Author: Affandy Johan

Affandy Johan is the Industry Analyst at Ookla. He utilizes Ookla's data to develop insightful analyses covering various factors and aspects impacting the market. Affandy has extensive experience in the telecom industry, having worked for major vendors and operators in the Asia Pacific region.
Ookla Research™ Articles
| March 25, 2025

Charting Malaysia’s 5G Journey: From Urban Priorities to Nationwide Coverage

Malaysia has made strong progress in improving mobile internet connectivity nationwide in recent years. Key government initiatives, particularly the National Digital Network Plan (JENDELA), combined with investments by telecommunications operators, have driven this growth. However, challenges remain in rural areas, where coverage is still inconsistent.

Key Takeaways

  • Malaysia’s mobile download speed increased 2.3 times as 5G adoption surged. Malaysia’s mobile performance improved significantly between Q1 2023 and Q4 2024, with median download speeds increasing 2.3 times from 45.57 Mbps to 105.36 Mbps. Upload speeds also rose from 12.84 Mbps to 19.62 Mbps. 5G adoption played a key role, growing from 6.7% of connections in Q1 2023 to 41.9% by Q4 2024.
  • From early to mid-2023, 5G Availability in Malaysia expanded from major urban states to more rural areas. Between Q1 2023 and Q4 2024, rural states saw noticeable increases in 5G Availability — the proportion of users of 5G-capable devices who spend most of their time on 5G networks — driven by network expansion beyond urban centers. Labuan Federal Territory recorded the largest increase, with a 34.3 percentage point rise.
  • Rural states reported faster 5G speeds than urban ones, due to lower congestion and network demand. In Q4 2024, states with lower 5G Availability, such as Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang, recorded median 5G download speeds exceeding 366 Mbps. Meanwhile, urbanized states like Selangor and Kuala Lumpur, with higher 5G Availability, reported slower speeds below 280 Mbps, highlighting the increasing strain on urban networks as 5G adoption accelerates.

Improving Nationwide Connectivity in Malaysia

The efforts of the Malaysian regulator, Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC), and major telecommunications operators have been pivotal in narrowing the digital divide and improving internet connectivity nationwide. Central to these efforts is the Jalinan Digital Negara (JENDELA) program, which aims to expand 4G coverage, increase mobile broadband speeds, and prepare the country for 5G rollout. Phase 1, completed in 2022, focused on strengthening 4G networks and shutting down 3G services. By the end of this phase, 4G coverage had reached 96.9% of populated areas, with average mobile broadband speeds of 116.03 Mbps. Phase 2, which runs from 2022 to 2025, builds on this progress with targets of mean mobile broadband speeds of 100 Mbps and achieving 100% 4G and 80% 5G population coverage.

Malaysia’s 5G rollout has been a central part of its connectivity strategy, with Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB) leading the deployment of 5G infrastructure as the single wholesale network provider. The rollout aims to provide widespread 5G coverage by 2025, unlocking opportunities for advancements in smart cities, healthcare, and logistics.  In May 2023, the Malaysian government announced plans to introduce a second 5G network provider, contingent on DNB reaching 80% population coverage. DNB met this milestone in December 2023, recording 80.2% coverage. This achievement paved the path for the government to award the second 5G network license to U Mobile. According to MCMC, introducing a second provider is expected to drive competition, enhance network resilience, and help lower costs for consumers in the long term.

Steady 5G adoption pushes Malaysia’s mobile download speeds past 100 Mbps

Speedtest Intelligence® data reveals that Malaysia has experienced a steady increase in both mobile median download and upload speeds for all technologies. Our data reveals that median mobile download speeds for all technologies combined in Malaysia increased 2.3 times from 45.57 Mbps up to 105.36 Mbps between Q1 2023 and Q4 2024. There was a slight improvement across upload speeds, with the median mobile upload speed in the market  increasing in the same period from 12.84 Mbps to 19.62 Mbps.

Mobile (All Technologies Combined) Performance, Malaysia
Speedtest Intelligence® | Q1 2023 – Q4 2024

The continuous expansion of the 5G network by the nation’s 5G single wholesale network (SWN) provider, DNB, and increased 5G adoption has helped with the upward increase of mobile speed in the past two years. Data from GSMA Intelligence shows a steady and consistent increase in the percentage of 5G connections in Malaysia from Q1 2023 to Q4 2024. 5G connections grew from 6.7% in Q1 2023 to 21.7% by Q4 2023, and further to 41.9% by Q4 2024.

