched commercial LTE service on March 12,

2012 in 2.6 GHz. Population coverage exceeded 80%
in April 2012 when 800 MHz was brought into use.
TMN plans over 90% coverage by end 2012.
Vodafone commercially launched LTE service on
March 12, 2012 in 2.6 GHz and 800 MHz spectrum.
LTE1800 was brought into service in October 2012.
Russia
Optimus launched commercial LTE service on March

15, 2012 using 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz in more
dense areas. 800 MHz is used in less dense areas.
MTS,
Vimpelcom,
Tele2,
MegaFon
and
Rostelecom are 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 was examined further in a study in 2012.
Romania
On July 2, 2012 regulator ANCOM published the
rules for the auction of 800 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz
and 2.6 GHz spectrum for mobile communications
services in the 2013-2029 timeframe. The auction
took place amongst 5 bidders - Orange, Vodafone,
Cosmote, RCS & RDS, and 2K Telecom - on
September 10, 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 (in band 38) and is valid until
December 29, 2016. MTS announced commercial
launch of its LTE TDD service (replacing its WiMAX
31
April 7, 2013
service) on September 1, 2012 initially covering most

of Moscow and 40 population centers in the
surrounding Moscow region. MTS aims for its LTE
services to cover 96% of Moscow and double the
number of population centers in the Moscow Region
by end 2012.
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. Rostelecom has activated LTE sites in
Krasnodar and Sochi, as part of trials ahead of the
Olympics, with around 100 LTE base stations
expected to be installed in these areas by end 2013.
The trials use digital dividend and 2.6 GHz spectrum.
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
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
Megafon acquired WiMAX operator Synterra in

2010, and commercially launched LTE TDD using 2.6
GHz (band 38) spectrum in Moscow on September 1,
2012. Megafon also has an agreement with Yota and
since 1H 2012 has been operating as an MVNO over
Yotas LTE network in Moscow and other cities.
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 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 has since been
launched in several other locations including Samara
(May 23, 2012), Ufa (July 28, 2012), and St.
Petersburg (August 31, 2012). Yota expects its whole
customer base will migrate to LTE within three years.
In October 2012 Yota announced that a test LTE
Advanced network had been deployed in Moscow,
featuring Carrier Aggregation (Release 10 feature).
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 showed 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 was
prepared by NIIR and submitted to the State
Commission for Radio Frequencies.
www.en.tele2.ru/news.html?year=2012&month=3
&news_id=6170
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. The future of this
deal is uncertain following the completion of the LTE
auction procedure (see below). However it appears
that discussions involving Yota (Scartel), MTS,
Megafon and Vimpelcom have restarted.
Tele2 exited from Russia with the announcement on

April 4, 2013 that the entire business had been sold
to Russian bank VTB Group following receipt of FAS
approval. VTB purchased 100% of the business for
subsequent resale.
OJSC Osnova Telecom has a national license for

2.3 GHz LTE TDD and has been trialling LTE TDD in
many places including Rostov, Moscow, Yaroslavl
32
April 7, 2013
and Kubinka. The rollout plan has been announced

and may lead to commercial services launching in
October/November 2013. Services must be launched
by January 26, 2014. Trial services are expected to
begin in May 2013.
intention to launch its LTE service in the North

Caucasus federal district in 2013 and has since
confirmed plans to launch in at least 5 regions in
2013. Vimpelcom said it will launch LTE in Moscow
and 5 other cities in the Fall of 2013 and has received
approval to use Rostelecoms 2.6 GHz LTE network.
Vainakh Telecom is deploying a commercial LTE

TDD network in 2.3 GHz (band 40) in Chechnya and
has installed 180 base stations with plans to deploy
another 200 during 2013. Commercial service launch,
starting in Grozny, is delayed because of a dispute
over local equipment manufacturer certification.
The number of mobile Internet subscribers with

access via smartphones grew in Russia by 88% to
22.5 million in 2012, according to Json & Partners
Consulting who also said that the penetration of
mobile Internet access by end 2012 was 55% (40
million subs), i.e. 2.4 times the world average.
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.
Slovak Republic
Regulator TU SR granted licences to Telefonica O2,
Orange and T-Mobile Slovensko for each to trial
LTE FDD networks in 2.6 GHz in Bansk Bystrica.
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 involved cooperation of the NIIR
and the findings were 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.
Telefonica O2 commercially launched LTE services

on August 2, 2012 using LTE1800.
Orange Slovensko committed to commercial LTE
deployment. In early 2013 Orange returned its
CDMA licence to the regulator due to lower than
expected demand for CDMA-based services.
Smoltelecom is planning to introduce LTE and is a

member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative.
TU SR is preparing to auction spectrum for LTE use

in 800 MHz, 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands in 2013.
On May 3, 2012 Russian regulator Roskomnadzor

published the conditions for application for and
subsequent awarding of LTE licences in 791-862
MHz spectrum, comprising four lots, each consisting
of two 7.5 MHz blocks in the range of 791-862 MHz.
Recipients of each of the lots would 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
licences are nationwide. Compensation must be paid
to existing spectrum users in the offered bands.
Slovenia
Si.mobil announced commercial launch of LTE
service on July 12, 2012 in Ljubljana, Brnik, and Bled
using 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800).
Telekom Slovenije launched its LTE network under
the name of Mobitel LTE/4G on March 20, 2013 in
refarmed 1800 MHz spectrum. This commercial
LTE1800 network launch followed extensive testing
with different vendors during 2011 and 2012 in 1800
MHz and 800 MHz spectrum. Subscribers can use
the service with no additional cost until end of 2013.
Mobitel LTE/4G is available in 27 bigger cities. The
LTE network runs together with its UMTS network,
which has continuously been upgraded and which
has supported DC-HSPA+ network since 2011.
Eight companies submitted bids to participate in the

auction, MegaFon, Vimpelcom, MTS, Rostelecom,
Summa Telecom, TTK, Tele2-Voronezh, and
Tele2-Omsk. LTE licences were granted to MTS,
Vimpelcom, Megafon, and Rostelecom with the
conditions that the networks must be launched by mid
2013, annual investment targets must be met (RUB
15 billion), and nationwide coverage by 2019. Each
operator was granted spectrum in the digital dividend
band (720-750 MHz and 761791 MHz) plus 2,500
2,690 MHz spectrum. Rostelecom has stated its
Regulator APEK has authorized test spectrum for

LTE in the 700 MHz band (746-756MHz / 777-787
33
April 7, 2013
MHz) to a company called Neuron for tests between

October 9, 2012 and January 9, 2013 in Ljubljana.
800 MHz digital dividend spectrum will be allocated
for LTE. APEK plans to publish a call for bids in 2013.
An 800/1800/2600 MHz multimode modem was

introduced July 2011. By end 2012 almost 700 cities
in Sweden are served. Coverage will double by end
2013. On October 1, 2012 TeliaSonera was the first
LTE operator in Europe to offer an LTE Cat4 modem.
APEK plans to auction additional spectrum in the

