Zong, Pakistan’s leading data network, together with ZTE Corporation, has announced the first commercial deployment of a 3G and 4G dual-mode high-power FDD Massive MIMO solution in Pakistan. The development marks the introduction of the industry’s first 480W high-power FDD Massive MIMO solution globally, designed to enhance network efficiency and user experience while supporting the country’s mobile broadband growth. The solution operates on the 1800 MHz and 2100 MHz spectrum bands, enabling improved performance for current 4G networks and allowing readiness for future network evolution. Additionally, it supports 3G services in the 2100 MHz band, aligning with the operational requirements of Zong’s network.
Field testing of this advanced solution in collaboration with Zong demonstrated significant performance improvements. Results indicated more than 140% increase in network capacity and a 270% improvement in user experience. By leveraging this technology, operators gain the ability to redeploy existing Remote Radio Units (RRUs) and antennas to other sites, thereby optimizing resource utilization, maximizing return on investment, and accelerating the pace of network modernization. This approach allows networks to serve more users while maintaining consistent performance, particularly in high-demand urban centers.
Zong and ZTE have also outlined plans to expand their collaboration by preparing for a large-scale rollout of this enhanced solution. As part of the next stage, the companies are exploring the integration of AI-driven intelligent computing cards within the Baseband Unit (BBU). This integration is expected to further increase cell capacity, automate optimization processes, and deliver more stable and efficient mobile broadband services to end users. The adoption of AI within the core of network management highlights how both organizations are combining advanced hardware solutions with intelligent software enhancements to support growing data demands in Pakistan.
This partnership reflects the shared objective of Zong and ZTE to drive innovation in Pakistan’s telecom sector by introducing technologies that align with global advancements while addressing the local market’s connectivity needs. The deployment of 3G and 4G dual-mode high-power FDD Massive MIMO not only supports existing users but also ensures that infrastructure is in place for the next wave of mobile technology. As both companies prepare for large-scale adoption of these solutions, Pakistan’s mobile broadband ecosystem is positioned to benefit from higher capacity, improved quality of service, and efficient resource allocation across networks.
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