Advanced Info Service (AIS) has officially launched its 5G-Advanced network as Southeast Asia's first next-level 5G network standard, available in key areas across Bangkok and other areas nationwide.
The move marks an important step to transform 5G from a connectivity network into an intelligent digital platform harnessing artificial intelligence (AI), multiple frequency aggregation technology and global partnerships to redefine the benchmark for limitless speed.
According to Wasit Wattanasap, head of nationwide operations and the support business unit at AIS, in addition to development of hardware-software upgrades for its network built to support next-generation digital lifestyles and enterprise use cases, AIS 5G-Advanced also lays a strong foundation for the future transition towards 6G.
This advancement is driven by the integration of three core strengths: Partnership + AI + Innovation.
EFFICIENT TECHNOLOGY
The intelligent connectivity, powered by advanced capabilities such as multiple frequency aggregation Downlink 3 Component Carrier (3CC) and Uplink 2 Component Carrier (2CC), delivers faster downloads, stronger uploads, lower responsiveness and greater overall network efficiency.
The '5G+' symbol on the mobile screen indicates that a customer is connected to an enhanced 5G network with improved speed, stability, and performance.
Mr Wasit said this technology enables multiple frequency bands to work together seamlessly, with 3CC combining the 700 megahertz, 2100MHz, and 2600MHz bands, and 2CC combining the 700MHz and 2600MHz bands, significantly enhancing network performance and delivering a clearly superior connectivity experience.
The technology increases download speeds by up to 1.5 times through 5G SA (standalone) Downlink 2CC/3CC and upload speeds by up to two times through 5G SA Uplink 2CC.
The 2CC and 3CC aggregation are 5G/LTE technologies combining multiple frequency bands to increase data speeds and capacity.
2CC generally combines two bands for enhanced throughput, while 3CC aggregates three bands for higher speeds, significantly improving user experience in 5G-Advanced and high-traffic scenarios.
FASTER 5G EXPERIENCE
The core of AIS 5G-Advanced lies in carrier aggregation technology which combines multiple frequency bands to enhance performance across downloads, uploads, smoothness, stability and network responsiveness.
Whether customers are watching high-definition video, playing online games, live-streaming, uploading content or working through the cloud, those in service areas with compatible devices will be able to experience a clearly enhanced level of connectivity.
Mr Wasit said the company is also integrating AI into network traffic management through an autonomous network, enabling the network to analyse, adapt and respond efficiently to usage conditions in real time.
The 5G SA Downlink 3CC is available in Sathon and Bang Rak, with plans to expand to key areas across Bangkok later this year.
Meanwhile, 5G SA Downlink 2CC is already available in Bangkok and other major urban centres nationwide.
5G SA Uplink 2CC is available in major cities across the Northeast and Bangkok, and is expected to be available in large cities nationwide later this year.
For customers using AIS 5G-Advanced, the service can be identified by the 5G+ symbol shown at the upper-right corner of the mobile screen, indicating that the customer is connected to an enhanced 5G network with improved speed, stability and performance.
Availability depends on service area, supported frequency bands, compatible devices, and appropriate packages.
Customers who meet these conditions can access the enhanced 5G network experience without subscribing to an additional package.
The 5G-Advanced network supports smartphone operating systems on both Android and iOS.
Mr Wasit said consumer behaviour has changed dramatically, especially with the number of user uploads exceeding downloads via mobile devices in some areas, driven by greater adoption of AI applications.
UNIQUE DEVELOPMENT
Differing from other players, he said the 5G-Advanced network is not only an AI-ready network, but also compiles 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) Release 18 and the standard of 5G SA Downlink 2CC/3CC and 5G SA Uplink 2CC.
"Globally, only an operator in China previously launched 5G Advanced with development through both standard of 3GPP Release 18 condition and the 5G SA Downlink/Uplink multiple frequency aggregation tech," Mr Wasit said.
3GPP Release 18 is the first release of 5G-Advanced, initiating the second phase of 5G evolution. The release upgrades 5G system performance, efficiency and intelligence, focusing on AI (AI/ML), enhanced MIMO, non-terrestrial networks (NTN/satellite), and expanded industrial Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities.
The technology acts as a stepping stone towards 6G, he said.
Key features of the 3GPP Release 18 include AI/ML adoption, 5G-Advanced evolution, satellite access and further integration of NTNs for global coverage, IoT, and enhanced support for massive machine-type communications and reduced capability for industrial applications.
This release bridges the gap between commercial 5G and the future 6G, with a strong focus on balancing network performance with efficiency, Mr Wasit noted.
"AIS's key mission is to strengthen Thailand's digital infrastructure. The network development today is no longer only about increasing speed, signal coverage or the number of base stations. It is about building new capabilities for the country and delivering the best digital experience in every use case," he said.
The latest milestone in advancing Thailand into a new chapter of intelligent networks reinforces AIS's role as a national digital infrastructure provider, said Mr Wasit, as it remains committed to elevating the digital experience for Thais, businesses and industries, and enabling the country to move confidently into the future.
Source: https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3251073/ais-launches-5gadvanced-commercially
