Indonesian mobile operator XLSMART has secured spectrum in the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands, strengthening its ability to expand 4G and 5G services while improving network capacity, coverage and digital connectivity across the country.
The newly acquired spectrum provides XLSMART with a combination of low-band and mid-band frequencies that will enable broader nationwide coverage alongside higher network capacity in densely populated areas. The investment forms part of Indonesia's ongoing efforts to optimize spectrum resources and support the growing demand for mobile broadband, enterprise connectivity and next-generation digital services.
The allocation also reinforces the strategic importance of spectrum as a key enabler of the country's digital economy and future 5G development.
Low-band and mid-band spectrum provide complementary advantages
The combination of the 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands gives operators greater flexibility in designing high-performance mobile networks.
The 700 MHz band is well suited for extending coverage across rural areas and improving indoor connectivity due to its wider propagation characteristics. Meanwhile, the 2.6 GHz band delivers greater capacity and faster data speeds in urban centres where network demand is highest.
Using both frequency bands enables operators to balance coverage and performance while supporting growing mobile data consumption.
Spectrum remains the foundation of 5G deployment
Access to additional spectrum is critical as operators continue expanding 5G infrastructure and introducing advanced digital services.
New spectrum allocations provide the bandwidth needed to accommodate increasing numbers of connected devices, support higher data throughput and reduce network congestion. They also enable operators to deliver enhanced services for enterprises, including industrial automation, smart cities, cloud applications and Internet of Things (IoT) deployments.
Efficient spectrum management is therefore becoming a key driver of long-term telecommunications growth.
Indonesia continues strengthening its digital infrastructure
Indonesia has made digital infrastructure development a national priority as it works to improve connectivity across its vast archipelago.
Expanding mobile broadband coverage and accelerating 5G deployment are expected to support economic development, digital inclusion and greater access to online education, healthcare, financial services and e-government platforms. Investments in spectrum, fibre backhaul and network modernisation will also help operators meet rising demand for high-quality digital services.
These efforts are creating a stronger foundation for Indonesia's rapidly expanding digital economy.
5G will unlock new enterprise opportunities
Beyond consumer connectivity, additional spectrum will enable operators to deliver more advanced services for businesses and public sector organisations.
High-capacity 5G networks can support smart manufacturing, logistics, transportation, healthcare and other mission-critical applications that require reliable, low-latency communications. As enterprises accelerate digital transformation, access to robust wireless infrastructure will become increasingly important for innovation and productivity.
Spectrum investments today are laying the groundwork for these future digital services.
Why this matters
XLSMART's acquisition of 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz spectrum strengthens its ability to expand nationwide connectivity while supporting Indonesia's long-term 5G ambitions. The combination of wider coverage and increased network capacity will help improve mobile broadband performance for consumers and create new opportunities for enterprise digital transformation.
Editor's note
Spectrum is one of the telecommunications industry's most valuable strategic assets, determining how effectively operators can expand coverage, increase capacity and deliver next-generation digital services. As countries accelerate 5G deployment, balanced access to low-band and mid-band frequencies is becoming essential for building high-performance networks that support both nationwide connectivity and data-intensive applications. XLSMART's latest spectrum acquisition reflects the continued importance of spectrum policy in shaping the future of digital infrastructure.
Source: MEA Tech Watch Press Reporter
