Singtel's early 2020 campaign where it was showcasing 5G connectivity underground. Image: Singtel.
Singtel announced today (6 September 2024) that it is the first and only Singapore telco to provide full 5G coverage throughout our islandwide Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) train network.
All 27 stations of TEL
This boast came after Singtel deployed 5G network coverage within the six underground MRT lines, including the 27 stations dotted across the relatively new Thomson-East Coast Line (TEL, also affectionately known as the Brown Line).
In its official statement, Singtel said that deploying 5G to MRT lines was a challenge due to several constraints. All work had to be done during the non-operational hours of these stations to avoid service disruptions, and there were space limitations, which meant specialised tools were required.
Additionally, Singtel reconfigured existing 3G and 4G hardware in MRT tunnels to better serve 5G networks and users. The telco has since completed this across all MRT lines.
This brings Singtel's total 5G coverage to 1,700 outdoor and 1,000 indoor locations, which also include shopping malls and transport hubs that link to these train stations.
Singapore’s 5G story, through the eyes of Singtel
The telco has been deploying a 5G network for consumers across Singapore since 2020. VivoCity was the network’s first 5G-supported mall, and the telco achieved two-thirds of nationwide coverage in 2021.
In 2022, Singtel reached 95% network coverage, ahead of the IMDA regulatory requirements of 5G coverage by the end of 2025. In the same year, they also managed to cover the entire underground North East Line (NEL) with 5G access.
The telco then provided 5G access beyond its postpaid customers by bringing 5G to its MVNO arm, GOMO, which resulted in a significant shift in 5G affordability.
The rise of 5G connectivity also meant retiring older network technologies to make room for equipment and bandwidth, to which Singtel announced it would retire 3G network coverage progressively, starting in November 2024.
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