To give fillip to innovation and boost emerging technologies, including Internet of Things (IoT), in Singapore, frequency fees for the fifth generation mobile networks (5G) trials will be waived with immediate effect, asserted Yacob Ibrahim, Minister for Communications and Information in Singapore today.
The Minister made the announcement at the opening ceremony of Infocomm Media Business Exchange held at Marina Bay Sands. Info-communications Media Development Authority (IMDA) will waive off the frequency fees for 5G trials.
Speaking at the venue, Dr Yacob, said, “IMDA will seek industry views of 5G spectrum requirements and regulatory provisions and feedback on how policies can move in accordance with technology.” The consultation period started from today and continue till July 7.
He added, “To further multiply the potential of IoT and to further fuel the digital economy, IMDA will be partnering the industry to develop and put in place key components of future-ready and resilient communications infrastructure that will benefit consumers and businesses across various sectors.”
5G will bring rapid transformation in communication technology offering blazing speed compared to 4G, with projected speeds anywhere between 1 to 10Gbps. 5G is expected to be rolled out by 2020.
Presently, the fastest mobile network in Singapore gives speed of 450Mbps, but median 4G speeds range from 16 to 18Mbps.
Issuing a press statement, IMDA said, “5G trials conducted by mobile network operators in Singapore have shown promising capabilities and the move to waive frequency fees will lower regulatory barriers for companies, as well as encourage the industry to explore the potential benefits and applications of 5G.”
The Authority has already identified several spectrum bands that could be suitable for 5G in Singapore. Additionally, it is considering developing regulations to support the deployment of spectrum aggregation technologies that could help mobile network operators increase mobile data speeds and overall network capacity.