Telecom

South Africa: Telkom not really interested in commercial 5G for the time being

South Africa: Telkom not really interested in commercial 5G for the time being
Thursday, 09 May 2019 18:23

South African telecommunications operator Telkom is not interested in the commercial launch of the 5G. According to information reported by Business Insider SA, the operator estimates that the 5G technology whose availability period is not known will be more expensive than the 4G.

Telkom seems to be of the opinion that investing in this technology is not really profitable because the 5G-compatible devices will be really expensive and few people will be able to afford them.  

In addition, in a really competitive market, it is not that wise to take the path. Indeed, for Telkom, already mishandled by Vodacom and MTN in the 3G and 4G network, going into the 5G will be an unprofitable venture.  

Competitors are already impatient to put all their energies to obtain the 5G market. New competitors such as Rain and Comsol Networks will also make the market tough because they have all tested the 5G tech.  

Even though the commercialization of the 5G is not yet one of its immediate priorities as it is for competitors, Telkom is planning 5G tests later this year to determine whether its technical capabilities would be able to offer this technology to subscribers.  

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