Bharti Airtel has started moving from 5G to 5G-Advanced, deploying a dual-mode network that integrates both non-standalone (NSA) and standalone (SA) architectures to deliver faster speeds, lower latency, and greater reliability nationwide. The new setup combines the coverage benefits of the NSA layer, which leverages 4G infrastructure, with the fully cloud-native SA core designed for next-generation applications. This hybrid approach serves as a bridge between existing 5G networks and future 5G-Advanced systems.
The service is already available for fixed wireless access (FWA) users across 13 telecom circles, providing broadband-grade connectivity over the air for homes and small businesses. Airtel has also begun mobile network pilots in select cities and will expand nationwide once performance benchmarks are met.
For users, the shift promises smoother and faster experiences such as more consistent data speeds through seamless NSA-SA switching, lower lag for calls and gaming due to reduced latency, and improved reliability via AI-based traffic management and enhanced handovers.
