Zain Kuwait’s 5.5G trial achieves blistering download speeds

Download speeds of up to 10 Gbps were achieved during a recent 5.5G trial by network Zain Kuwait.

The 5.5G technology, which is also referred to as 5G-Advanced, is regarded as one of the final iterations before networks start switching over to 6G.

Benefits of 5.5G range from higher speeds, much lower latency, better device positioning for GPS services, as well as enhanced integration with Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) tech.

In a statement, Zain Kuwait said it used Huawei equipment for the trial, in collaboration with Kuwait’s Communication and Information Technology Regulatory Authority (CITRA).

Zain also showcased its network’s readiness for the rollout of 5G New Calling (5GNC). 5GNC looks to bring higher definition audio calls along with other more interactive, multimedia capabilities.

The announcement by Zain comes after the UAE’s e& by etisalat released a white paper this week in which it highlighted how it plans to roll out 5G-Advanced by 2025/26, with a view of preparing for 6G connectivity by the 2030s.

READ MORE: Why the UAE is closer to rolling out 6G

A key factor that networks in the region will have to contend with, though, is available spectrum.

In its latest white paper, e& by etisalat said that more radio frequencies would need to be made available in order to cater for the switchover.

“In anticipation of the 6G vision, the landscape requires additional spectrum beyond 2025-2030. Approximately 1.5-2.2 GHz of spectrum is projected to be essential for 6G, particularly in the 7-15 GHz centimetric range, ensuring the attainment of performance objectives,” said the authors.