Airtel launched 4G on mobile in Bengaluru based on 2300 MHz TDD-LTE (Band 40) back in February 2014, after rolling out the service for dongles and CPEs in 2012. Today the company has rolled out 4G services in the 1800 MHz (Band 3) spectrum band using FDD-LTE technology.
This will allow customers in Bengaluru to use dual spectrum bands of 2300 MHz and 1800 MHz so that users can get better network coverage and data speeds. Bengaluru is one of the few cities to get support for dual spectrum bands, similar to Delhi. Airtel offers 4G services using 1800 MHz band in India.
Last year Airtel launched its Rs. 60,000 crore network transformation and expansion program ‘Project Leap’ aimed at improving network quality.
Airtel 4G is now available across 130 towns in Karnataka.
Commenting on the launch, C. Surendran, CEO – Karnataka, Bharti Airtel Limited said:
Today’s launch is a major milestone for Airtel in Bangalore. We gave the city its first 4G network and have received very good response from customers. Given the explosive growth of mobile data services and content consumed on mobiles, the addition of a second 4G carrier will surely add to the experience of the customers on our network. Airtel has also rolled out the widest 4G network in Karnataka with services now available in 130 towns. We remain committed to the digital vision of the state.