Qualcomm, ZTE Unveil The World’s First 5G NR-DC

Qualcomm, AIS, and ZTE have unveiled the world’s first 5G NR-DC showcase for 2.6 GHz and 26 GHz in Thailand. The exhibition comprised the two major 5G spectrum bands, Sub-6, and 5G mmWave aka high-band.

Qualcomm reports that the showcase achieved 8.5Gbps peak downlink speed and 2.17 Gbps peak uplink speed. A single mobile device was used for the test.

The joint effort will serve as a pivot to enhance 5G capabilities in Thailand and widen the network’s application range.

The showcase took place at the AIS commercial 5G site in Korat, Thailand. The researchers used a smartphone form-factor test device that ran on Snapdragon® X65 5G Modem-RF System. The device also had the ZTE latest mmWave AAU network hardware.

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5G NR-DC in 2.6 GHz and 26 GHz band

In the test, the NR-DC was employed with one 100 MHz carrier in 2.6 GH, and four 200 MHz carriers in 26 GHz. It drew an 8.5 Gbps downlink and 2.17 Gbps uplink speed. An upbeat Qualcomm calls it “extraordinary capability and flexibility of NR-DC for diversified requirements from individual consumers and industry leaders.”

The unique dual radio test helps extend the application potentials of 5G mmWave in Thailand. All the partners in the test including AIS, and ZTE are committed to 5G’s capability enhancement, efficiency improvement, and stretching its application boundary.

… unlocking the full potential of 5G

“Our collaboration with AIS and ZTE proves the feasibility of deploying 5G mmWave in Thailand,” said ST Liew, Vice President, QUALCOMM CDMA Technologies Asia-Pacific Pte. Ltd. and President, Qualcomm South East Asia, and Australia.

“Qualcomm Technologies believes that 5G mmWave will be the key to unlocking the full potential of 5G. The possibility is endless and we are proud to take the first step in bringing the full benefits of 5G mmWave to the country,” he added.   

“We’re pleased to work with AIS and Qualcomm Technologies to achieve this milestone, which lays a technology validation foundation for 5G mmWave commercialization,” said Mei Zhong Hua, Senior Vice President, ZTE Corporation. With broader 5G opportunities enabled by mmWave, we will join hands with partners to continuously drive mmWave development, create ultimate experiences, and usher in a wonderful 5G era,” he elaborated.

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AIS to expand the use of 5G mmWave

“AIS’s key goal is to develop the smart 5G network as a national infrastructure with investments of 30,000-35,000 MB,” commented Wasit Wattanasap, Head of Nationwide Operation and Support Business Unit, Advanced Info Service Pcl. (AIS). With a license for all 5G bands, he said the company has high-speed data and low latency at its disposal. He also added that the company will continue its innovation in NSA/SA VoNR and 5G CA in Thailand.

The cooperation highlights the capability of AIS using its licensed spectrum of every waveband. It will further help to support business growth in various dimensions. The company calls it “a continuous transformation and update for Thai consumers”.

Wasit also said the company is ready with its 5G developments and will expand business growth in Thailand.

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With Qualcomm announcing 5G NR-DC with AIS, and ZTE, the fifth-generation network has seen more innovations.

What do you think of growing 5G innovations in the world? Are we in need of 5G or it is inevitable? Do share your thoughts in the comments below.