Chilean Telecom Regulator, SUBTEL, Announces 2G Networks Phase Out Plan

Reported by Srikapardhi August 1st, 2023 at 08:08 am

SUBTEL will oversee the transition from 2G to modern networks to ensure users' connectivity is not disrupted. Companies intending to replace their 2G networks will be required to submit plans outlining the process and user mitigations.

Highlights

The 2G network played a crucial role in the transition from analog to digital mobile communication, but it has become outdated and energy-consuming.
Chilean companies have expressed their intention to replace 2G networks with more modern options, such as 5G.
SUBTEL ensures that users in all regions of the country maintain connectivity during the 2G network replacement process.

Chilean regulator Subsecretaria de Telecomunicaciones (Subtel) has officially announced a plan to phase out 2G in the country. The telecommunications regulatory body has stated that it will oversee companies to ensure that customers do not lose connectivity during the network transition.

Also Read: Brazil and Chile Eliminate International Roaming Charges With Free Trade Agreement

Evolution of Mobile Networks in Chile

Subtel stated that with the emergence of newer and more advanced networks, such as 5G, 2G has now taken a backseat in the telecommunications market.

The Decline of 2G Technology

According to Subtel's statistics, 2G was the dominant technology in the Chilean mobile market until mid-2012. However, 2G has been surpassed by 3G and subsequently by 4G. Currently, just over 203,000 devices are connected to the 2G network in Chile.

In addition to being less widely used, 2G networks have become inefficient due to higher energy consumption compared to 4G or 5G, Subtel said. As a result, companies worldwide have been phasing out their 2G networks, including prominent players in Chile, like Entel, which announced its intention to discontinue the use of 2G a few weeks ago as reported by TelecomTalk.

Also Read: Entel Chile to Phase Out 2G for 4G, 5G Expansion From H2 2024

Subtel's Role in Ensuring User Connectivity

While recognizing the significance of technological advancements and their benefits to the lives of users and communication experiences, Subtel wants to ensure that the transition does not leave any user without service.

To guarantee a seamless process, Subtel stated that it would request companies intending to abandon their 2G networks to present detailed plans outlining how the transition will take place.

Moreover, Subtel said companies must provide information on the measures they will implement to mitigate any adverse effects on users, including contract modifications and device replacements, such as GPS and phones.

Subtel will Oversee the 2G Shutdown process

The Subsecretary of Telecomunicaciones affirmed that Subtel, through its oversight processes, will verify that the shutdown of 2G networks does not leave any locality in the country or its users without connectivity.

The authority added that "Different technologies comply with cycles and are being renewed by others. Today, while 5G networks are being deployed in the country, technologies such as 2G are in retreat. In addition, these are inefficient technologies with energy consumption, and their withdrawal will allow companies to upgrade to the networks of different parts of our country."

Also Read: Entel Chile Launches 5G Network in Rapa Nui, a Major Milestone in Island’s Connectivity

The deployment of 5G networks signifies a new era in telecommunications, promising enhanced services, faster data speeds, and expanded coverage for Chileans nationwide.

Reported By

Srikapardhi Telecom Analyst

Passionately following the Indian #Telecom Industry for over a decade from Business, Consumer and a Technical perspective. My primary focus area is Consumer & Digital Experience.