In the framework of the discussion on 5G fixed wireless access, the panelists explained what they have been working on in terms of 5G FWA technology.
“From the start were we were committed to providing our customers with the most innovative solutions. Specifically with 5G, we focused on building the infrastructure to have a reliable network which we can build on to have more use cases. 5G FWA has allowed us to offer more services and have the capability to support different use cases such as AI, IOT, and automation”, said Abdulrahman bin Hamad AlMufadda, CTO, Zain KSA.
One of Nokia’s unique solutions is its FastMile fixed wireless access gateway that creates a better and faster Wi-Fi experience within consumers’ home. When asked about what makes this solution so unique, Ali Jitawi said, “FastMile 5G FWA gateway’s main differentiating feature is the ease of installation – customers are guided by a mobile app through the entire installation process. The look and shape of the CPE are also one of its unique features. In addition, it has been designed to guarantee the best reach and coverage and outperform the other products. In addition, its open-standards capabilities are the first in the world to enable eSIMs and WiFi 6.”
He added, “For operators and CSPs, Nokia’s 5G FWA solution allows them to reduce OPEX and increase revenues while offering the best customer experience.”
Deploying fixed wireless access comes with its own challenges, mainly related to capacity and coverage. But the KSA has been able to ease some of the restraints.
“The amount of spectrum allocated in KSA in the mid-band is very unique and allowed operators to match their mobile footprint and unleashed the capability to have FWA in cities and sub-urban areas, coupled with 5G beamforming and MIMO capabilities,” Jitawi said.
He finally concluded that with all of those capabilities, operators and CSPs will be able to uplift their ARPU and enrich their portfolio with new services which would allow them to better monetize their 5G investment.