Latin America. The shutdown of mobile networks that provide 2G and 3G services generates an incentive for mobile operators to deploy 5G services in Latin America. This is explained by the new document "Best practices in disconnection of disused mobile networks for Latin America" published by 5G Americas, which analyzes the options of the industry in the region and shows examples from the international level.
"The coexistence of networks of different technologies, 2G, 3G, 4G and soon 5G, is inefficient in the day to day of operators. In this framework, an intelligent process that carries out the shutdown of networks that are becoming obsolete can mean benefits when developing 5G, but it also requires a series of challenges for operators," explained José Otero, Vice President for Latin America and the Caribbean of 5G Americas.
The study analyzes the condition of disused networks in Latin America and proposes a series of steps to be taken into account by operators at the time of their shutdown, such as reducing costs in network administration. Emphasis is placed on the development of a strategic plan, communication with customers and different plans to stimulate users to change technology. The relationship with the regulator, the planning of the shutdown and the strategies to avoid sanctions are also analyzed.
On the other hand, the report presents the examples carried out by AT&T in the United States and Telus in Canada. The strategies carried out by these operators and the processes by which both players turned off their disused networks are considered.
"Many operators in the region are in search of innovation and efficiency of their networks, so the shutdown plans of older technologies are presented as an alternative to carry out those plans. These strategies coincide with the need to increase digitalization in many of the countries of the region. Creating the conditions for these strategies to be carried out is one of the jobs to be carried out jointly between the authorities and the industry," Otero said.
