State Commission Approves Existing Frequencies for Next-Gen Networks
The State Commission for Radio Frequencies (SCRF) has officially granted permission to major Russian telecommunication operators to utilize their existing LTE frequencies for the deployment of fifth-generation (5G) networks. This decision, confirmed by the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media of the Russian Federation (Mintsifry), paves the way for the implementation of high-speed mobile communications across Russia.
Potential Compatibility Issues for Foreign Smartphones
Despite the advancement in infrastructure development, there is a possibility that foreign-made smartphones may encounter compatibility issues, potentially leaving them without support for Russian 5G networks. This could necessitate updates or specific configurations for users of international devices to fully leverage the new connectivity capabilities.
Rollout Expected in Major Cities
The benefits of this new technology are anticipated to first reach residents of large urban centers, including cities with populations exceeding one million. The authorization to use already established LTE frequencies is expected to significantly accelerate the construction and operational launch of 5G infrastructure, reducing the need for the allocation of new, costly frequency bands.
This is interesting news, especially the part about using existing LTE frequencies. I’ve been testing some early 5G deployments here in Moscow with my Pixel, and while the speeds are decent, the coverage is still spotty, mostly limited to very central areas. I’m curious if this new approach will improve that, or if we’ll just see more congestion on those shared bands. My main concern is the compatibility issue for foreign phones; that could really fragment the user experience. My tip would be to check your phone’s specific band support before getting too excited, especially if you’re not on a Russian-specific model.