Trzy Ireland, in collaboration with Ericsson, has become the latest mobile network operator (MNO) to introduce standalone (SA) 5G services. The technology will initially be available as a trial for selected corporate customers. Trzy Ireland claims to have achieved the first-mover advantage in Ireland in terms of implementing 5G SA, despite competition from former state operator Eir and Vodafone Ireland.
Meanwhile, Vodafone Ireland has been providing 5G SA services to business customers as part of mobile private networks (MPNs) since 2021, in partnership with Ericsson. Recently, the company joined forces with Ericsson to install 5G SA MPN for the Irish rugby team in preparation for the Rugby World Cup in 2023.
Although Trzy Ireland emphasizes being the first company to offer 5G SA capabilities in the public network in Ireland, the global availability of 5G SA networks is still relatively limited. The Ericsson Mobility report states that there have been approximately 40 5G SA deployments in public networks so far.
However, a growing number of MNOs are planning to introduce or already offering 5G SA services. Deutsche Telekom has confirmed its plans to implement the technology by 2024, following in the footsteps of Telefónica Deutschland (O2 Germany) and Vodafone Germany, which have already introduced 5G SA for both business and consumers.
Vodafone UK was the first of the four major MNOs in the United Kingdom to deliver 5G SA service. The company worked closely with Ericsson in building the core of the 5G SA network.
Although the deployment of 5G SA networks is slower compared to non-standalone (NSA) 5G networks, experts predict a higher number of deployments in 2024 than in 2023. Ericsson is the leading provider for 5G SA networks, supplying the packet core for all seven 5G SA networks launched in 2023.
As the technology matures and more compatible devices become available, it is expected that MNOs will increasingly adopt 5G SA, offering their customers better connectivity and reliability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
1. What does SA mean in the context of 5G?
5G standalone (SA) means that the 5G network solely uses its own resources and infrastructure, without the need for any resources from other technologies.
2. What are the benefits of deploying 5G SA?
Deploying 5G SA enables improved connectivity and reliability, resulting in better service quality for customers.
Definitions:
– MNO: Mobile Network Operator is a company that provides telecommunication services in the field of mobile networks.
– 5G SA: 5G standalone is a 5G network technology that does not require the use of any resources from other technologies, such as 4G.
– Ericsson: A telecommunications technology company and equipment provider for mobile networks.
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