STAFF REPORT KHI: Almost four out of five operators have upgraded their networks to 3G technology in major cities of Pakistan for launching high speed data telephony services to their customers by next year.
“Mobilink, Telenor and Ufone have carried out advancement in their infrastructure during past one year in six to 10 cities whereas Zong is working aggressively to develop its network for 3G enabled services,” industry sources said.
According to them, these cellular operators have already invested heavily on physical infrastructure in the past and are likely to capitalise more money on the advanced network as part of their expansion plans.
The auction of 3G mobile spectrums has a potential of generating significant revenues for the government in the upcoming months, which can fetch minimum $785 million if the base prices are considered at $210 for three licences and $155 for one licence having separate terms and conditions.
The cellular companies that fail to get licence of 3G will lose their potential part of subscription, as their valued subscribers will likely migrate on the networks having 3G services. The factor will make a strong business case for operators with 3G services despite low but increasing demand of Internet on mobile at present.