5G Internet Set to Launch in Iran’s Major Cities by March, Announces Minister

In a significant development for digital connectivity, Iran is set to introduce 5G internet access to its major cities by the conclusion of the current Persian calendar year, which ends in late March. This announcement comes from the Iranian Minister of Information and Communications Technology, Sattar Hashemi, who detailed plans for the rollout during a recent press conference.

Hashemi stated, “We hope we can roll out the fifth generation of mobile (internet) in the country in the current year with a focus on metropolises,” highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing internet speeds and reliability. This initiative is poised to transform the digital landscape in Iran, making high-speed internet more accessible to urban populations.

The expansion of the 5G network will involve several key steps, including:

• Auctioning Radio Frequencies: The government plans to auction off the necessary radio frequencies in the coming days to facilitate the expansion of the 5G infrastructure.
• Collaboration with South Korea: An agreement has been reached with South Korean authorities to enable the 5G option on Samsung smartphones imported into Iran, ensuring that users have compatible devices to access the new network.
• Focus on Major Cities: The initial rollout will prioritize metropolises, allowing urban users to benefit from faster internet speeds and improved connectivity.

According to Hashemi, the anticipated 5G network will enable Iranian users to experience download speeds of up to 500 megabits per second (mbps). He emphasized the transformative impact this technology will have, stating, “… we will get to know the real meaning of online services, gaming, and movie streaming.”

Current data indicates that the average speed of mobile internet in Iran was 37.36 mbps as of May last year. This figure was derived from international speed monitoring websites, which also noted that Iran improved its global ranking for mobile internet speed, moving up three positions to 73rd place.

The push for 5G is part of a broader strategy by the Iranian government to enhance digital infrastructure and services across the nation. Figures from the Communications Regulatory Authority in Iran revealed that the number of 5G mast sites had increased significantly, reaching a total of 1,313 by late March 2024. This expansion is crucial for supporting the anticipated demand for high-speed internet services.

As Iran continues to invest in its telecommunications sector, experts believe that the introduction of 5G technology will not only improve internet access but also foster innovation in various sectors. Industries such as education, healthcare, and entertainment stand to gain substantially from the enhanced capabilities of 5G networks.

In conclusion, the rollout of 5G internet in Iran marks a pivotal moment in the country’s digital evolution. With initiatives focused on major urban centers, the Iranian government aims to ensure that its citizens can enjoy the benefits of high-speed connectivity. As the auctions for radio frequencies approach, many are eager to see how quickly and effectively this new technology will be implemented across the nation.

Overall, the development of 5G in Iran is a key step towards modernizing the country’s telecommunications infrastructure, paving the way for improved online experiences and a more connected society.