4G5GWorld has a new home now. Visit TelecomGrid for new stories and blogs!
Tele2 launches LTE pilot in Netherlands
Telecom Operator Tele2 has launched an LTE test network in Netherlands. The MVNO has built a trial mobile network in parts of Diemen and Amsterdam based on LTE technology, enabling connection speeds of up to 100 Mbps downstream and 50 Mbps upload, Telecompaper reports.
Tele2 was one of the top bidders in the April Dutch auction of 2.6GHz spectrum alongwith Ziggo/UPC. Tele2 paid EUR 400,000 for 2x20MHz in the 2545-2565 MHz band paired with the 2665-2685 MHz band. Tele2 already operates a MVNO in the Netherlands, which had 383,000 customers at the end of March.
However in the coming years no nationwide LTE network build up would happen. Tele2 is waiting for other spectrum auctions.
"There are too many masts needed. Furthermore, we will not invest hundreds of millions of euros while other frequencies will soon be auctioned," Gunther Vogelpoel, managing director for Tele2 Netherlands told to Tweakers.net.
In the coming years more bands will be available Including space in the 800MHz and 900MHz bands will be available.The auction would take place in 2012 and 2013. Nationwide LTE network is not expected before 2013 or 2014.