M1 launches nationwide LTE-A network

Singapore mobile operator M1 has launched 4G+ Long Term Evolution-Advanced (LTE-A) technology island-wide, offering subscribers a peak 300Mbps download speed – double that available on 4G LTE platforms. Open to both existing customers and new users, M1 says its LTE-A service is available in more than 95% of indoor areas and most outdoors areas at launch. A spokesperson for the carrier confirmed that the company intends to ‘review and enhance’ its network, with a specific focus on high traffic demand areas such as Mass Rapid Transit stations and tunnels. However, rival StarHub was quick to point out that in order to benefit from the new service, users will require an LTE-A compatible handset – something that will not come on-stream until early in 2015. A spokesperson for StarHub said its own LTE-A upgrade will be available nationwide next year, while SingTel Mobile said it was on track to reach outdoor coverage of 85%-90% early next year.