Percentage of Mobile Connections on 5G in Malaysia
GSMA Intelligence | Q1 2023 – Q4 2024

This sustained growth reflects expanding 5G coverage, the increasing availability of 5G devices, and growing consumer and enterprise demand for faster, more reliable mobile connectivity. The rollout by DNB and efforts by mobile operators to make 5G plans more accessible have contributed to this adoption. The data suggests that 5G has transitioned from early adoption stages to becoming a mainstream technology, with continued growth expected as 5G coverage expands nationwide.

5G Deployment Focus Shifts Toward Broader State-Level Coverage

By the end of 2022, DNB had achieved 50% 5G coverage of populated areas. Following this milestone, the government accelerated its target, mandating DNB to reach 80% coverage by the end of 2023 — a goal that was originally set for the end of 2024. Ookla’s 5G Availability data from Speedtest Intelligence represents the proportion of users of 5G-capable devices who spend most of their time on 5G networks. Between Q1 2023 and Q4 2024, Malaysia’s 5G Availability increased from 20.9% to 32.8%.

Analysis of the data from Q1 2023 to Q4 2024 reveals clear shifts in 5G deployment patterns across Malaysia. In early 2023, major cities and urban centers such as Putrajaya (35.4%), the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur (29.3%), and Johor (18%) reported the highest levels of 5G Availability. This early focus on urban areas was expected, as these densely populated locations provided faster returns on investment and met immediate demand from businesses and consumers.

5G Availability (%) Trend by State, Malaysia
Speedtest Intelligence® | Q1 2023 – Q4 2024

By mid-2023, deployment efforts began shifting toward smaller and more rural states. This shift is reflected in the substantial increases in 5G Availability in areas such as Labuan Federal Territory (+34.4 percentage points), Penang (+20.8), Kedah (+19.1), and Terengganu (+18.4). These gains align with the objectives of JENDELA Phase 2, which aims to extend 5G connectivity nationwide. The strong growth in these regions demonstrates the government’s and operators’ commitment to bridging the digital divide and ensuring more balanced connectivity between urban centers and rural communities.

Percentage Point Growth in 5G Availability Across Malaysian States
Speedtest Intelligence® | Q1 2023 – Q4 2024

Urbanized states and territories continued to see steady growth in 5G Availability, though at a slower rate compared to more rural states. For example, Putrajaya and Kuala Lumpur reported smaller increases of 16.1 and 10.4 percentage points, respectively, showing that these areas were already well covered and improvements were focused on coverage quality and capacity enhancements rather than new deployments. This deployment strategy reflects a balanced national approach — solidifying urban 5G readiness while expanding access into smaller cities and rural regions to meet nationwide targets.

Rural states show lower 5G Availability but experience faster 5G speeds

Data for Q4 2024 highlights significant differences in 5G performance across Malaysian states. Rural states such as Kelantan, Terengganu, and Pahang report the highest median 5G download speeds, with Kelantan leading at 392.04 Mbps, followed by Terengganu at 375.38 Mbps and Pahang at 366.03 Mbps. However, these states also have lower 5G Availability, with Kelantan at 18.2%, Pahang at 17.3%, and Terengganu at 23.4%. In contrast, more developed areas such as Putrajaya and the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur, despite having higher 5G Availability rates of 51.5% and 39.7%, show lower median download speeds of 325.47 Mbps and 243.21 Mbps, respectively.

5G Availability (%) and Median 5G Download Speed (Mbps) By State, Malaysia
Speedtest Intelligence® | Q4 2024

This is somewhat expected, as the higher 5G speeds in rural states can be attributed to lower user density and less network congestion. With fewer users accessing the network simultaneously, available bandwidth is distributed among a smaller number of connections, resulting in faster speeds. Additionally, the rollout of 5G infrastructure in these states is often targeted at the state’s capital city and  major towns. However, the limited availability indicates that coverage is still expanding and does not yet reach the broader population. In contrast, urban areas such as Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Selangor, which have higher 5G Availability, experience lower median speeds due to higher user demand and potential network congestion. As 5G adoption continues to grow and more users connect to the network, performance fluctuations are expected due to increasing traffic demand.

Malaysia’s 5G landscape faces new dynamics with the introduction of a second 5G provider

In November 2024, Malaysia’s government announced a shift to a 5G dual-network wholesale model, and granted a second 5G wholesale network license to U Mobile, the country’s third-largest mobile network operator. The government’s decision to introduce a second 5G network reflects a strategic effort to increase competition, improve service delivery, and accelerate the nationwide rollout of 5G. U Mobile has committed to deploying this network independently, with a target completion by mid-2026, positioning itself as a major player in Malaysia’s next-generation connectivity landscape.

