Israeli operator Pelephone has launched its 4G network after receiving approval for limited operation from the Ministry of Communications, reported Telecompaper.com on Aug 5, 2014. Pelephone operates its network on two frequencies that it received on loan from the ministry, unlike Partner Communications and Cellcom, which operate their 4G networks on frequencies they own. The frequencies that were temporarily granted to Pelephone are contingent upon the results of the LTE frequency tender, which will be held by the end of the year, Globes reported.

The company stated that, like its competitors, joining the service will be free of charge and gradual, so that hundreds of thousands of owners of devices that support the technology and who use the Pelephone network will be able to use advanced data services in accordance with the coverage zones.

Owners of 4G-compatible devices can join Pelephone\'s high-speed 4G at no additional charge via the company\'s website. Deployment of the network is underway, and the service will operate first in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Beersheva, Herzliya, Rishon Lezion, Netanya, Kfar Sava and Ramle. It will soon be available in Haifa, Petah Tikva and other areas.