Brazilian regional operator Algar Telecom has revealed that it plans to increase its 2.3GHz 5G network coverage to 32 cities by year-end. 

While the telco’s operating region comprises a total of 87 cities, the 32 target locations are said to be home to around 50% of the population within that footprint. Algar’s 26GHz spectrum holdings – as yet unused – are expected to be used to support fixed wireless access (FWA) for B2B users. Marcio de Jesus, VP of Algar’s B2C unit, told TeleTime: ‘We see 5G as a way to reduce the cost of investments, have more quality of service and make customers increase their average spending, but without differentiating products.’

TeleGeography notes that Algar secured 5G-suitable frequencies in the 2300MHz, 3.5GHz and 26GHz bands in Brazil’s multi-band spectrum auction in November 2021.

The telco went on to launch Non Standalone (NSA) 5G services using the 2.3GHz band on 15 December 2021. From launch, the network has covered selected parts of Uberlandia and Uberaba, as well as Franca in Sao Paulo.