The new 5G network in Hungary uses the spectrum in the 3.6 GHz frequency range
Last week, Magyar Telekom and Ericsson officially brought 5G to Hungary, launching intial services in parts of Budapest, the town of Zalaegerszeg and Magyar Telekom’s headquarters in Könyves Kálmán körút. The collaboration is an extension of a longstanding partnership that already included the establishment of 2G, 3G and 4G networks.
The new 5G network uses the spectrum in the 3.6 GHz frequency range that Magyar Telekom’s recently acquired in the country’s spectrum auction on March 26, which raised $400 million.
According to Tibor Rékasi, CEO, Magyar Telekom, the operator has been making 5G arrangements for a long time, including working with Ericsson on the operation of a six-month 5G test network.
“This enables us to launch commercial service quickly after receiving the frequency license,” Rékasi said. “5G provides our customers with higher data rates and low latency, as well as connection of many new devices, and 5G will become a platform for new applications and opportunities for both industries and individuals.”
Arun Bansal, president Europe and Latin America, Ericsson, pointed out that now is the perfect time to establish a 5G network, adding that mobile networks are particularly critical during a time of crisis, speaking, of course, about the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
“We are all relying on them to stay connected and safe, from emergency and health services to family communication. 5G opens possibilities like never before, from remote medical care, instant emergency services, drones delivering supplies, all of which can support society during a pandemic,” he stated.
By the end of the year, explained Rékasi, Magyar Telekom expects to have further increased its 5G regional coverage significantly.
