Smartfren Telecom has launched a 4G LTE-Advanced network in Indonesia, providing users in 22 major cities with access to the highest-performance mobile broadband services.
The new 4G LTE-Advanced, rolled out with the assistance of ZTE Corporation, was launched commercially by Smartfren in Jakarta on August 19 and supports both the FDD-LTE and TDD-LTE standards.
The nationwide launch follows successful trials and the June launch of Smartfren's Andromax range of LTE smartphone and portable Wi-Fi devices. "We believe that 4G LTE-Advanced technology will open many opportunities for our customers and further accelerate the Information and Communication Technology Industry as a backbone for Indonesian economic growth," said Smartfren chief executive officer (CEO) Paul Hodges.
"4G LTE-Advanced will enable our customers to enjoy improved multimedia streaming, online games, cloud storage and video conferencing. Smartfren is committed to bring the best of 4G LTE technology to Indonesia to deliver not only higher speeds but a more stable and reliable 4G LTE experience."
Chief technology officer (CTO) Christian Daigneault said the network was the widest LTE-Advanced service now available in Indonesia. "We leverage both TDD and FDD technologies to get best of both technologies: high capacity and throughput on TDD at 2300 MHz and large coverage with FDD at 850 Mhz," he said. "With this combination, we can offer the best broadband experience. We have chosen ZTE for this deployment due to our long time relationship and their leadership with TDD networks."
Shi Lirong, president of ZTE, said his company was glad to partner Smartfren to roll out the service. "We are fully committed to delivering a state-of-the-art LTE ecosystem, which will help Smartfren offer the best mobile broadband services to their customers," Lirong said.
"This alliance has allowed ZTE to further cement our position as the partner of choice for telecom operators in the country in developing and maintaining their LTE ecosystem. This partnership also fits into our long term vision of developing a sustainable LTE network in Indonesia."
