Ooredoo will commercially launch 4G services on data and MiFi within two weeks in Qatar, Group chairman HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohamed bin Saud al-Thani has said.

Speaking to Gulf Times last night, Sheikh Abdullah said voice service on the ultra-fast 4G network would be provided after Ramadan this year.

Ooredoo is ready with the Long-Term Evolution (LTE) programme that will deliver the fourth generation (4G) network in the country.

LTE is a wireless broadband technology that supports roaming Internet access via mobile phones and devices and which seamlessly interworks with 2G and 3G networks.

Because of the significant improvements in download speeds and quality, it is called the “fourth generation” (4G) technology.

In Qatar, the service is expected to provide customers with “universal connectivity at incredible downlink speeds” of up to 150 Mbps for a broad range of services, including high-definition (HD) video on demand, interactive gaming, cable TV and high-bandwidth content.

Earlier, Ooredoo said it had “gained tremendous positive feedback” from customers who had used its network and devices during the testing period.

The 4G LTE network provides speeds that are three-to-six times as fast as the current 3G network, enabling customers to instantaneously access high-bandwidth content. Customers are able to watch high-definition video, transfer large files, view multimedia-rich websites and use interactive mobile apps.

Ooredoo had also said its QR200mn LTE project would deliver mobile speeds of up to 150 Mbps and support a knowledge-based economy.

MiFi or “My WiFi” is used as a name for wireless routers that act as mobile Wi-Fi hotspots.  MiFi device can be connected to a mobile phone carrier and typically provide Internet access for up to five devices.

Addressing Ooredoo shareholders at their ordinary and extraordinary general assembly meeting at the Four Seasons last night, Sheikh Abdullah said: “We are very excited about the commercial launch of the 4G mobile broadband network in Oman (through JV Nawras) and commercially launching in Qatar shortly”. Page 40

 

Decision on Maroc Telecom stake soon

Ooredoo expects a decision on its move to pick a stake in Maroc Telecom (Morocco) by next month. “We are pursuing Morocco…we started the exercise. If Qatar Investment Authority is interested in joining us, they are most welcome,” said Group chairman HE Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohamed bin Saud al-Thani. Asked whether Ooredoo was talking to banks about a syndicated loan to back a bid for a Maroc Telecom stake, Sheikh Abdullah said: “No…we are financially secure…we know what to do. We are playing it right”.

 

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