Support for telcos to offer of faster data speeds, ahead of nationwide rollout of 5G standalone networks.
Singapore’s Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) will support Mobile Network Operators’ (MNOs) plan to ride on existing 4G networks to deploy 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) networks. This will be part of trials to allow consumers to enjoy partial 5G experiences in the short-term, with faster mobile speeds as a key feature.
Singapore remains on track to deploy two nationwide 5G standalone networks by 2025, with 5G SA capabilities1 covering at least half of Singapore by end-2022.
In the interim, MNOs have indicated an interest in using Non-Standalone (NSA) networks2 as a short-term and transitory arrangement, while the SA networks are being deployed. Riding on existing 4G networks, the 5G NSA networks will enable consumers to enjoy some 5G benefits such as faster mobile speeds on 5G-enabled devices.
Based on IMDA’s approval, operators will be allowed to conduct market trials and offer some early commercial 5G services to consumers. Meanwhile, IMDA will work closely with MNOs to develop a regulatory framework that ensures a smooth transition from NSA to the eventual SA networks.
When ready by 2025, 5G SA networks will support the growth of a thriving innovation ecosystem that fuels the creation of a diverse range of 5G applications and use-cases across various industries, including remote surgery, autonomous vehicles, and cloud gaming. With a vibrant 5G ecosystem in place, Singapore can build a strong Digital Economy for the future and reinforce our position as a leading business and connectivity hub in the region and beyond.
Lew Chuen Hong, chief executive at IMDA, said the agency has made good progress on our journey to roll out the future-ready full-fledged 5G SA networks critical to maintaining Singapore’s competitive edge.
“We welcome, and are supportive of our operators’ interest to make incremental investment in the meantime and leverage 5G NSA technology to offer their customers some early 5G benefits such as faster mobile broadband experience while they build their SA network,” he said. “These 5G NSA capabilities will also enable them to work with industry to develop early innovative business use cases to meet early demand.”
