The spectrum auctions are the start of LTE becoming a reality. LTE delivers enhanced capacity and data throughput, thus enabling new services requiring higher levels of capability and performance.In India, 3G services are still expanding but the LTE is expected to see a rapid growth.
4G rollout in India - What to expect?
The 3GPP recomended LTE system essentially has FDD and TDD modes.After the introduction of 3G services, Indian consumers have been really demanding, especially for faster mobile internet speeds and improved connectivity. For India, operators are contemplating TD-LTE variant of the LTE standard. Frequency band also plays a crucial role. Multiple frequency/technology options are in the offing.
1. TDD-LTE on 2300 MHz spectrum (auctioned in 2010)
2. FDD-LTE on on 1800 MHz spectrum (auctioned recently)
3. FDD-LTE on 850 MHz spectrum
The operators are split among these bands.Therefore, most likely, India will see multi-band LTE roll-outs. Now, this requirement is going to be a headache for the handset vendors as it pushes the handset prices through the roof. For example, we know that the new iPhones (launched outside india) does not support the TDD version of LTE technology, but more globally trusted variant, FDD. As a result, the iPhones bought outside india may not support the LTE version in India.
So make sure the handset supports "Indian 4G-LTE" if you plan to migrate to 4G.
