Bharti Airtel, the country’s largest telecom operator by subscribers, has launched fourth generation (4G) telecom services in three cities — Chandigarh, Mohali and Panchkula — in Punjab.
The New Delhi-based company will use 4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology, a standard for wireless communication of high-speed data for mobile phones and data terminals, to deliver the services.
The services would enable users to access high-speed data services, high definition videos, multiple chatting, instant uploading of photos and downloading rich content, among others.
“The much-awaited launch of Airtel 4G services fulfils a huge market requirement and will give customers in Chandigarh the power to upgrade to the latest 4G LTE technology. This launch enhances the footprint of mobile broadband in India,” said Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer and Director, Network Services Group at Bharti Airtel.
The company, which had earlier launched 4G services in Kolkata, Bangalore and Pune, is now readying to launch the services in the remaining licence areas.
In 2010, Airtel had successfully bid for Broadbrand and Wireless Access (BWA) spectrum in Kolkata, Karnataka, Punjab and Maharashtra (excluding Mumbai) circles.
Last year, Bharti Airtel acquired 49 per cent stake in Qualcomm AP’s India entities that had BWA licences in Delhi, Mumbai, Haryana and Kerala.