The shift to a dual-network model is expected to bring several advantages to the market. Increased competition between two wholesale providers should lead to better network quality and more competitive pricing for mobile network operators and end consumers. This dual-network setup strengthens resilience in the national network infrastructure by reducing reliance on a single provider. Furthermore, having two competing 5G networks could drive innovation and encourage more aggressive investment in new technologies and service enhancements that will benefit sectors like healthcare, smart cities, and logistics, all of which are part of Malaysia’s digital transformation agenda. 

However, this development does not come without challenges. Deploying a second nationwide 5G network requires significant investment in infrastructure, spectrum management, and network operations. There is a risk of resource duplication and inefficiencies if the two operators do not coordinate their efforts, especially in areas where coverage overlaps. Additionally, dual wholesale network could become an issue, potentially slowing the unified growth of the 5G ecosystem. Interoperability between the two networks, as well as integration with existing 4G infrastructure, will also require careful management to ensure seamless service quality for consumers and businesses alike.

We will continue to monitor Malaysia’s telecom market as it evolves. For more information about Speedtest Intelligence data and insights, please contact us.

Ookla retains ownership of this article including all of the intellectual property rights, data, content graphs and analysis. This article may not be quoted, reproduced, distributed or published for any commercial purpose without prior consent. Members of the press and others using the findings in this article for non-commercial purposes are welcome to publicly share and link to report information with attribution to Ookla.

About the Author

Affandy Johan

Ookla Research™ Articles
| March 16, 2025

Checking In with Speed: Wi-Fi Performance in Luxury Hotels Across APAC’s Top Business Hubs

Hong Kong

For business travelers, fast and reliable Wi-Fi is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. In today’s digital-first business environment, seamless connectivity enables real-time communication, access to cloud-based applications, and virtual meetings, all of which are critical for productivity and efficiency. A hotel’s Wi-Fi quality plays a major role in a business traveler’s accommodation choice, making high-speed internet a key differentiator for luxury hotels in APAC’s top business cities.

Key Takeaways

  • Only five out of the selected 20 hotels provided Wi-Fi with a median download speed of at least 100 Mbps. The majority of selected hotels fall into either the good performers category (50–100 Mbps) or the laggards category (below 50 Mbps). Leading hotels such as The Peninsula Tokyo and Rosewood Hong Kong demonstrate the benefits of investing in high-quality Wi-Fi infrastructure. 
  • Having a strong national broadband infrastructure does not guarantee fast hotel Wi-Fi. Even in cities with strong broadband infrastructure like Singapore, inconsistent hotel speeds highlight the need for better in-house network optimization. Raffles Singapore and InterContinental Singapore, for example, recorded some of the lowest speeds at 21.35 Mbps and 20.03 Mbps, respectively, underscoring the importance of proper Wi-Fi setup for a better guest experience.
  • Wi-Fi performance in APAC luxury hotels strongly correlates with the adoption of modern technology and effective frequency band usage. Top-performing hotels lead with 47.1% of tests conducted on Wi-Fi 6 and a high reliance on the 5 GHz band (88.4%), delivering faster speeds and more stable connections. In contrast, hotels with download speeds less than 50 Mbps relied heavily on outdated standards, with 75.2% of tests conducted on Wi-Fi 4 and Wi-Fi 5 and only 69.8% of their tests using the faster 5 GHz band. 

Connectivity is a key factor for business travelers in APAC

The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region remains a major hub for global business travel, driven by strong economic growth and dynamic markets. In 2023, business travel spending in APAC surged by 41%, reaching US$567 billion, with projections to exceed US$800 billion by 2027. The top five business meeting destinations in APAC; Singapore, Tokyo, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Sydney, serve as major business hubs, attracting professionals from around the world.

This report analyzes Wi-Fi performance in selected 5-star hotels across the five cities: Singapore, Tokyo, Bangkok, Hong Kong, and Sydney, with the addition of hotels in Bali, a key location for international conventions and events such as the G20 Bali Summit, the APEC Summit, and the World Bank Annual Meeting.

Map: List of selected hotels and location (cities)

Map of locations of select 5-star hotels in APAC

APAC luxury business hotels show mixed Wi-Fi performance

Using Speedtest Intelligence® data, we analyzed median download speeds inside and around selected hotel properties throughout 2024. This year-long period allows us to assess Wi-Fi performance and stability under varying hotel occupancy levels and guest profiles. To ensure data reliability, we excluded hotels with insufficient measurement samples and focused only on the most commonly used Wi-Fi network at each hotel—typically the one freely accessible to guests.

