JT announced last week it had signed a deal with Chinese firm ZTE to build the first 5G mobile network in the Channel Islands, which it hopes will be in operation by 2021.
Now contracts are signed, JT will work on the new network, aiming to launch a test service during 2019.
Similarly, Sure and Airtel-Vodafone have said 2019 is the target for testing the network in the Bailiwick as well.
‘Airtel-Vodafone is already in advanced discussions with our network partner Nokia with regard to making 5G available to our customers,’ said CEO Sid Ahlawat.
‘5G test sites will be live on our network across both islands in 2019.’
Justin Bellinger, chief digital officer at Sure, said feedback from stakeholders at its showcase events in September shaped their 5G plan.
‘We’re currently going through the complex process of selecting a lead supplier, taking into account changing security considerations, with the intention of launching a trial 5G network in the Bailiwick in 2019.’
Options are being considered on how to roll out a solution with minimal community disruption.
Mr Bellinger said the Sure team is ‘hugely excited’ about the transformative potential of 5G mobile technology.
‘[It] will bring multi-gigabit speeds to everyone, everywhere,’ he said. ‘5G enables download speeds up to 10 times faster than today’s speeds, together with the ability to connect many more devices.’
Mr Ahlawat added: ‘Working in partnership with Airtel, Vodafone and Nokia allows us to bring market-leading experience to the Channel Islands and we look forward to working with all stakeholders at the forthcoming 5G summit in Guernsey to create a world class 5G infrastructure.’
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