Doha
Ooredoo, Nokia Networks and NETGEAR have collaborated on a first-of-its-kind speed test using LTE-Advanced Cat.11 on the Ooredoo ‘Supernet’, achieving a peak data rate of 590 Mbps – the first time this speed has been reached in tests in Qatar and the entire GCC region.
The speed was achieved by aggregating 60MHz of spectrum across three bands and applying 256QAM higher order modulation to deliver another evolution in speed and performance for Qatar’s mobile Internet.
As well demonstrating the strength and capacity of the Ooredoo Supernet, supported by Nokia Networks’ technology, it also provided an ideal test for the next generation of NETGEAR Wi-Fi hotspots. Ooredoo recently signed an agreement with NETGEAR to launch a new range of 4G and 4G+ LTE smart devices in Qatar.
Ooredoo Qatar Chief Operating Officer Waleed Mohamed al-Sayed said, “The Ooredoo Supernet is setting new records across the region through its speed, quality and coverage. By reaching this peak data rate of close to 600 Mbps in test conditions, we are setting new benchmarks for what can be achieved. The next generation of mobile networks will provide the foundations for the smart city environments of the future and ensure we are fully-ready for 5G, which is why we are working with our partners to push the top speed and capacity limits.”
While the 600 Mbps speeds are currently not accessible on commercially-available devices in Qatar and outside of speed test conditions, Ooredoo is continuing to deliver performance upgrades and network enhancements to keep the Ooredoo Supernet at the cutting-edge.
Bernard Najm, vice president and head (Middle East and Africa) Nokia Networks, said: “With our sharp focus on innovation in our technologies, we are committed to supporting Ooredoo in setting new benchmarks and providing higher speed networks to cater to the ever increasing demands of its customers. Nokia Networks continues to deliver LTE-Advanced data rates in all three technology dimensions – spectrum, cells and efficiency – and we’re proud to build on our relationship with Ooredoo to bring these new breakthroughs to Qatar.”
The peak data speed was achieved on the ‘NETGEAR Aircard AC810S’ mobile hotspot, which supports the latest state-of-the-art mobile standards including three band carrier aggregation that in Category 11 mode enables speeds of up to 600Mbps. Although not yet available in Qatar, plans are in place for Ooredoo to launch the device in 2016.
Jim Kirkpatrick, senior vice president, NETGEAR LTE Products, said: “The new generation of mobile hotspots from NETGEAR deliver incredible power and performance, and we’re delighted to be working with Ooredoo to introduce this technology in Qatar. With 4G+ networks, customers can enjoy incredible online experiences, supported by faster speeds and remarkable coverage.”
Coinciding with the speed test success, Ooredoo has launched the 4G+ approved NETGEAR AirCard 790S Mobile Hotspot, a category 6 LTE mobile hotspot leveraging 802.11ac Wi-Fi and carrier aggregation technology to deliver astonishing download speeds of up to 300Mbps.
Recently, Ooredoo completed a range of enhancements on the Ooredoo Supernet. The company now has more than 1,030 LTE sites in Qatar and continues to add more every month.
In addition, it has successfully completed the upgrade of 544 outdoor sites to 4G+, and upgraded 182 indoor sites to 4G and four sites to 4G+, including some prime locations in leading malls, business centres, residential towers and hotels.
Ooredoo’s ongoing network enhancement programme is designed to provide the best possible Internet experience for customers, with high-speeds and superior performance on all 3G, 4G and 4G+ devices. The Ooredoo Supernet has been designed to continuously evolve to deliver a world-class quality of service.
