Existing MTS subscribers using 5G-compatible smartphones will be able to connect at speeds up to 1.5 Gbps via a Huawei-equipped network, according to the company.
As part of an initially free-to-use capped trial, subscribers will be invited to connect to the network if they are near one of the 14 pilot locations and if levels of data traffic will support their participation.
According to the head of MTS’ St Petersburg division Palev Korotin, the company will “increase the number of 5G zones and coverage over time” including plans to extend the pilot network into the cities of St Petersburg and Yekaterinburg over the course of the year.
The initial 5G user pilot network will cover locations including University Square near the building of Moscow State University; Tverskoy Boulevard & Moscow Art Theater; Dream Island entertainment centre; and the Muzeon Park of Arts.
At the end of February, MTS partnered with Skoltech to expand 5G coverage in the Skolkovo high technology business area within the Mozhaysky District in Moscow. The companies deployed a pilot network for the International Medical Cluster (MMK) offering indoor 5G coverage for the implementation of telemedicine services.
