4G technology roll-out could spike GoI's 3G spectrum auction plans

Bangalore: Even as the Government of India is going about trying to vacate 3G spectrum for auction to private players, international telecommunications giant, Motorola, which has tested next generation wireless network, Long Term Evolution (LTE), appears all set to commence trial services of a 4G network by the end of the year. The move is likely to force the government to take another look at its plans to auction 3G spectrum in the country.

Concept iPhone 4G phone

LTE is the most sought after next-generation (4G) wireless network standard in the market. 4G wireless networks are expected to support data-transmission speeds as high as, and in excess of, 100Mbps. With such features, it may be possible for an employee using a cell phone to participate in a video conference with his office, or clients, or tune into high-quality streaming video.

If Motorola successfully tests 4G, then operators planning to launch 3G telephony would likely wait and watch. Motorola is likely to approach the Department of Telecom (DoT) for trial spectrum, according to senior company officials.

Reports suggest that Motorola aside other industry players too are readying for their own trials. Motorola is willing to test in conjunction with other players although it is equipped to test on its own systems.

DoT officials have refused comment on likely 4G deployment in the country, though a note on 4G would appear to have been prepared by the department for internal circulation.