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Jersey's competition regulator has said it is laying the foundations for the new '5G' mobile networks in the island.
CICRA says it is working with local mobile operators pioneering 5G, key stakeholders, the States in both Bailiwicks and schools.
CICRA says it has also contacted Ofcom, the UK telecoms regulator, to make sure appropriate radio frequencies will be available locally, along with innovation licenses, which will allow operators to test new applications and services locally, ahead of a full roll out of the technology.
They will hold an industry forum in July to discuss all aspects of 5G, in particular how stakeholders will work together to ensure the Islands gain the most from this exciting technology, ahead of a 5G Summit in the autumn.
Pictured: Tim Ringsdore, CICRA Director.
Tim Ringsdore, CICRA Director, said: "The Channel Islands have always been at the forefront of innovation and we are determined to provide the support the industry needs to be successful, working closely with the operators to build a world class network and solutions that will help businesses and residents enjoy the very latest technological developments."
Cliff Mason, Spectrum Policy Manager Ofcom, said: "Ofcom supports the Channel Islands Competition and Regulatory Authorities by authorising spectrum licences across the Channel Islands. We will continue to work closely with the team to support local operators in making available the spectrum in bands likely to be suitable for 5G technology."
Pictured: Ian Kelly, CEO of Sure.
Ian Kelly, CEO of Sure, said his company is committed to developing 5G next generation mobile technology and working closely with the islands’ governments and CICRA. He added: “We expect 5G to completely transform mobile connectivity and act as an economic enabler. It will change how we think about networks and build the associated infrastructure and the way our society connects through the Internet of Things (IoT).
“5G will facilitate very exciting developments in our communities but as an emerging technology the exact details have yet to be finalised and the potential challenges of introducing it need to be discussed and resolved. The work has already started to ensure that the islands maximise this opportunity and we’re looking forward to working together to see how 5G can be tested and delivered locally for the benefit of the islands and islanders.”
Pictured: JT has already started work on its network to bring in 5G.
A JT spokesperson commented: “We will certainly be participating in the forthcoming events organised by CICRA. With the fastest fixed and mobile networks, we are always asking ‘what’s next’ and striving to go faster.
“JT is committed to the Channel Islands and we continue to invest heavily in its infrastructure. We are keen to continue our investment into 5G and, in fact, our existing full-fibre network will be fundamental to ensure that 5G fulfils its potential. Clearly aware that 5G is on its way, we have invested early and significantly to be ready. Across the islands we have already started to upgrade our Ookla-verified fastest 4G network and have a clear pathway to 5G - and customers will see further speed increases over the coming 18-24 months as these enhancements continue to be made.”
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