M1 to roll out HetNet, unveils plan for IoT network

SINGAPORE telco M1 will introduce the first commercial Heterogeneous Network (HetNet) following successful trials earlier this year.

HetNet will allow M1's customers to surf, without disruption, at high speeds with a peak download speed of more than 1 Gbps by 2017. This is up sharply from the current peak speed of 450Mbps.

Separately, M1 and Nokia also announced on Friday a strategic partnership to roll out a nationwide commercial narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) network by the first half of 2017.

M1 will invest more than S$50 million towards the two networks.

For HetNet, the telco said it will progressively roll out an overlay of integrated Nokia's Flexi Zone small cells and Wi-Fi equipment across hundreds of high-traffic hot spots nationwide, to complement its advanced 4G+ network.

Deployment sites will include MRT/LRT stations, malls and popular outdoor areas such as Marina Bay and Clarke Quay. M1 will also deploy them at hard-to-reach areas such as car parks, basements and parks.

"The results from our HetNet technology trials were positive. 90 per cent of users enjoyed a better mobile experience, with faster download and upload speeds," said Gabriel Lim, chief executive-designate, Info-communications Media Development Authority of Singapore. "As Singapore moves towards a Smart Nation, we look forward to working closer with companies in the tech, engineering and R&D space to develop solutions that can enhance connectivity and improve Singaporeans' lives."

Karen Kooi, chief executive of M1, said: "Our HetNet rollout will enable us to further enrich our customers' lives. This HetNet deployment is also an integral part of our 5G network roadmap."