Vodafone has launched its 4G LTE services in Kozhikode (Calicut), Kerala, almost a month after launching LTE services in the country starting from Kochi. It is based on 1800MHz FDD-LTE band 3, which the company acquired last year. Its 4G service in Kozhikode is built over fibre backhaul, and is supported by its 3G services on a network of 2100 MHz. Vodafone is offering free 4G upgrade with a SIM and additional data for first three months.
According to a ET report, Vodafone 4G SIMs are already available at its exclusive stores in Mumbai, so the launch is expected soon. It is also expected to launch in Kolkata, Bengaluru and Delhi by March 2016.
Commenting on the launch, Abhijit Kishore, Business Head –Kerala, Vodafone India, said:
We are proud and delighted to bring our 4G services to Kozhikode. 4G has the potential to revolutionize the mobile experience through powerful innovation that impacts how we work and live. Vodafone’s global expertise and experience of largest 4G network having presence across 19 countries gives us a better understanding of this technology and the needs of the 4G customer.
Kerala is a significant growth market for Vodafone India with data revenue growing over 75% annually, which is well above the national average. With this launch, we are happy to announce that our 4G footprint in Kerala has increased to 14 towns. We are also proud to be the first operator in the country to now offer international roaming on 4G.