1800 MHz and 2.1 GHz bands by June 1, 2013 and
has requested applications by April 15, 2013. A total
of 2 x 39.8 MHz of spectrum in 1800 MHz plus 2 x 10
MHz and 1 x 5 MHz block in 2100 MHz will be
offered, to enable launch of LTE at the earliest.
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 network.
Spain
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 licences.
Spectrum was won by Vodafone, Telefnica 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.
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.
Telefnica 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 where pilot networks are
running. Yoigo acquired 1800 MHz spectrum in 2011
for LTE1800.
ONO, JazzTel, Euskaltel, R, Telecable
TelecomCLM won regional 2.6 GHz licences.
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 2 x 35 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum, for
use from January 2013, began on October 11, 2011.
The new licences are valid for 25 years from 2013.
and
Regional start-up COTA trialled LTE TDD in Regin

de Murcia and is deploying a commercial 2.6 GHz
TDD network.
WiMAX operator Neo-Sky is studying
introduction of a 3.5 GHz LTE TDD system.
TeliaSonera acquired more nationwide frequencies

in the 1800 MHz band. The new frequencies are
being used in their LTE network and for strengthening
the mobile telephony network. In addition to its
existing 10 MHz, TeliaSonera acquired 2 x 25 MHz of
1800 MHz spectrum.
the
Cable operator R (R Cable y Telecomunicaciones

Galicia) is conducting LTE technology trials in 2.6
GHz in FDD and TDD modes, in 3 areas of Galicia.
Net4Mobility also acquired more 1800 MHz

spectrum for LTE1800. It means Net4Mobility and
TeliaSonera each has 2 x 35 MHz in 1800 MHz.
Sweden
A consultation has started to determine interest/future

use of 2.3 GHz (Band 40).
TeliaSonera launched the worlds first LTE networks

in Stockholm and Norway (Oslo) in December 2009.
34
April 7, 2013
Switzerland
Ukraine
Orange is preparing to introduce LTE service.

Demonstrations were held in Orange Centers in
various cities this year. Commercial LTE1800 service
is planned to be launched in 10 cities on June 1, 2013
MTS-Ukraine is trialling LTE.
Swisscom commercially launched LTE service on

November 29, 2012 in 26 towns and cities and is
planning for 70% population coverage by end 2013
(35% confirmed at end March 2013). The network
uses spectrum in 800, 1800, and 2600 MHz bands.
United Kingdom
ITC (CDMA Ukraine) is considering deploying LTE in

850 MHz spectrum.
UK Broadband is deploying LTE TDD and on

February 29, 2012 announced switch-on of its first
system in London. This was the worlds first LTE TDD
3.5GHz deployment and the first commercial LTE
deployment in the UK, and uses allocations within the
companys 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. LTE service is now available for consumers
and businesses in Reading, Scunthorpe, Southwark
(London), and Swindon. Indoor and outdoor CPEs
are available in this band. Portable hotspots and
smartphones will be introduced in 2013.
Sunrise is launching pilot LTE systems in Zurich and

Zug and in the winter sports locations of Flims, St.
Moritz, Saas Fee, Verbier, and Zermatt. Full
commercial service rollout is scheduled for 2013.
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.
O2 has tested LTE in 2.6 GHz spectrum and trialled

LTE800 in Carlisle in 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.
Following the UK spectrum auction O2 has
announced its supplier for its commercial network.
Tajikistan
Babilon-Mobile commercially launched LTE service
in Dushanbe on October 6, 2012 using 1800 MHz
(LTE1800) and 2100 MHz spectrum and initially the
Huawei E398 USB dongle was offered.
Turkey
Manx Telecom (Isle of Man) plans to trial LTE with a

view to possible commercial services launch in 2013.
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-mobilinternette-4g-hizinda-saha-testinigecti/ekonomi/ekonomidetay/07.04.2012/1525128/
default.htm
Arqiva trialled LTE in Wales using 800 MHz but did

not secure spectrum for a public LTE service.
EE owner of the Orange and T-Mobile UK brands
launched commercial LTE1800 service in 11 cities
(Bristol, Birmingham, Cardiff, Edinburgh, Glasgow,
Leeds, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Sheffield and
Southampton) on October 30, 2012. EE is targeting
65 towns and cities served by June 2013 and 98%
population coverage by end 2014.
GSM1800 operator Avea announced on September

15, 2011 a successful trial of LTE on its commercial
base stations.
Vodafone has trialled LTE and has GSM/HSPA
infrastructure which is also LTE-capable.
The 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz auction of 250 MHz of

LTE spectrum by Ofcom was repeatedly delayed.
Bidding by 7 companies opened on January 23,
2013. On February 20, 2013 Ofcom announced the
winning bidders who collectively paid 2.34 billion:
There is no firm date for an LTE spectrum auction.
35
April 7, 2013
Unitel launched commercial

December 16, 2012 in Luanda.
EE (800 MHz, 2.6 GHz FDD)

Hutchison 3G UK Limited (800 MHz)
Niche Spectrum Ventures (BT) (2.6 GHz FDD
& TDD)
Telefnica UK Limited (800 MHz)
Vodafone (800 MHz, 2.6 GHz FDD & TDD)

HKT (UK) and MLL Telecom did not win spectrum.
Results on the Ofcom website:
LTE
service
on
Bahrain
Zain showcased the regions first LTE call in March
2010 and is deploying a commercial LTE network.
VIVA launched a small scale commercial LTE
network on January 1, 2012 in the Bahrain City
Centre retail and leisure complex in Manama.
http://stakeholders.ofcom.org.uk/binaries/spectrum/spectru
m-awards/awards-in-progress/notices/4g-final-results.pdf
O2 and Vodafone are expected to launch LTE

commercial services in Q2 2013.
3 UK is deploying a commercial LTE network and has
agreed to buy 2 x 15 MHz of 1800 MHz spectrum
from EE, and plans commercial launch in 2H 2013.
Batelco announced an LTE trial in Hamala in

December 2011, and showcased VoD over LTE
during the International Air Show 2012. Commercial
service launch using 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800)
was opened on February 27, 2013.
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.
WiMAX operator Menatelecom is deploying a

nationwide 3.5 GHz LTE TDD network, targeting
commercial service by June or July 2013.
Ofcom has opened a consultation on use of 700 MHz

spectrum for mobile broadband, following the
Resolution passed at WRC 2012 that could lead to
ITU Region 1 i.e. Europe, Africa, Middle East
adopting 700 MHz for mobile broadband from 2015.
Regulator TRA planned to auction additional radio

spectrum in the 900, 1800, 2100 MHz and 2.6 GHz
bands on March 31, 2013. However the start was
delayed due to legal disputes.
Botswana
Uzbekistan
Mascom Wireless announced on June 12, 2012 the

setting up of an LTE pilot trial network.
MTS announced on July 28, 2010 commercial launch

of the first LTE network in the CIS and Central Asia,
in Tashkent and plans significant coverage
expansion.
Democrat Republic of Congo

Smile is deploying a commercial LTE network.
Ucell (TeliaSonera) announced commercial LTE

network launch (pre-commercial service) in Tashkent
on August 9, 2010.
Equatorial Guinea
700 MHz WiMAX operator Guineanet is planning to
migrate to LTE.
Beeline Uzbekistan announced its LTE network in