Chart of Wi-Fi Performance for Select Hotels in Asia Pacific

The Wi-Fi download speeds of selected hotels across major APAC business destinations show significant variation, with some properties delivering top-tier connectivity while others fall short. In a similar report that analyzed Wi-Fi download speeds of luxury hotels in the MENA region, we categorized the results to three groups of hotels based on Wi-Fi download speed:

  1. Top performers are hotels that offer exceptionally fast Wi-Fi, with median download speeds exceeding 100 Mbps. Such speeds provide seamless connectivity for business travelers, enabling ultra-high-definition video conferencing, large file transfers, and lag-free virtual collaboration. These results suggest that these hotels have made significant investments in high-performance Wi-Fi infrastructure, ensuring a premium experience for their guests.
  2. Good performers offer solid Wi-Fi performance, ranging between 50 Mbps and 100 Mbps. These speeds are sufficient for most business activities, including video conferencing, cloud-based work, and high-speed browsing. While they don’t reach the top-tier speeds of the leading hotels, they still provide a strong and stable connection for business travelers.
  3. Performance laggards include hotels with a median download speed below 50 Mbps, which may impact business travelers relying on high-speed internet for seamless virtual meetings, large data transfers, or streaming-intensive work applications. 

Top performers represent 23.8% of the properties reviewed in this report. The Peninsula Tokyo is a leader, offering nearly double the speed (188.57 Mbps) of the next best hotel, Rosewood Hong Kong (113.21 Mbps). The InterContinental Grand Stanford Hong Kong also secured a position among the top performers, with a reported download speed of 109.74 Mbps, reinforcing Hong Kong’s strong presence in high-quality hotel Wi-Fi infrastructure.

The good performers category included properties such as Island Shangri-La Hong Kong (99.33 Mbps), Four Seasons Hotel Sydney and Tokyo (99.05 Mbps and 80.68 Mbps respectively), Mandarin Oriental Bangkok (88.58 Mbps), The Ritz-Carlton Tokyo (73.46 Mbps), and Marina Bay Sands Singapore (70.51 Mbps). These speeds are sufficient for most business activities, including video conferencing, online collaboration, and cloud-based applications. Notably, hotels in Bali, such as W Seminyak Bali and The St. Regis Bali Resort performed well, recording download speeds of 56.63 Mbps and 50.25 Mbps respectively, suggesting that luxury resorts catering to international business events are prioritizing strong internet connectivity. The presence of multiple Four Seasons properties in this range also indicates that while this chain generally provides good connectivity, they do not always reach the highest tier of performance.

Almost all of the cities have hotels in the laggards’ category. Despite Singapore’s strong fixed broadband infrastructure, and consistently topping Speedtest Global Index fixed broadband ranking, hotel Wi-Fi performance varied significantly. This suggests that the issue is most likely with the Wi-Fi network configuration rather than national broadband capacity. Raffles Singapore and InterContinental Singapore recorded some of the lowest speeds in the list, at 21.35 Mbps, and 20.03 Mbps respectively.

Modern Wi-Fi technology boost hotel connectivity performance 

Many factors influence Wi-Fi performance, including network design and the number of users connected to each access point (AP). Wi-Fi technology has also evolved significantly, with each generation introducing key improvements in speed, efficiency, and capacity. Rolling out modern, well-configured Wi-Fi equipment enhances reliability while maximizing the performance benefits of newer Wi-Fi technology.

Speedtest Intelligence data reveals a clear correlation between Wi-Fi standards and network performance across the three categories. Top performers reported more test samples on Wi-Fi 6 (47.1%), with a smaller share using Wi-Fi 5 (32.9%) and Wi-Fi 4 (20.0%). In contrast, good-performing hotels reported 61.9% of samples were on Wi-Fi 5, with only 21% utilizing Wi-Fi 6. Performance laggards rely more on older Wi-Fi 4 and Wi-Fi 5 setups, with a combined total of 77.7% of test samples reported on these two Wi-Fi standards.

Test Distribution by Wi-Fi Standard for Different Hotels’ Performance Levels
Source: Speedtest Intelligence | Jan 2024 – Dec 2024

The distribution of Wi-Fi frequency bands further demonstrates the impact of network optimization on hotel performance. Hotels in the Top Performers category conducted 88.4% of their tests on the 5 GHz frequency band, followed by 80.8% for Good Performers hotels. Performance Laggards reported the lowest distribution at 64.6%.

