GCC Telecom Summit Panel to Unlock Full 5G-A Potential
As the telecommunications sector moves toward the future, the evolution from 5G to 5G-Advanced (5G-A) is progressing rapidly. Global operators have recently undertaken large-scale upgrades, enhancing network capacity significantly. These advancements are leading to improved consumer experiences, ultra-low-latency services, and new revenue opportunities.
GCC Telecom Operators Advancing 5G-A Technology
Telecom players in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), including Zain KSA, Ooredoo Kuwait, and stc Kuwait, are at the forefront of deploying 5G-A networks. These upgrades include:
- Multi-carrier aggregation
- Massive MIMO technology
- Carrier aggregation with C-band or 3.5 GHz
- 5G Standalone (SA) infrastructure
These initiatives are propelling the region towards ultra-fast connectivity. In the UAE, du’s 5G+ and e&’s 5.5G show significant progress. Mainstream devices from brands like Apple and Samsung now support 5G-A, boasting peak downlink speeds of up to 5 Gbps per user.
5G-A Adoption Statistics
Globally, China has surpassed 50 million 5G-A users, while the GCC has deployed over 10,000 5G-A sites. Together, the UAE and Kuwait have exceeded one million commercial users, indicating a clear trend towards full-scale commercialization of this technology.
Upcoming Telecom Review Leaders’ Summit
The upcoming Telecom Review Leaders’ Summit will delve into these developments. Scheduled for December 10th, the summit will feature a panel discussion on “5G-Advanced Monetization in the GCC.” Key stakeholders in the telecom ecosystem, including operators and technology partners, will congregate to discuss unlocking business potential through 5G-A.
Focus on Sustainable Network Development
The approach to 5G-A network construction varies globally. Operators are increasingly adopting strategies tailored to offer personalized services and speed-tiered plans. This adaptation aims to enhance customer attraction and retention in an evolving digital landscape.
Inter-industry Collaboration and Regulation
5G-A is also fostering collaboration across various sectors including automotive, healthcare, and smart manufacturing. This shift raises discussions about how regulatory bodies can encourage partnerships that facilitate adoption and ensure interoperability.
Future Directions in 5G-A
Experts at the summit will explore ongoing 5G-A deployment and investment priorities. They will analyze new features such as:
- Up to 10× capacity
- Enhanced uplink rates
- Precision positioning technologies
This analysis will help establish a roadmap towards comprehensive 5G-A coverage by 2026. 5G-A has the potential to unlock diverse applications in consumer, enterprise, industrial, and entertainment sectors.
AI and the Transformation of Service Delivery
The convergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with 5G-A is redefining service delivery. This integration enables operators to enhance network efficiency and create personalized offerings. As consumer expectations evolve, operators can leverage 5G-A innovations to differentiate their services and drive sustainable growth.
The Role of Vendors in 5G-A Implementation
Vendors are critical to realizing the 5G-A vision. Their innovations in radio access equipment and AI-driven network software are crucial for enabling operators to achieve significant enhancements. Moreover, device and chipset manufacturers are essential in harnessing the full capabilities of 5G-A.
The summit will also address the current deployment status of Three-Carrier Aggregation (3CC) terminals in the GCC. Collaboration among operators, device makers, and chipset manufacturers will be pivotal in the successful commercialization of 5G-A applications.
As the industry evolves, the focus is shifting from mere coverage to optimizing user experiences and monetization opportunities. The panel on “5G-Advanced Monetization in the GCC” will present insights on aligning efforts among regulators, operators, and vendors to develop profitable and sustainable business models in this growing landscape.