Tashkent entered into a test phase in February 2012.
Egypt
Middle East and Africa
Vodafone, Mobinil and Etisalat Misr have each

trialled LTE.
Angola
Etisalat Misr is currently waiting for responses to its

contract tender documents.
Movicel launched commercial LTE1800 service in

Cabinda on April 14, 2012 and is extending network
coverage areas with Luanda now covered.
Vodafone has signed its infrastructure vendor to

deploy a commercial LTE network.
36
April 7, 2013
Ethiopia
Kenya
Ethio-Telecom is upgrading its 3G system to 4G/LTE
Safaricom has trialled LTE in existing 3G spectrum.
Ghana
GSM operator Essar Telecom (Yu) is considering

by-passing 3G by going straight to LTE, subject to
shareholder funds being available.
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 government favors a single LTE network with

Private Public Partnership ownership.
Kuwait
The National Information Technology Agency (NITA)

is upgrading its WiMAX network to LTE.
The Minister of Communications announced in

October 2012 that all mobile operators (Zain, Viva
and Wataniya Telecom) have been granted licences
to deploy LTE in re-farmed 1800 MHz spectrum
subject to payment of a KD 250,000 fee.
Ghana aims to transition from analog to digital TV by

end 2014.
The regulator permits current spectrum to be
refarmed for latest technologies such as LTE.
Viva Kuwait commercially launched LTE services on

December 27, 2011 using 1800 MHz spectrum. On
March 14, 2013 LTE service was extended to all
customers, new and existing, without additional fees.
Iraq
MaxyTel is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative
and committed to deploying an LTE TDD network.
Zain Kuwait launched nationwide commercial LTE

service in 1800 MHz spectrum (LTE1800) on
November 21, 2012.
Regional Telecom (Northern Iraq) has selected its

infrastructure system supplier to build a commercial
LTE network.
Israel
Wataniya Telecom has announced its infrastructure

supplier and commercial LTE1800 service launch is
expected in 1H 2013.
Cellcom awarded LTE system upgrade contracts to 2

suppliers, one each for the north and south.
Lebanon
New spectrum allocations for operators wishing to

deploy LTE are awaited/expected in 2013. The
regulator may allocate 1800 MHz for LTE according
to reports.
MTC Touch activated the countrys first LTE base

station in November 2012 in Adliya district of Beirut,
and plans a pilot trial phase. Commercial LTE service
is anticipated in April 2013 in Beirut with 70 base
stations using 800 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum. A
carrier aggregation trial using 800/1800 MHz
spectrum was successfully completed in April 2013.
Jordan
Zain Jordan is deploying a commercial LTE network.
Alfa is deploying an LTE800 network (band 20) and

using 2.6 GHz and announced lab test results in
November 2012. A pilot trial network comprising 20
base stations has been deployed ahead of
commercial service launch planned for 2013.
Umniah Telecommunications recently completed

LTE trials.
Regulator TRC has announced a proposed auction of
spectrum in the 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2.3 GHz and
2.6 GHz bands. Expressions of interest are required
by 17 January 2013. All bands may be used for LTE
except the 2100 MHz spectrum.
Libya
Al Madar plans to deploy an LTE network.
37
April 7, 2013
Madagascar
20 MHz of spectrum in the 1900 MHz band to allow it

to become the first national LTE broadband operator.
WiMAX BWA operator Blueline is deploying a

commercial LTE TDD system (2.3 GHz).
In December 2012 Airtel Nigeria announced

successful completion of an LTE trial in Lagos.
Mauritius
In
April
2012
CDMA
operator
Visafone
Communications outlined a 3-year development
roadmap including investment in LTE as soon as the
infrastructure and other resources are available.
Orange Mauritius commercially launched LTE1800

on June 21, 2012 in parts of Port Luis.
Emtel soft-launched its LTE1800 network on May 29,
2012, and commercially launched at end July 2012.
Oman
Morocco
Omantel is a member of the Global TD-LTE Initiative

(GTI) and launched commercial LTE TDD service on
July 16, 2012 in band 40 (2.3 GHz). Recently the
regulator granted access to 1800 MHz spectrum for
LTE FDD deployments and Omantel commercially
launched LTE1800 service on December 30, 2012.
Regulator ANRT is preparing for a spectrum auction

for LTE implying commercial systems could launch by
end 2013 or early 2014.
Inwi is preparing to launch LTE service.
Nawras showcased LTE in March 2012 and began

deploying a 2.3 GHz LTE TDD network.
Subsequently the regulator granted access to 1800
MHz spectrum. Nawras commercially launched
LTE1800 service in Muscat, on February 17, 2013.
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.
Qatar
MTC launched commercial LTE service on May 16,

2012 in Windhoek in 1800 MHz (LTE1800) and plans
to cover 45% of the population with LTE within 12
months. MTC reported that LTE is already carrying
34% of total data traffic on the network (March 2013)
On December 7, 2010 Vodafone announced a live

demonstration of LTE in 800 MHz spectrum.
Ooredoo (Qtels new identity) plans commercial LTE
service launch in April 2013 in Doha using 800 MHz
and 2.6 GHz spectrum, following a trial phase.
Telecom Namibia acquired Leo and is deploying a

unified 2G/3G/4G-LTE network.
Rwanda
Nigeria
KT Corp (South Korea) is reported to have agreed

with the Rwandan government to create a JV that will
build a nationwide wholesale LTE network.
Globacom provides LTE-connectivity to a 3rd party

company providing wireless backhaul services to
corporate users in Lagos and other cities. Globacom
plans to launch LTE for mobile users in future.
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). After 2 weeks the
service had been extended to 31 cities.
Zoda Fones is deploying a commercial LTE TDD

network in 2.6 GHz (band 38).
CDMA operator Starcomms is studying deployment
of LTE. A proposal is in development to merge
Starcomms, Multilinks and MTS First Wireless to form
CAPCOM. This new company would seek to refarm
STC commercially launched LTE TDD service in

Riyadh and Dammam on September 14, 2011 in
38
April 7, 2013
band 40 (2.3 GHz). LTE is supported on over 2,500

sites (end 2012). Commercial LTE FDD service using
LTE1800 was introduced in February 2013.
deploying a commercial LTE network and plans to

use 800 MHz and 1800 MHz spectrum.
Telesis Tanzania, a mobile virtual network
aggregator (MVNA) supporting services for a number
of MVNOs, is deploying its own LTE network in digital
dividend spectrum and announced its infrastructure
supplier. The LTE network is planned to cover Dar es
Salaam and Mtwara by October 2013, followed by
phased national roll out.
Zain launched commercial LTE1800 service in

Riyadh, Jeddah, Dammam on September 14, 2011,
planning expansion to all major cities by end 2012.
South Africa
Vodacom commercially launched LTE1800 service
on October 10, 2012 with 70 base stations in
Johannesburg. Vodacom activated 600+ LTE sites by
March 2013 with another 400 planned by end 2013.
Tunisia
Tunisiana is upgrading its network to 3G and LTE.
MTN commercially launched LTE1800 with 500 sites

in Durban, Johannesburg, and Pretoria on December
1, 2012.
UAE
Regulator TRA has informed operators that 2.6 GHz
is available. TRA is studying and planning use of
frequency ranges 694-790 MHz and 790-862 MHz.
Telkom Mobile (formerly 8ta) will use re-farmed 1800

