Thailand's first 4G long-term evolution (LTE) broadband trial kicked off yesterday in Bangkok and Maha Sarakham province hosted by the country's largest mobile operator, Advanced Info Service (AIS).
Somchai Lertsutiwong (left), AIS’s executive vice-president for marketing, shows a 4G aircard with chief executive Wichian Mektrakarn showing his approval.
The non-commercial 100-Mbps wireless broadband service was supported by TOT Plc, the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Ministry and the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC).
AIS will join TOT to provide 4G service using LTE technology on the 2.3-gigahertz spectrum. The company will use 20 of TOT's total of 64-MHz bandwidth during the trial. Some 20 4G base stations are located in central Bangkok.
AIS is simultaneously introducing another non-commercial trial with CAT Telecom to provide 4G service on the state enterprise's 1800-MHz spectrum. Eight cell sites were installed in Maha Sarakham.
AIS chief executive Wichian Mektrakarn said the move strengthens its position in new technology. He added 43 operators worldwide provide both 3G and 4G services simultaneously.
4G service enables users to enjoy live broadcasting with high-definition video quality, with speeds ranging from 70 to 100 Mbps, seven times faster than 3G, said Mr Wichian.
Col Sethapong Malisuwan, vice-chairman of the NBTC, said even though 4G is untested, the trial should help the country's infrastructure development and drive consumer demand.
The NBTC has allowed all mobile operators to apply for 4G testing, but only AIS applied.
Thailand still has not licensed 3G service, but the NBTC plans to hold a licence auction by mid-year, he added.
The 4G trial should encourage the two state telecom enterprises, TOT and CAT, to return their unused frequencies back to NBTC for reallocation.
The NBTC plans to discuss with TOT the recall of 64 MHz of its 2.3-GHz frequency for a 4G licence auction.
"If the TOT agrees, Thailand could have 4G service by 2013 or 2014," he said.