A new Singtel 5G+ mobile service out now is set to deliver faster speeds and better coverage to users who demand more from their Internet on the go.
Launched today, the new offering by Singapore’s largest telecom operator promises to be an enhanced version of 5G that puts it one up over rivals in the country’s ultra-competitive mobile market.
One key improvement – available to Singtel’s 1.5 million 5G customers – comes from the use of the 700MHz radio frequency spectrum, which Singtel started deploying in February this year after being granted the right to use the airwaves.
It is the first to deploy standalone 5G services in this spectrum, which Singtel says will provide 40 per cent better coverage in high-rise buildings, indoor and underground spaces, as well as in remote areas.
By leveraging the broader bandwidth, Singtel aims to accommodate a larger user base even in congested areas, resulting in faster and more reliable connectivity without increasing costs for existing subscribers.
If this is a worthy attempt to differentiate itself from lower-cost players, Singtel is going even further with a 5G+ Priority plan.
This service employs a technique known as network slicing. Previously used by businesses to prioritise what are deemed to be important apps, the same technology is now used by Singtel to let its premium customers enjoy faster speeds and lower latency.
They can expect speeds up to four times faster and superior performance even in densely populated areas, such as sports arenas, concert venues, or during major events like the Singapore Grand Prix and National Day Parade.
Who gets on the priority lane? Existing Singtel customers on SIM-only Plus and Ultra, L plans and above have been upgraded for free to Singtel 5G+ Priority, the telco says.
New subscribers seeking this enhanced experience can access the Sim-Only 5G+ Priority plan starting at S$55 per month, which includes 200GB of local data, 3GB of data for use across Asia, Caller ID, and 1,000 minutes of talktime and SMSes.
Alternatively, customers who do not require premium speeds can still enjoy the benefits of the 5G+ service at more accessible price points with the 5G+ Lite service starting from S$35 per month with a one-year contract.
At a media event today, Singtel chief executive officer Ng Tian Chong said the 5G upgrade aligned with Singapore’s broader push towards artificial intelligence (AI) and automation across various sectors.
“This evolution to unlock changes and advancement in 5G services is not just about data; while data is important, it is about the network performance,” he noted.