MHz (LTE1800) and also has 70 MHz of 2.3 GHz
TDD spectrum. A free user trial ran in Guateng for the
period November 1, 2012 March 31, 2013.
Etisalat launched commercial LTE service on

September 25, 2011. LTE USB modems were widely
introduced in retail outlets on December 18, 2011.
Etisalat uses 2.6 GHz indoors and 1800 MHz
outdoors in urban and suburban areas and is seeking
800 MHz for nationwide reach. Coverage includes
major cities representing 80% population coverage,
targeting 99% by 2015. Tablets and smartphones
were offered in Q3 2012. VoLTE is planned.
Cell C is deploying LTE in 2.1 GHz. On December

19, 2012 a commercial trial for selected heavy data
users started in Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg
and Pretoria. A limited pre-paid commercial offer for
up to 800 customers was also announced.
CDMA operator Neotel is trialling LTE in Midrand in
own 800 MHz. Neotel also owns 3.5 GHz spectrum.
Du commercially launched LTE1800 on June 12,

2012 and plans 90% population coverage by 2014.
Wireless Business Solutions (WBS), holding

interests in iBurst and Broadlink, plans to deploy LTE.
iBurst has 1800 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum.
Uganda
Smile launched commercial LTE service in Kampala
in October 2012 using 800 MHz (band 20). MTN is
deploying a commercial LTE network.
The Communications Ministry is said to be near the

point where spectrum for LTE could be allocated. 800
MHz spectrum would become available in 2015, while
2.6 GHz could be brought into use immediately.
Zambia
Tanzania
Massnet is deploying a commercial LTE FDD

network and has selected its system supplier. Zamtel
plans to deploy an LTE network and is awaiting a
spectrum allocation.
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.
Zimbabwe
Vodacom announced in January 2013 completion of

an LTE1800 trial in Dar es Salaam. Vodacom is
WiMAX operator Aqiva Wireless is planning to

deploy an LTE network.
39
April 7, 2013
LTE TDD: Global network commitments,

trials, deployments, commercial launches
VoLTE global status
LTE is the single global 3GPP standard that

addresses paired FDD and unpaired TDD spectrum.
The TDD mode is an integral part of the LTE
standard, implementing a maximum of commonalities
with the FDD mode, delivering comparable
performance and similar high spectral efficiency, and
benefiting from global economies of scale with a short
time to market. LTE TDD provides an excellent
evolution path for WiMAX operators.
LTE systems are all-IP, optimized for data transfer.

LTE does not include any circuit switched capability
as used on previous technologies for voice and SMS
services. Since voice and SMS generate in the region
of 70% of operator revenues globally, voice service is
needed on LTE networks. With VoLTE (Voice over
LTE - GSMA specification VoLTE IR.92, based on
3GPP standards), subscribers can use HD voice and
other richer communication services using LTE
smartphones. VoLTE aims to provide a voice service
that is at least as reliable as on current cellular
systems, over an all-IP network in a shared resource
environment. An operator needs an IMS (IP
Multimedia System) core network and the LTE radio
access network and Evolved Packet Core must also
support VoLTE, typically achieved by software
upgrade. The first wave of VoLTE service launches
which include HD voice (W-AMR) has begun - see
Table below. Many operators have committed to
VoLTE deployments or trials in 2013-2014 including:
Country
South Korea
South Korea
Austria
Canada
China
Germany
Hong Kong
India
Japan
Singapore
Slovenia
South Korea
Sweden
UAE
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
Operator
SK Telecom
LG U+
T Mobile
Sasktel
China Mobile
E Plus
CSL
RIL
NTT DoCoMo
StarHub
Telekom Slovenije
KT
Tele2
Etisalat
AT&T
C-Spire
Clearwire
MetroPCS
US Cellular
Sprint
Verizon Wireless
LTE TDD mode is complementary to the FDD mode

and is the perfect choice for providing high speed, low
latency mobile broadband access in unpaired
spectrum. LTE TDD also provides a future-proof
evolution path for TD-SCDMA, another 3GPP
standard, which is widely deployed in China.
While most LTE system deployments use paired
spectrum (FDD), interest in the LTE TDD mode is
strengthening and global. 15 LTE TDD systems are
now commercially launched, including 6 that are
deployed in combined LTE FDD and TDD operations:
VoLTE status
Launched
Launched
Trialling
In deployment
Trialling
Planned
Trialling
Trial planned
Planned
Trial planned
In deployment
In deployment
In deployment
In deployment
In deployment
In deployment
In deployment
In deployment
In deployment
In deployment
In deployment
Country
Australia
Brazil
Brazil
Hong Kong
India
Japan
Oman
Poland
Russia
Russia
S. Arabia
S. Arabia
Sri Lanka
Sweden
UK
Operator
NBN Co.
On Telecomunicacoes
Sky Brazil Services
CMHK FDD & TDD
Bharti Airtel
Softbank XGP/LTE TDD
Omantel FDD & TDD
Aero2 FDD & TDD
Megafon in Moscow
MTS in Moscow
Mobily
STC FDD and TDD
Dialog Axiata FDD & TDD
3 Sweden FDD & TDD
UK Broadband
TDD band
Band 40
Band 38
Band 38
Band 38
Band 40
Band 41
Band 40
Band 38
Band 38
Band 38
Band 38
Band 40
Band 40
Band 38
Band 42,43
Many more operators are deploying commercial LTE

TDD systems, or are engaged in trials and studies.
VoLTE commitments and deployment status

GSA Global mobile Suppliers Association
Join the LTE TDD LINKEDIN group:

1556 Members (07.04.13)
www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=3978061
Source: GSA Mobile HD Voice: Global Update report

www.gsacom.com
40
April 7, 2013
LTE TDD User Devices Ecosystem
LTE1800: LTE deployments in 1800 MHz band
GSA regularly updates the contents of its GAMBoD

database of LTE user devices that have been
officially announced by manufacturers, and the main
findings are published in GSAs Status of the LTE
Ecosystem report. The report published on March 27,
2013 confirmed 821 products (including operator and
frequency variants) announced by 97 manufacturers.
474 new LTE products were announced in the past
year. FDD and TDD (TD-LTE) devices are included.
Multi-band, multi-mode LTE-TDD dongles and CPEs
are commercially available from all major chipset and
device manufacturers.
LTE network deployment in 1800 MHz is a major

trend in many markets. The motivations are clear:
166 devices can operate using the LTE TDD mode,

with band 38 (2.6 GHz) and band 40 (2.3 GHz)
having the largest number. LTE TDD devices are
available in all form factors including smartphones,
dongles, routers, portable hotspots, embedded
modules, and mobile tablets. In the report GSA calls
on semiconductor and device manufacturers to
support the many operators who are deploying or
planning LTE TDD systems in globally available 3.5
GHz spectrum (bands 42, 43) to ensure a good
choice and timely availability of user devices.
Coverage area approx. 2 times 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
Detailed device analysis is possible using GSAs

