Entel activates the first stage of its 5G network and starts the commercial offer of services with this technology in the country

The wait is over. Less than a year after being awarded the spectrum it required for the development of 5G in the country, Entel officially began the operation of the first stage of its fifth-generation network. With this, all its pre and postpaid customers who have 5G terminals enabled (today they total about 47,500), will be able to access this technology in those places where this network is initially deployed and whose coverage will gradually grow over the next few years. According to what the company has reported, thanks to the progress and after receiving the respective authorizations from the Undersecretariat of Telecommunications, with this launch they are already in a position to deliver 5G services in important areas of the Metropolitan Region and progress is being made in the deployment in different regions. Thus, from today inhabitants of 33 communes of the Metropolitan Region, such as Renca, La Pintana, Providencia and Santiago, as well as some communes of regions, will have 5G in their lives through the Entel network. Currently there are already models of smartphones of different brands compatible with this technology and at various prices. “5G is key for us and we want as many people as possible to access this technology, but it is important to note that network deployment and terminal availability will be gradual, and its development across the country will take time. Our commitment from Entel is to bring the benefits of this technology to everyone in the country,” said Entel’s general manager, Antonio Büchi.InvestmentDuring the last years, Entel has been preparing for the arrival of 5G, making important investments in improvements to the 4G network and in the deployment of Fiber Optics, both infrastructures necessary for the deployment of the fifth generation network. In this line, and to respond to the important requirements of telecommunications infrastructure demanded by 5G, the company announced an estimated initial investment of US $ 230 million in three years. In fact, only during this year it is contemplated to deploy more than 400 antennas, increasing in coverage during 2022 and 2023. This will cover more than 313 communes, advancing in 5G connectivity in the 16 regions of Chile.Likewise, it is projected that once the deployment of this network is completed in 2023, Entel will have illuminated various facilities that fulfill relevant roles for society, such as 199 hospitals, 24 ministries, 16 Intendencies, 15 airports or aerodromes, 19 ports, seven centres of scientific interest and 25 universities or institutions of higher education.” As it consolidates, 5G will bring unthinkable advances in matters as diverse as industry, health, transportation and education, directly impacting the quality of life of people and the development of our country, “added the general manager of Entel.More information about 5G in entel.cl/5G.

Original source in Spanish