The carrier claimed to be the first operator to launch 5G standalone technology in Argentina.
Telecom Argentina said it has already activated 68 5G antennas using the 3.5 GHz band in different cities in the country.
The telco claimed to be the first operator to launch 5G standalone technology in the country. Telecom Argentina’s first 5G Stand Alone (5G SA) antenna was deployed in the metropolitan area of Greater Buenos Aires (AMBA).
The telco also noted that it recently installed seven antennas in the seaside cities of Mar del Plata, Pinamar and Carrillo using spectrum bid in an auction. Additionally, the carrier had already deployed his 10 5G sites equipped with 5G using Dynamic Spectrum Sharing (DSS) technology in these three coastal cities.
The carrier also said it has activated 311 antennas for the provision of 5G using DSS technology, which will be gradually updated to the new spectrum.
The company previously said that more than 1 million customers own mobile phones eligible for 5G SA technology.
“After investing more than $350 million, we have acquired a 100 MHz block of the 3.5 GHz spectrum band, which will allow us to expand our 5G network, which we started building in 2021. , an important milestone that will make all possibilities possible.” We set a course for the constant evolution of our infrastructure, based on a solid and continuous investment plan that embodies our commitment to the country and its people. ”Telecom Argentina previously said.
The carrier also confirmed that it would be rolling out 5G SA infrastructure in major cities across the country in a phased manner, although it did not provide details.
Telecom Argentina operates a mobile phone division under the Personal brand.
In October, Argentine carriers Claro, Movistar and Personal secured spectrum to offer 5G services in a government-run tender.
The government got $875 million for spectrum, which was less than the $1.05 billion originally expected.
Claro is owned by Mexican telecommunications group America Movil. Movistar is owned by Spanish telecommunications company Telefonica, and Personal is owned by Telecom Argentina.
National Communications Entity (Enacom) announced that Claro acquired the first block of 100 MHz in the 3.3-3.4 GHz band for $350 million, while Personal acquired the first block of 100 MHz in the 3.4-3.5 GHz band for $300 million. The band promised to pay $50 million. Meanwhile, Movistar secured a 50 MHz block in the 3.55-3.6 GHz band for $175 million. The regulator said another block of 50 megahertz in the 3.5 GHz band remains vacant.
According to local reports, the 50 MHz that remains vacant could become part of a future tender that includes other bands considered suitable for 5G technology, or that the 100 MHz of 3.6-3.7 GH already It has been suggested that it could be allocated directly to the acquiring state-owned company Arsat. Forming a band through government resolution.
Argentina’s 5G subscribers are expected to reach 34.7 million by 2030, up from 5.7 million in 2025, according to a report by telecommunications association GSMA.
According to a GSMA report, 5G penetration in Argentina is expected to reach 9% by 2025 and expand to 48% by 2030.
The GSMA also pointed out that 5G networks will cover 84% of Argentina’s population by 2030, up from 38% in 2025.