GAMBoD tool (access restrictions apply see
www.gsacom.com/gambod).
Or subscribe as an Associate of GSA:
www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_368.php
The LTE1800 Zone on www.gsacom.com provides

a vast amount of information about deployment of
LTE in 1800 MHz spectrum, including white papers
by leading vendors plus updates/presentations from
mobile operators, and other resources. Visit the
LTE1800 Zone via the banner on www.gsacom.com
For more information on worldwide LTE TDD operator

commitments, launches, deployments and the
devices ecosystem see this GSA report:
Status of the Global LTE TDD Market
Free download for GSA registered site users via the
link on www.gsacom.com
GSA REPORT: Embracing the 1800MHz

opportunity: Driving mobile forward with LTE in
the 1800MHz band www.gsacom.com/lte1800
LTE TDD related charts and maps are also available.
The report shows from practical, economic and

business perspectives why 1800 MHz emerged as a
prime band for LTE deployments in virtually all
regions of the world, and its importance for
international roaming.
RECOMMENDED WHITE PAPER

LTE in the 3500 MHz band
Download via the link on www.gsacom.com
Key Findings: www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_342.php4
Join the LTE User Devices LinkedIN Group

41
April 7, 2013
74 commercially launched LTE1800 systems
Italy
Japan
Kazakhstan
Kuwait
Kuwait
Latvia
Lithuania
Luxembourg
Luxembourg
Mauritius
Mauritius
Namibia
New Zealand
Norway
Norway
Oman
Oman
Philippines
Philippines
Poland
Poland
Portugal
Portugal
Romania
Romania
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia
Singapore
Singapore
Singapore
Slovak Republic
Slovenia
Slovenia
South Africa
South Africa
South Korea
South Korea
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
Sweden
Switzerland
Tajikistan
UAE
UAE
UK
74 operators have commercially launched LTE1800

(band 3) systems in 43 countries either as a single
band system, or as part of a multi-band deployment.
1800 MHz spectrum is typically refarmed from its
original use for 2G/GSM, facilitated by expanding
technology-neutral licensing environments.
1800 MHz is the most widely used band for LTE
deployments globally. LTE1800 serves millions of
subscribers (Q4 2012 = 14.27 million) on over 45% of
LTE networks today. 1800 MHz is the prime band for
LTE deployments worldwide, and will greatly assist
international roaming for mobile broadband. Mobile
licences for 1800 MHz have been awarded to 350+
operators in nearly 150 countries and many more
LTE1800 LTE network deployments are expected.
Country
Angola
Australia
Australia
Azerbaijan
Bahrain
Bahrain
Belgium
Croatia
Croatia
Czech Republic
Denmark
Denmark
Dominican Republic
Estonia
Estonia
Finland
Finland
Finland
Germany
Greece
Greece
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
Hungary
Hungary
Italy
Italy
Operator
Movicel
Optus
Telstra
Azercell
Batelco
Viva
Proximus
T-Hrvatski
VIPNet
Telefonica O2
3
Telia
Orange Dominicana
EMT
Tele2
DNA
Elisa
TeliaSonera
DT
Cosmote
Vodafone
3HK
CSL Limited
PCCW
Smartone
T-Mobile
Telenor
3 Italia
TIM
Vodafone
eAccess (band 9)
Altel
Viva
Zain
LMT
Omnitel
Tango
Orange
Emtel
Orange
MTC
Vodafone
Telenor
TeliaSonera
Nawras
Omantel
Globe
Smart
Mobyland/CenterNet
Polkomtel
Optimus
Vodafone
Orange
Vodafone
STC
Zain
M1
SingTel
StarHub
Telefonica O2
Mobitel
Si.mobil
Vodacom
MTN
KT
SK Telecom
Dialog Axiata
Mobitel
TeliaSonera
Swisscom
Babilon-Mobile
Du
Etisalat
EE
74 commercially launched LTE1800 systems GSA

April 7, 2013 www.gsacom.com
42
April 7, 2013
LTE1800 User Devices Ecosystem
APT700 Band Plan growing global support
Manufacturers have ensured a wide choice of LTE

user devices that can operate on the 1800 MHz band,
including all the leading brands and most popular
smartphones. The survey of the LTE devices
ecosystem completed by GSA on March 27, 2013
confirmed that 233 LTE1800 devices had been
announced. The number of LTE1800 devices more
than tripled in 12 months. See GSAs Status of the
LTE Ecosystem report which is a free download for
registered site users via the link at www.gsacom.com
As seen in this report, the adoption of the APT700

band plan by a growing number of countries across
the APAC and Latin America regions confirms the
strong momentum and represents a major opportunity
for global spectrum harmonization for LTE systems,
paving the way for ensuring the greatest economies
of scale for devices and capacity for mobile
broadband, and for roaming.
Registration page www.gsacom.com/php/register_form
FDD band plan (2 x 45 MHz plus guardband)

(3GPP Band 28)
703-748 MHz for the uplink
10 MHz guard band
758-803 MHz for the downlink
APT700 MHz band plan (698-806 MHz)
1800 MHz is the dominant band for LTE network

deployments in virtually all regions of the world.
Further analysis of GSAs database of all 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.
TDD band plan

(3GPP Band 44)
703-803 MHz
The FDD plan has attracted the most support.
The GSMA (GSM Association) and GSA organized
an industry roundtable at MWC2013 to discuss the
state of the ecosystem for APT700 band plan
chipsets and user devices to agree on actions that
need to be taken to progress use of this band.
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.
Presentations from the roundtable are available to

download from the GSA website www.gsacom.com sign in and follow the links.
Or subscribe as an Associate of GSA:

www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_368.php
Registration
page
for
new
www.gsacom.com/php/register_form.php4
LTE1800 LinkedIN Group: 1,538 Members (April 7, 2013)

www.linkedin.com/groups?=&gid=3129390
APT700 band: Ericsson presentation

Mikael Haln, Director, Government and Industry Relations
FOR MORE INFORMATION ON WORLDWIDE

LTE1800
OPERATOR
COMMITMENTS,
LAUNCHES, DEPLOYMENTS AND THE DEVICES
ECOSYSTEM SEE THIS RELATED GSA REPORT:
Overview of devices landscape: GSA presentation

Presentation by Alan Hadden, President
users
Further roundtables may be held, and new white

papers will be produced. More details will be included
in future updates of this report.
Status of the Global LTE1800 Market

Free download for GSA registered site users via the
link on www.gsacom.com
Join the APT700 band LINKEDIN group:

