DISH Wireless has many goals when it comes to unleashing 5G throughout the country. One of those efforts is considerably focused on the application of 5G towards private fixed wireless networks for homes and businesses. Now, DISH will face increased pressure to build out its standalone, nationwide 5G network with T-Mobile announcing its ambitions to expand its fixed wireless capabilities.
The idea isn’t exactly new with T-Mobile already running tests in the markets of Grand Rapids, Michigan. The company has long desired to enter the fixed wireless game but this new expansion of mid-band spectrum sites will help it execute those ambitions. Mid-band spectrum will help companies bring faster speeds to more rural markets which is exactly what is needed to power fixed wireless networks. T-Mobile is looking to cover 90% of the U.S. population with a fixed wireless network within the next six years. This is important because as part of its terms with the FCC to allow its merger with Sprint, they are required to cover 66% of the rural markets with a 5G fixed wireless network capable of reaching download speeds of 100 Mbps.
Fixed wireless is growing a lot of interest as more homes rely on powerful Internet due to the COVID-19 pandemic and companies look for ways to improve their own capabilities through private networks. The revenue that is in play is astounding and it is no surprise that companies such as DISH and T-Mobile are vying for their pieces of a very profitable pie. Even Verizon is testing its capabilities within a few select markets.
The aggressive tactics of T-Mobile to deploy 700-800 2.5 GHz mid-band sites each week is as impressive as it is eye-popping. By deploying radios and antennas to existing infrastructure, they can cut costs and time to execute this plan. It remains to be seen how DISH will be able to keep its own timeline of covering 70% of the nation with a 5G network by June 2023. Fulfilling this will help the satellite giant avoid a multi-billion dollar fine from the government as a result of the terms to purchase Boost Mobile this summer, while also realizing its ambitions to expand its wireless brand.
Source: Fixed Wireless
