BSNL shouldn't make the mistake of delaying the rollout of 5G for a few years. 4G networks of state telcos will arrive when all private telcos switch to 5G. BSNL should not repeat this error.
Synopsis
- Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) 4G networks will be available in various parts of the country later this year.
- When it comes to mobile services, BSNL has the fewest number of users compared to private telecom operators.
- If BSNL can't deliver high-quality network services, its 4G rollout wouldn't have much of an impact.
The PoC process is now complete and BSNL's indigenous 4G solution has been a success. But extensive testing of the networks remains, starting in August 2022 in Kerala and likely other states as well. BSNL plans to roll out 4G networks in several states by December 2022.
But the question is; will it be enough for the state telecom operator to change things?
BSNL has the lowest number of subscribers in the telecommunications market in India
When it comes to mobile services, BSNL has the fewest number of users compared to private telecom operators. The launch of 4G should help add new subscribers quickly, but it may not be enough for BSNL to continue adding new customers in the long term.
Although the rates may be cheaper, the quality of network service is something that users would look for. Things have changed and now the data experience has become a major factor for most people when choosing a network service provider.
If BSNL can't deliver high-quality network services, its 4G rollout wouldn't have much of an impact. Users can keep their BSNL SIM as a secondary option just to keep another SIM active in their device as private telecom operators continue to raise the rates.
Most people would rather pay more to a private telecom operator for better network services instead of looking for cheaper BSNL rates.
5G should be in the books soon
BSNL shouldn't make the mistake of delaying the rollout of 5G for a few years. 4G networks of state telcos will arrive when all private telcos switch to 5G. BSNL should not repeat this error.
With 5G, new revenue streams are possible. So, with an accelerated 4G rollout, BSNL is also expected to keep 5G on its books by 2023. According to some officials, BSNL is indeed considering rolling out 5G networks in 2023, but the fact is that all words are empty promises until until they are executed.
So in simple terms, while 4G will help BSNL grow the business, it won't be enough to change things in the medium and long term. The state-owned telecommunications company is also in dire need of going after the 5G rollout.