43
April 7, 2013
361 LTE commitments in 114 countries
Kuwait
Armenia
Bahrain
Hungary
South Korea
Russia
Canada
USA
Japan
Portugal
Portugal
Portugal
Japan
USA
Croatia
Croatia
USA
Australia
India
Angola
Puerto Rico
Moldova
Sweden
Hong Kong
Hong Kong
USA
USA
Netherlands
Hong Kong
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands
Netherlands
Namibia
USA
Tanzania
UAE
Colombia
Azerbaijan
Czech Rep
Mauritius
Guam
UK
Hungary
Dominican R
Slovenia
USA
Oman
Australia
Mauritius
Slovak Rep
Hong Kong
Poland
Russia
Russia
USA
Singapore
Japan
Japan
Canada
Denmark
Philippines
Luxembourg
Guam
Tajikistan
Norway
South Africa
USA
Mexico
Luxembourg
UK
Uganda
April 7, 2013
www.gsacom.com
GSAs 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 operators 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.
Country
Norway
Sweden
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan
Poland
USA
Austria
Sweden
Sweden
Hong Kong
Finland
Germany
USA
Finland
Denmark
Estonia
Japan
Germany
Philippines
Lithuania
Latvia
Singapore
South Korea
South Korea
Germany
Canada
Austria
USA
Canada
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia
USA
UAE
Australia
Denmark
Austria
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico
Kyrgyzstan
Brazil
Finland
Uruguay
USA
Singapore
Operator
TeliaSonera
TeliaSonera
MTS
UCell
Aero2 LTE FDD (and TDD later)
MetroPCS
A1 Telekom
TeleNor Sweden
Tele2 Sweden
CSL Limited
TeliaSonera
Vodafone
Verizon Wireless
Elisa
TeliaSonera
EMT
NTT DoCoMo
Deutsche Telekom
Smart Communications
Omnitel
LMT
M1
SK Telecom
LG U+
O2 (Telefonica)
Rogers Wireless
T Mobile
Mosaic Telecom
Bell Mobility
Mobily (LTE TDD)
STC LTE TDD later FDD
Zain
AT&T Mobility
Etisalat
Telstra
TDC
3
AT&T Mobility
Claro
Saima Telecom
Sky Brazil (LTE TDD)
DNA
Antel
Leap Wireless/Cricket
SingTel
Launch
Launched 14.12.09
Launched 14.12.09
Launched 28.07.10
Launched 09.08.10
Launched 07.09.10
Launched 21.09.10
Launched 05.11.10
Launched 15.11.10
Launched 15.11.10
Launched 25.11.10
Launched 30.11.10
Launched 01.12.10
Launched 05.12.10
Launched 08.12.10
Launched 09.12.10
Launched 17.12.10
Launched 24.12.10
Launched 05.04.11
Launched 16.04.11
Launched 28.04.11
Launched 31.05.11
Launched 21.06.11
Launched 01.07.11
Launched 01.07.11
Launched 01.07.11
Launched 07.07.11
Launched 28.07.11
Launched Jul 2011
Launched 14.09.11
Launched 14.09.11
Launched 14.09.11
Launched 14.09.11
Launched 18.09.11
Launched 25.09.11
Launched 27.09.11
Launched 10.10.11
Launched 18.11.11
Launched 20.11.11
Launched 24.11.11
Launched 09.12.11
Launched 13.12.11
Launched 13.12.11
Launched 13.12.11
Launched 21.12.11
Launched 22.12.11
44
Viva
Vivacell-MTS
Viva
T Mobile
KT
Yota
Telus
Softbank (XGP/LTE TDD)
TMN (Portugal Telecom)
Vodafone Portugal
Optimus
eAccess
US Cellular
T-Hrvatski Telekom
VIPNet
Panhandle Telephone Co-op
NBN No (LTE TDD)
Bharti Airtel (LTE TDD)
Movicel
Open Mobile
IDC
3 Sweden
China Mobile HK (LTE TDD later)
PCCW
Cellcom
Pioneer Cellular
Vodafone
3 HK
Ziggo
Tele2
KPN
T-Mobile
MTC
BendBroadband
Smile
Du
Une-EPM
Azercell
Telefonica O2
Orange
IT&E
UK Broadband (LTE TDD)
Telenor
Orange Dominicana
Si.mobil
Sprint
Omantel (LTE TDD)
Optus FDD (LTE TDD to follow)
Emtel
Telefonica O2
Smartone
Polkomtel Plus
Megafon (LTE TDD)
MTS (LTE TDD)
C Spire Wireless
StarHub
KDDI
Softbank Mobile
MTS Allstream
3 Denmark
Globe
Tango
DoCoMo Pacific
Babilon Mobile
Telenor
Vodacom
Alaska Communications
Telefonica Movistar
Orange
EE
Smile
Launched 27.12.11
Launched 28.12.11
Launched 01.01.12
Launched 01.01.12
Launched 03.01.12
Launched 15.01.12
Launched 10.02.12
Launched 14.02.12
Launched 24.02.12
Launched 12.03.12
Launched 12.03.12
Launched 15.03.12
Launched 15.03.12
Launched 22.03.12
Launched 23.03.12
Launched 23.03.12
Launched Mar 2012
Launched 02.04.12
Launched 10.04.12
Launched 14.04.12
Launched 19.04.12
Launched 21.04.12
Launched 23.04.12
Launched 25.04.12
Launched 25.04.12
Launched 30.04.12
Launched 30.04.12
Launched 01.05.12
Launched 02.05.12
Launched 03.05.12
Launched 08.05.12
Launched 11.05.12
Launched 11.05.12
Launched 16.05.12
Launched 17.05.12
Launched 30.05.12
Launched 12.06.12
Launched 14.06.12
Launched 19.06.12
Launched 19.06.12
Launched 21.06.12
Launched 28.06.12
Launched 28.06.12
Launched 05.07.12
Launched 09.07.12
Launched 12.07.12
Launched 15.07.12
Launched 16.07.12
Launched 31.07.12
Launched Jul 2012
Launched 02.08.12
Launched 28.08.12
Launched 09.12
Launched 01.09.12
Launched 01.09.12
Launched 10.09.12
Launched 19.09.12
Launched 21.09.12
Launched 21.09.12
Launched 25.09.12
Launched 28.09.12
Launched 28.09.12
Launched 01.10.12
Launched 04.10.12
Launched 06.10.12
Launched 10.10.12
Launched 10.10.12
Launched 12.10.12
Launched 15.10.12
Launched 29.10.12
Launched 30.10.12
Launched Oct 2012
April 7, 2013
Belgium
USA
Antigua-Barb
Italy
Mexico
Italy
Montenegro
USA
Greece
Moldova
USA
Moldova
Romania
Kuwait
France
USA
Estonia
France
Switzerland
South Africa
Romania
Brazil
Angola
Bolivia
Greece
Puerto Rico
Kazakhstan
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
USA
Malaysia
Canada
Italy
Canada
Paraguay
Oman
Paraguay
Bahrain
New Zealand
Brazil
Lithuania
USA
Dominican R
Guam
Slovenia
USA
Andorra
Australia
Australia
Azerbaijan
Bahamas
Bahrain
Belarus
Belgium
Belgium
Brazil
Brazil
Brazil
Chile
Chile
Chile
China
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Denmark
Dominican R
Ecuador
Estonia
France
Ghana
India
Belgacom / Proximus
Bluegrass Cellular
Digicel
Vodafone
Telcel
TIM
Telenor
Sprocket Wireless
Cosmote
Moldcell
Strata Networks
Orange
Vodafone
Zain
Orange
Shentel
Tele2
SFR
Swisscom
MTN
Orange
Claro
Unitel
Entel Movil
Vodafone
Sprint Nextel
Altel
Dialog Axiata LTE TDD later FDD
Mobitel
Thumb Cellular
Maxis
Sasktel
3 Italia
Eastlink
Personal
Nawras
Vox
Batelco
Vodafone
On Telecomunicacoes LTE TDD
Tele2
MiSpot
Tricom
iConnect
Mobitel
T Mobile USA
Andorra Telecom
BigAir
VHA
Azerfon
BTC
Menatelecom (LTE TDD)
BelCel
blite (LTE TDD)
Mobistar
Oi
TIM
VIVO
Claro
Entel PCS
Movistar
China Telecom
Claro
ICE
TeleNor
Emtel
CNT
Elisa
Bouygues Telecom
NITA (LTE TDD)
Aircel (LTE TDD)
Launched 05.11.12
Launched 05.11.12
Launched 06.11.12
Launched 06.11.12
Launched 06.11.12
Launched 07.11.12
Launched 08.11.12
Launched 09.11.12
Launched 16.11.12
Launched 16.11.12
Launched 19.11.12
Launched 20.11.12
Launched 20.11.12
Launched 21.11.12
Launched 22.11.12
Launched 23.11.12
Launched 27.11.12
Launched 28.11.12
Launched 29.11.12
Launched 01.12.12
Launched 12.12.12
Launched 13.12.12
Launched 16.12.12
Launched 16.12.12
Launched 17.12.12
Launched 18.12.12
Launched 25.12.12
Launched 30.12.12
Launched 31.12.12
Launched 12.12
Launched 01.01.13
Launched 31.01.13
Launched 01.02.13
Launched 15.02.13
Launched 08.02.13
Launched 17.02.13
Launched 18.02.13
Launched 27.02.13
Launched 28.02.13
Launched 03.13
Launched 03.13
Launched 14.03.13
Launched 18.03.13
Launched 20.03.13
Launched 20.03.13
Launched 26.03.13
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
India
India
India
Indonesia
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Ireland
Italy
Jordan
Kuwait
Laos
Laos
Lebanon
Lebanon
Lithuania
Malaysia
Malaysia
Malaysia
Malaysia
Malaysia
Malaysia
Malaysia
Monaco
Nepal
Puerto Rico
Qatar
Romania
Russia
Russia
Russia
Russia
Russia
Russia
South Africa
South Africa
South Africa
Spain
Spain
Switzerland
Switzerland
Tanzania
Thailand
Uganda
UK
UK
UK
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
Uzbekistan
Venezuela
Zambia
Bulgaria
China
Poland
Bahamas
Morocco
New Zealand
Poland
Romania
Turks & Caicos
Turks & Caicos
Armenia
Armenia
45
Reliance incl QAP (LTE TDD)

