M1 granted final 5G network license from IMDA

SINGAPORE, 24 SEPTEMBER 2020 

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) today granted M1 Limited (M1) and StarHub Ltd (StarHub) the final 5G network license award, following the completion of the required regulatory processes.

With the final award of the 5G network licence, M1 will start to roll out its 5G network coverage across Singapore. With high network speeds, ultra-low latency, enhanced network resiliency and security, as well as complex end-to-end slicing, 5G is a new frontier in communications technology that will drive forward Singapore’s digital economy.

The regulatory processes involved spectrum seating and the completion of technical and legal due diligence. Through a joint decision with StarHub, we have selected Nokia to build the Radio Access Network (RAN) for the 5G standalone (SA) network infrastructure, leveraging the 3.5GHz radio frequency.

M1 has also selected Nokia to be the vendor to build the network core of the 5G infrastructure. As for the deployment of localised networks operating in the mmWave spectrum, M1 will be looking to work with multiple network vendors which will include Ericsson, Nokia and Huawei, based on specific use case requirements.

5G’s hyper connectivity and ability to carry massive connections simultaneously will not only enable better connectivity experiences for consumers, but will also spur further innovative journeys for the government and enterprises. The faster network will unleash the power of interactive and immersive experiences, and bring about revolutionary advancements for industries such as media, tourism, and e-sports. For leading smart cities like Singapore, 5G is a crucial milestone to enable interconnected infrastructure that enhances the convenience, liveability and efficiency of our space. 5G will also be able to bring about a digital future with game-changing and endless new possibilities.

Even before the awarding of the license, M1 has been a front-runner in developing and testing the use of 5G through strategic partnerships and collaborations with various government agencies and leading players in the consumer and enterprise segments. Notable examples include leveraging a standalone 5G network to livestream drone footage of the longest dragon dance at this year’s Chingay parade and enriching the Haidilao customer experience through soup preparation and service provided by robots at Haidilao’s new smart restaurant. Most recently, M1 also established a collaboration with SGInnovate to unleash the power of 5G for deep-tech start-ups, encouraging further breakthroughs and innovation in the possible uses of 5G.

On the enterprise front, M1 recently partnered with IMDA, Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) and Airbus to conduct network coastal trials of unmanned aerial vehicles at the Singapore Maritime Drone Estate, setting the base to make Urban Air Mobility a reality for Singapore. M1 has also embarked on Singapore’s first 5G Industry 4.0 trial with IBM, IMDA and Samsung for development, testing and roll-out innovative solutions for the enhancement of smart manufacturing processes.

Additionally, M1 has worked closely with key educational institutes such as Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) and Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) to develop and test various innovative applications of 5G, ranging from the first 5G cellular vehicle-to-everything (C-V2X) communication to the remote operations of robots.

Mr Manjot Singh Mann, Chief Executive Officer, M1, said: “The development of Singapore’s 5G network is an exciting mission that inspires and motivates all of us at M1. We are thankful for the trust that IMDA has placed in M1 and will continue to work closely together with IMDA and StarHub to deliver a successful 5G story for Singapore. We are already witnessing 5G’s transformational role in various sectors, such as the manufacturing, maritime and F&B industries. Coupled with further cutting-edge technology, 5G will be the backbone and drive the next bound of Singapore’s digital economy, reinforcing its position as the region’s technology and connectivity hub.”

“The 5G rollout will also enable the delivery of new, innovative products and services to consumers, enterprise and government, which will boost the economy and lead to creation of job opportunities. Future investments will be focused to keep M1 at the forefront in Singapore’s 5G ecosystem.” added Mann.

The above development is not expected to have any material impact on the earnings per share and net tangible asset per share of Keppel Corporation for the financial year ending 31 December 2020.

About M1

M1, a subsidiary of Keppel Corporation, is Singapore’s most vibrant and dynamic communications company, providing mobile and fixed services to over two million customers. Since the launch of commercial services in 1997, M1 has achieved many firsts, including the first operator to offer nationwide 4G service, as well as ultra-high-speed fixed broadband, fixed voice and other services on the Next Generation Nationwide Broadband Network (NGNBN). With a continual focus on network quality, customer service, value and innovation, M1 links anyone and anything; anytime, anywhere. For more information, visit www.m1.com.sg

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