For the first time, the telcos are going for the 700 MHz airwaves in India. That was also surprising for the analysts. Telcos had in the past avoided the 700MHz airwaves due to the high reserve price issue. But this time, Jio has probably made big bets on the 700MHz airwaves. The special thing about the 700 MHz frequency is the improved coverage it can deliver. In congested network regions, the 700 MHz airwaves can be a deal breaker. They can easily penetrate walls and objects to provide better coverage for indoor users. That is why these ether waves are also called ‘Premium’ in India.
Vodafone Idea and Bharti Airtel would also like 700MHz ether. But analysts say it’s likely that: jio only who has bid for the 700 MHz ether. It will definitely help the telco with both 4G and 5G services. The other private telcos can wait for another spectrum auction to get their hands on the 700MHz airwaves at a discounted price. Vodafone Idea (Vi) is not in a position to spend a lot of money on the 700 MHz ether. It prefers to stick to the new frequencies it does not have, namely 5G high-frequency air waves.
Airtel should also buy 700 MHz soon
As for Airtel, the company was made pretty clear when it said it wouldn’t bid on 700MHz ether if the reserve price is too high. There is no doubt that Airtel would also go for the 700MHz spectrum in the future auction if not this one as it is crucial to provide enhanced coverage services. Since Jio bought it, airtel shouldn’t take long to get it too.
In India, airwaves in the 700MHz band are considered premium due to the mere fact that there are many people using mobile network services, leading to network congestion. But with the 700 MHz band, that could effectively change.