Tikona (LTE TDD)
Videocon
IM2 (LTE TDD)
Hutchison 3
Meteor
O2
Vodafone
Imagine Group (LTE TDD)
Wind
Zain
Wataniya Telecom
Beeline Lao
LTC
Alfa
MTC Touch
Bite
Celcom
DiGi
U Mobile
P1 Networks (LTE TDD)
Asiaspace (LTE TDD)
REDtone
YTL Communications Yes
Monaco Telecom
Nepal Telecom (LTE TDD)
T Mobile
Qtel
Cosmote
Antares Group
Osnova Telecom (LTE TDD)
Rostelecom (FDD and TDD)
Tele2
Vainakh Telecom (LTE TDD)
Vimpelcom
8ta
Cell C
WBS (iBurst)
COTA (LTE TDD)
Orange
Orange
Sunrise
Telesis
True Move
MTN
Hutchison 3
O2
Vodafone
BayRICS
CenturyLink
Clearwire (LTE TDD)
Copper Valley Telecom
Cross Telephone
NorthwestCell
nTelos Wireless
VTel Wireless
West Central Wireless
Beeline
Digitel
Massnet
M-Tel
China Mobile (LTE TDD)
ERA/T-Mobile
CBL
Inwi
Telecom New Zealand
Milmex (LTE TDD)
2K Telecom
Digicel
Islandcom
Armentel
Orange Armenia
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013
2013-14
2013-14
2013-14
2014
2014
2014
2014
2014
2014
2014
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
April 7, 2013
Australia
Austria
Azerbaijan
Bahrain
Belarus
Belize
Belgium
Belgium
Bhutan
Canada
China
Colombia
Costa Rica
Costa Rica
Croatia
DRC
Egypt
Egypt
Equat Guinea
El Salvador
Ethiopia
Finland
France
Germany
Germany
Ghana
Guatemala
Hong Kong
Indonesia
Indonesia
Indonesia
Iraq
Iraq
Israel
Italy
Jamaica
Jersey
Kazakhstan
Kiribati
Latvia
Latvia
Libya
Luxembourg
Madagascar
Myanmar
Montenegro
Namibia
Nepal
Nicaragua
Nigeria
Nigeria
Nigeria
Panama
Paraguay
Philippines
Poland
Puerto Rico
Romania
Russia
Rwanda
Slovak Rep
Spain
Spain
Spain
Sri Lanka
Taiwan
Taiwan
Tanzania
Tunisia
Uruguay
UK
EnergyAustralia Ausgrid
Orange
Bakcell
Zain
BeST (Life)
BTL
BUCD (LTE TDD)
KPN Base
Bhutan Telecom
Videotron
Velatel-Aerostrong (LTE TDD)
Tigo
IBW International (LTE TDD)
Movistar
Velatel (LTE TDD)
Smile
Etisalat Misr
Vodafone
Guineanet
Ethio Telecom
Datame (LTE TDD)
Bollore Telecom (LTE TDD)
DBD (LTE TDD)
E Plus
Glo Mobile
21 Vianet Group (LTE TDD)
Indosat
Telkomsel
XL Axiata
MaxyTel (LTE TDD)
Regional Telecom
Cellcom
Linkem (LTE TDD)
Claro
Clear Mobitel
Kcell
TSKL
Bite
Tele2
Al Madar
P&T
Blueline (LTE TDD)
Myanmar P & T
Velatel (LTE TDD)
Telecom Namibia (including Leo)
Ncell
Globacom
Visafone Communications
Zoda Fones (LTE TDD)
Cable and Wireless
Tigo
Bayan Telecommunications
PTK Centertel (Orange)
Aeronet (LTE TDD)
RCS & RDS
Smoltelecom (LTE TDD)
KT Corp Government JV
Orange
Telefnica
Vodafone
Yoigo
Etisalat
Global Mobile (LTE TDD)
CHT (LTE FDD and/or TDD)
Vodacom
Tunisiana
Dedicado (LTE TDD)
NSV (BT) (FDD and TDD)
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
USA
Vietnam
Venezuela
Venezuela
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Aircell
Appalachian Wireless
Carolina West Wireless
Chariton Valley Comms
Chat Mobility
Custer Telephone
ETC
Etex Telephone Co-op
Commnet Wireless
Convergence Technologies
Lightsquared
Matanuska Telephone Assoc
MTPCS
Sagebrush Cellular (Nemont)
O2 Secure Wireless
PVT
S and R Communications
S&T Telephone Cooperative
SGRITA
SpeedConnect
Texas Energy Network
United Wireless
Public Service Wireless
City of Charlotte Council
RusViet Telecom
Movilmax (LTE TDD)
Movistar
Zamtel
Aqiva Wireless
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
To be confirmed
54 pre-commitment LTE trials, studies

