Mobile operators Kyivstar and Vodafone Ukraine have decided to exchange frequencies in the 2,100 MHz band to optimize the 4G network. The decision was approved by the NCEC at its meeting on January 15.
The decision of the NCEC
According to the decision of the National Commission for State Regulation of Electronic Communications, Kyivstar will transfer part of its frequency rights (license) in 24 regions to Vodafone Ukraine. At the same time, Vodafone Ukraine will transfer part of its frequencies in 27 regions to Kyivstar.
The regulator’s decision reads:
- “to approve the transfer of individual rights to license No. 500 dated 17.12.2024 for cellular radio communications to Private Joint Stock Company VF Ukraine in the territory of 24 regions of Ukraine to PrJSC Kyivstar;
- to approve the transfer of part of the individual rights to use license No. 412 dated 29.11.2024 for cellular radio communications to PrJSC “Kyivstar” in 27 regions of Ukraine.”
The exchange of frequencies between the two largest mobile operators in Ukraine is a significant step in the development of the country’s telecommunications market. This decision is aimed at optimizing the use of the radio frequency spectrum, which in turn will lead to an improvement in the quality of mobile Internet for subscribers of both operators.
Key benefits for subscribers
- Faster mobile Internet speeds: Contiguous blocks of spectrum will allow more efficient use of LTE (4G) technology, increasing download and upload speeds.
- More stable signal: Reducing spectrum fragmentation will have a positive impact on connection stability, especially in high-traffic areas.
- Extended coverage: In theory, spectrum sharing can help extend the coverage of a 4G network, especially in remote areas.
Positive implications for operators
- Unified spectrum will allow operators to plan and deploy networks more efficiently.
- Improved service quality makes operators more attractive to subscribers and allows them to compete at a higher level.
- The resulting spectrum sharing can encourage operators to continue investing in the development of their networks, including the introduction of new technologies such as 5G.
Potential challenges
- Reconfiguring networks and moving subscribers to new frequencies is a complex technical process that can take time.
- While networks are being reconfigured, there may be temporary service interruptions, which can cause dissatisfaction among subscribers.
- Reconfiguring networks creates additional costs for operators.
Expert opinion
The frequency exchange between Kyivstar and Vodafone Ukraine is a positive development for the Ukrainian telecommunications market. The move demonstrates the operators’ commitment to improving the quality of their services and responding to the growing demand for high-speed mobile Internet. Despite possible temporary difficulties, this move will benefit both operators and subscribers in the long run.
