The commercial launch of 5G network in India has the potential to increase the median download speeds by up to 10 times, as compared to 4G long-term evolution (LTE), according to findings from internet testing firm Ookla.
Ookla said that its findings are based on data from other Asian markets that have recently launched 5G (both Thailand and the Philippines launched 5G in Q1 2020 and Q2 2020, respectively), showing a potential difference between 4G LTE and 5G speeds of an average of 9-10 times in Q2 2021.
According to Ookla, Reliance Jio’s performance has already improved since March 2021 as a result of its additional spectrum holding. Its median download speed increased from 5.96 Mbps in March 2021 to 13.08 Mbps in June 2021. Further, the upload speed has also increased.
Ookla also stated that the delay in 5G rollout in India would eventually benefit operators as they can procure network equipment at a lower cost. Moreover, the adoption of open RAN system by Indian operators will further aid in bringing down the overall cost of 5G rollout, Ookla stated.
Meanwhile, Ookla also stated that the prices of 5G smartphones are decreasing in India owing to several partnerships, including Jio Platforms’ partnership with Google and that this trend will continue in the future.
