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Even in developed countries, 5G is unlikely to become mainstream telecoms technology in the near future.
Experts say Ukraine may see first commercial launches of 5G technology no earlier than 2020.
"I predict that the [relevant] standards will have been finalized by 2020, and some commercial launches will take place then. I believe that Ukraine should not move too fast. It makes sense to wait a year or two when the technology becomes more mature. There will be more scenarios for using this communications service. After that, Ukraine can introduce 5G," Business Development Director at Huawei Ukraine LLC Alexander Serbin told UNIAN in a comment.
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According to him, 5G will not become mainstream telecoms technology even in developed countries in the near future.
"I emphasize that 5G won't become the main technology in the near future. It will not replace LTE. Moreover, we can expect 4G to remain mainstream technology for ordinary users at least until 2025," the expert said.
"5G in Ukraine in 2019 can exist only as a test site. Rumor has it that Kyivstar is already trying to do something in this field. But I don't believe that 5G will be launched in Ukraine in the next five years. We have voice communications and 3G not everywhere. Therefore, Ukraine will definitely not be in the lead in introducing 5G," media expert, member of the Ukrainian Internet Association Board, adviser to the head of Ukraine's National Television and Radio Broadcasting Council Oleksandr Gluschenko told UNIAN on January 3.
As UNIAN reported earlier, in late January 2018, Ukraine's National Commission for Communications and Informatization Regulation (NCCIR) sold 4G licenses in the 2600 MHz band to Ukraine's largest mobile communications operators – Kyivstar, Vodafone and lifecell – for UAH 2.456 billion (US$88.7 million).
On March 6, the NCCIR sold frequencies for 4G in the 1800 MHz band to Kyivstar, Vodafone and lifecell for UAH 5.424 billion ($196 million).
In April 2018, the mobile operators launched 4G mobile communications services in the 2600 MHz band, and in July 2018 in the 1800 MHz band.