Banglalink first to launch next generation 4G with new spectrum

Banglalink becomes the first operator in the country to launch next generation 4G with new spectrum from the 2.3 GHz band. It has officially started the deployment of the new spectrum from Khulna today. The spectrum was acquired from BTRC’s last spectrum auction held in March this year. Erik Aas, Chief Executive Officer, Banglalink, made the announcement at a press conference organized in Khulna today. Shyam Sunder Sikder, Chairman, Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC), attended the press conference as the Chief Guest. Also present at the event were Engr. Md. Mohiuddin Ahmed, Commissioner, Engineering and Operations Division, BTRC, Taimur Rahman, Chief Corporate & Regulatory Affairs Officer, Banglalink, Huseyin Turker, Chief Technology and Information Officer, Banglalink, F M Shahriar Omar Prince, Cluster Director, Banglalink, and other top officials of the company.

The newly deployed spectrum will result in faster internet and superior digital experiences for Banglalink customers. Time Division Duplex (TDD) technology was used to enable the new spectrum. Banglalink has also expanded its network across the country, building over 3,000 base transceiver stations (BTS) in the last eight months as part of its network expansion drive.

Banglalink’s spectrum holding grew by 100% earlier this year when it acquired 40 MHz spectrum from BTRC. With the acquisition of the new spectrum, Banglalink holds a total of 80 MHz spectrum and remains the top private operator in the country in terms of spectrum per customer.

Thanks to consistent technological advancement, Banglalink posted double-digit revenue growth in 2Q22. It has recently secured Ookla’s recognition as the fastest mobile network in the country for three consecutive years as well.

Shyam Sunder Sikder, Chairman, BTRC, said, “I am delighted to see how Banglalink is prioritizing different regions of the country as part of its nationwide expansion strategy. Such initiatives can play an important role in accelerating Bangladesh’s technological progress by fostering digital inclusion. I hope that Banglalink will remain focused on regions like Khulna in the future.”
Erik Aas, Chief Executive Officer, Banglalink said, “The launch of next generation 4G with the deployment of new spectrum in Khulna shows our firm commitment to this region, which has always been a special market to us. It also demonstrates our intent to transform into a truly national operator. We are happy to offer our customers faster internet and quality digital services through this initiative. Banglalink invites them to enjoy more fulfilling digital experiences, and to be a part of our growth journey.”
Following the press conference, BTRC Chairman launched a mobile experience zone, visited Banglalink’s customer service center, and experienced its fastest mobile internet and digital services such as Toffee, Health Hub, and AppLink.