Country
Abkhaz
Afghanistan
Argentina
Argentina
Azerbaijan
Belarus
Belgium
Botswana
Brazil
Brazil
Brazil
Bulgaria
Canada
Canada
China
Czech Republic
Egypt
Egypt
Georgia
India
India
India
Indonesia
Isle of Man
Kenya
Latvia
Latvia
Kazakhstan
46
Operator
Aquafon
Etisalat
Telefonica
Personal
Sazz (LTE TDD)
MTS
Telenet
Mascom Wireless
Algar Telecom (CTBC)
Sao Paulo Military Police
Army trials planned
Vivacom
Wind Mobile
Xplornet (LTE TDD)
Unicom
T-Mobile trials July September 2012
Mobinil
Umniah LTE trials completed
Magticom
BSNL study phase LTE TDD
MTNL study phase LTE TDD
SSTL studying LTE800 (CDMA band)
Bakrie Telecom
Manx Telecom
Essar Telecom (Yu) study phase
Triatel
Lattelecom
Beeline
April 7, 2013
Kazakhstan
Kenya
New Zealand
New Zealand
Nigeria
Nigeria
Peru
Qatar
Russia
Russia
Slovak Republic
Spain
Spain
South Africa
Taiwan
Tele2
Safaricom
Kordia study phase
Woosh study phase
Airtel Nigeria Lagos trials completed
Starcomms study phase
Telefonica
Vodafone Qatar
Enforta test network LTE TDD
SMARTS
T-Mobile Slovensko
Neo-Sky study phase LTE TDD
R conducting LTE TDD trials
Neotel
FarEasTone - trials
Taiwan
Thailand
Thailand
Turkey
Turkey
Ukraine
USA
USA
Vietnam
Vietnam
Vietnam
Fitel (LTE TDD)

DPC/AIS
AIS TOT
Avea
Turkcell
MTS-Ukraine
Dish Network seeking FCC approval
ISICSB
FPT Telecom
VDC (VNPT)
Viettel

April 7, 2013 www.gsacom.com
821 LTE User Devices March 27, 2013

GSA regularly updates the contents of its GAMBoD database of LTE user devices that have been officially
announced by manufacturers, and the main findings are published in GSAs Status of the LTE Ecosystem report.
The report published on March 27, 2013 confirmed 821 products (including operator and frequency variants)
announced by 97 manufacturers. 474 new LTE user devices were announced in the past year. FDD and TDD (TDLTE) devices are included. Press release: www.gsacom.com/news/gsa_374.php
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 regularly for updates.
LTE User Devices LinkedIN Group
Worldwide LTE subscriptions: 68.33 million Q4 2012

Download LTE subscriptions growth charts from the GSA website as JPEG files at www.gsacom.com/news/statistics.php4
OR as a PDF file on www.gsacom.com via the link to LTE subscriptions growth to Q4 2012
Upcoming leading conferences supported by GSA .. where LTE will be discussed

LTE Forum 2013, Istanbul: April 9-10, 2013
Chaired by Alan Hadden, President, GSA
Website: www.lteforum2013.com/istanbul
LTE Russia and CIS 2013, Moscow: May 28-29

Presentation by GSA
Website: www.comnews-conferences.ru/lte2013eng?Itemid=1093
All GSA supported events www.gsacom.com/events/index.php4 GSA Member discounts apply for most events
47
April 7, 2013
More LTE resources from GSA
www.gsacom.com
Map: Worldwide LTE network commitments, launches and trials (GSA)
CHART: Spectrum used in commercially launched LTE FDD networks (GSA)
Status of the Global LTE TDD Market report (GSA)
Status of the Global LTE1800 Market report (GSA)
Operator Viewpoint presentations - various
LTE Security Overview (by Charles Brookson, Security Expert)
The future of WCDMA/HSPA - Delivering exceptional MBB user experience everywhere

(New white paper, Ericsson)
VoLTE power consumption (New white paper Renesas Mobile)
The Business Benefits of 4G LTE (A D Little / EE report)
LTE in the 3500MHz Band (3400-3800MHz) (White paper Huawei)
1000X Challenge Spectrum Innovations (Presentation Qualcomm Inc.)
LTE Broadcast a revenue enabler in the mobile media era

(New white paper, Ericsson)
Delivering Public Safety Communications with LTE

(White paper, Netovate WP on behalf of 3GPP)
GSA (Global mobile Suppliers Association) represents GSM/EDGE/WCDMA-HSPA/LTE suppliers, providing reports, facts,
analysis and information explaining market developments and trends. GSA brings together a global industry community of
stakeholders including over 56,000 registered website users for dialog, knowledge gathering, sharing of key facts, trends, and
analysis. Approaching 14,000 people use our social network platforms. Register for updates, reports, information papers,
maps, charts, etc. at www.gsacom.com/php/register_form.php4
GSA Secretariat
Press: press@gsacom.com
General: info@gsacom.com
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-mobileSuppliers-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 info@gsacom.com
Comments about this report or updates are welcome to info@gsacom.com

ETSI has registered LTE as a trademark for the benefit of the 3GPP Partners. GSA is a Market Representation Partner in 3GPP
48

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Evolution to LTE Report

This report and all related materials and resources

LTE Market Summary April 7, 2013

Details are also provided about LTE user devices

Information for the production of this report was

361 operator commitments in 114 countries

GSA forecasts 248 commercial LTE networks

GSA re-affirms LTE as the fastest developing

Comments about the report including news/updates

LTE is a mainstream technology and rapid

Selected charts and maps are also available as PDF

The phase in which a public telecommunications operator

Readers may also download these related reports:

Status of the LTE Ecosystem report

Evolution to LTE Report

163 commercial LTE networks in 67 countries

TMN (Portugal Telecom)

Evolution to LTE Report

GSA Global mobile Suppliers Association www.gsacom.com

3GPP LTE is a single global

Spectrum for LTE deployments

Evolution to LTE Report

LTE TDD Systems

Design targets for the first LTE deployments include:

Most LTE deployments use paired spectrum (FDD).

LTE radio network products incorporate several

LTE Advanced Systems

Improvements in latency, capacity, throughput

The resulting evolved packet system comprizes the

Evolution to LTE Report

Worth, Detroit, Boston, Sacramento and New York.

LTE Advanced capabilities

LTE networks, developments global round-up

Pioneer Cellular launched commercial LTE service

On September 21, 2010 regional carrier MetroPCS

Evolution to LTE Report

(brand of Cross Telephone) commercially launched

LTE-based public safety system is intended to be

AT&T Mobility commercially launched LTE service

C Spire Wireless holds 700 MHz band 12 spectrum

T-Mobile USA commercially launched LTE service

CDMA operator Alaska Communications (ACS)

Bay Area Regional Interoperable Communications

Clearwire Corp. is deploying LTE TDD in 2496

Evolution to LTE Report

committed to deploy an LTE overlay, incorporating

provide high-capacity connectivity on the combined

Sprint commercially launched LTE FDD service on

In March 2012 the FCC issued a Notice of Proposed

Softbank (Japan) plans to buy 70% of Sprint Nextel

Rural CDMA operator Mosaic Telecom (NW

As part of a $32.1 million stimulus grant, Commnet

Evolution to LTE Report

Network operators Etex Telephone Cooperative,

US Cellular in partnership with King Street Wireless

Panhandle (PTCI) owns spectrum covering six

O2 Secure Wireless, an Internet communications

On January 25, 2011 the FCC mandated LTE for first

Public Service Wireless is deploying a 700 MHz

The City of Charlotte Council awarded a contract in

Texas Energy Network (TEN) is deploying an LTE

On April 26, 2012 two key members of the House

United Wireless has added LTE to its CDMA