Telcos set to meet rollout obligations for 26 GHz despite lack of device ecosystem

Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel plan to set up telecom networks utilising the 26 GHz spectrum band to meet the minimum roll out obligations, despite no device ecosystem, executives at the two telcos said.

The companies were earlier considering seeking an extension from the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) on the deadline to meet roll out obligations. But with the equipment makers assuring of supply of gear, the telcos have decided to set up the radios in all telecom circles to meet the basic roll out conditions.

A broader roll out will, however, not take place as currently there are no devices to support the band. As per information available with ET, both the telcos have communicated to DoT that they would not need an extension and will set up the network as per the conditions in the notice inviting application (NIA). The roll out obligations for the 26 GHz band are similar to the mid-band (3300-3600 MHz) for the first year.

This means that by the end of first year, a company has to commercially launch service anywhere in each of the three metros and at least in one city in each of India's 22 telecom circles.

Any non-compliance on roll out obligations attracts a financial penalty. If the delay of service launch is over 52 weeks, then the spectrum assigned can even be taken back.

Queries sent to Airtel, Jio, Vodafone Idea and Adani Data Networks elicited no response till press time.

The 26 GHz band was auctioned in last year's spectrum sale and all four bidders-—Reliance Jio, Bharti Airtel, Vodafone Idea and Adani Data Networks—bought them for their 5G requirements. The 26 GHz was the most sought-after spectrum after mid-band in the auctions of 2022, with 72% of the airwaves getting sold.