The landscape of 5G network expansion is rapidly evolving, with India emerging as a frontrunner while Europe lags. Ivan Razon, Vice President of Strategy and Corporate Affairs at Ericsson, recently divulged compelling data on the standalone availability of 5G between May 2022 and August 2023. The progress showcased a remarkable expansion of 5G infrastructure in India during this period, outpacing the developments observed in Europe.

According to a high-ranking official, India has achieved an exceptional milestone in the 5G network rollout, securing its position among the top three countries globally with the largest 5G installed base. The pace of 5G expansion in India sets records, demonstrating a remarkable feat in telecommunications history. Moreover, India boasts superior 5G download speeds, surpassing those of many developed countries.

The satisfaction of telecom companies with the progress of 5G in India is evident. While acknowledging the strides made, senior officials emphasize that there is still much ground to cover. Despite the remarkable achievements, telecom companies remain committed to supporting India’s digital transformation across various sectors, including industry, society, and public services.

In a recent virtual inauguration, Union Telecom Minister Ashwini Vaishnav marked the commencement of a 6G lab by a leading mobile network company. The lab’s objective is to expedite the development of technology and use cases based on 6G, catering to society’s and industry’s future needs. This collaborative platform will facilitate industry stakeholders in testing innovative solutions and assessing their potential for commercialization.

Notably, the integration of sensors into the network has been identified as a pivotal enabling technology. These sensors, operating on wireless networks and fueled by communication services, play a crucial role in bridging the digital and physical realms. The approach has garnered appreciation, with the UN body ITU’s study group commending India’s vision for universal coverage under this technology during its meeting in Geneva last month.

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