Airtel users in Haryana, it’s time to upgrade your 3G-supported devices, as the telecom operator, on Friday has decided to shut down its 3G services in the region. This has been done, to re-farm the network, and strengthen its 4G network in the state, allowing them to offer better services.
Haryana is the second telecom circle after Kolkata to see the discontinuation of 3G services by Airtel in 2019 and more circles are likely to be added by end of this year.
By switching to the 4G network, Airtel claims that its customers will be able to access 4G data speeds, clubbed with HD quality VoLTE calling as well.
Airtel, through a company statement, mentioned that all customers on its 3G network were duly notified and requested to upgrade their handsets/SIMs to make use of its 4G services.
Having said that, Airtel is making sure that its existing base of 2G users continue to be served, as the market for feature phones in India is unlikely to cease anytime soon.
The re-farming of 3G spectrum to 4G, according to Airtel will boost its network capacity and widen the availability of its services, most likely enhancing data speeds for mobile users.
The reliance on these legacy networks has ensured the likes of Airtel and Vodafone Idea Limited have to strategise for maintenance of 2G and 4G network . While newbie telcos like Reliance Jio have to only focus on the future with VoLTE and even 5G connectivity for that matter.
Reports suggest that over 400 million users in the country are still using 2G-enabled devices, which emphasises the need for Airtel and VIL to give up on 3G, so that money can be invested in keeping 2G and 4G networks effective.
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