Test Distribution by Frequency Band for Different Hotels’ Performance Levels
Source: Speedtest Intelligence | Jan 2024 – Dec 2024

Meeting the needs of modern business travelers

Reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi is essential for business travelers in luxury hotels. Poor connectivity disrupts productivity, affects virtual meetings, and leads to guest dissatisfaction. To remain competitive, hotels must invest in strategic Wi-Fi planning and infrastructure upgrades to meet the increasing connectivity demands of business travelers.

Effective Wi-Fi planning requires upgrading to modern standards such as Wi-Fi 6E or 7, thereby unlocking wider channels in the  6 GHz band to help alleviate congestion, and optimizing network capacity for high-density environments. Hotels must assess access point placement, bandwidth allocation, interference management, and simultaneous device connections to ensure a seamless experience for guests.

To address these connectivity gaps, professional Wi-Fi design solutions like Ekahau help hotels optimize network configurations from the outset. These tools enable precise access point placement, configuration, and performance monitoring, ensuring reliable coverage and high-speed connectivity across all areas of the hotel. Proper planning and investment in advanced Wi-Fi infrastructure are critical for delivering a seamless and high-quality digital experience for business travelers.

Ookla can assist hospitality property managers in designing Wi-Fi networks, monitoring their performance, and optimizing them. Please contact us to learn more about Speedtest Intelligence and Ekahau.

Ookla retains ownership of this article including all of the intellectual property rights, data, content graphs and analysis. This article may not be quoted, reproduced, distributed or published for any commercial purpose without prior consent. Members of the press and others using the findings in this article for non-commercial purposes are welcome to publicly share and link to report information with attribution to Ookla.

Hong Kong
WiFi

About the Author

Affandy Johan

Ookla Research™ Articles
| March 10, 2025

5G at Maha Kumbh: How Networks Handled the World’s Largest Gathering

The Maha Kumbh Mela, which took place in Prayagraj between January 12 and February 26, 2025, was one of the biggest religious gatherings in history. This event also served as a large-scale stress test for India’s 5G networks, which launched commercially in October 2022. With millions relying on mobile connectivity in a high-density environment, telecom operators faced the challenge of ensuring uninterrupted service amid surging network traffic.

Key Takeaways

  • 5G maintained a significant performance advantage over 4G during Maha Kumbh 2025, despite periods of congestion. While 5G download speeds dropped from 259.67 Mbps in early January to 151.09 Mbps at peak congestion on January 26, it later recovered to 206.82 Mbps by the end of the event. In contrast, 4G speeds remained consistently lower, ranging from 13.38 Mbps to 21.68 Mbps, making 5G at least nine times faster even at its lowest point.
  • Jio led 5G performance, with a median download speed of 201.87 Mbps, followed by Airtel at 165.23 Mbps. Meanwhile, 4G networks struggled under heavy user density, with Vi India recording 4G median download speed at just 20.06 Mbps, followed by Jio (18.19 Mbps), Airtel (17.65 Mbps), and BSNL (11.64 Mbps).
  • Jio reported 83.9% 5G availability, nearly twice that of Airtel’s 42.4%, ensuring broader coverage and more consistent connectivity for users. Jio’s aggressive 5G rollout leveraged the 700 MHz low-band spectrum, enabling wider signal coverage across the densely packed mela ground.
  • 5G significantly improved response times, reducing delays in browsing and video playback even under heavy network congestion. Jio and Airtel reported 5G page load times of 1.99 seconds, compared to longer 4G load times, with Jio at 2.40 seconds, Airtel at 2.36 seconds, Vi India at 2.44 seconds, and BSNL at 2.70 seconds. A similar trend was seen in video streaming, where Jio and Airtel reported 5G video start times of 1.79 seconds. While 4G remained functional, its higher latency and slower response times made it less effective for web browsing and video streaming at such a large-scale event.

A Massive Gathering with High Connectivity Demand

The Kumbh Mela, held every 12 years at rotating locations in India, is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world. The 2025 Maha Kumbh Mela, a special occasion occurring once every 144 years, took place in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, from January 13 to February 26. The event attracted over 660 million devotees by the concluding day, creating an unprecedented demand for mobile connectivity as attendees relied on their devices for communication, navigation, and digital transactions.

The sheer scale of the event presents unique challenges for telecom providers, as mobile networks will need to support massive spikes in voice and data traffic. The increasing penetration of smartphones, coupled with the rising demand for high-speed internet, has made telecom infrastructure a key enabler of the modern Kumbh experience. To address these demands, telecom operators deployed temporary network infrastructure, and enhanced radio and backhaul capacity.

The Speedtest® sample density shows a gradual increase in activity around the Triveni Sangam, the confluence point of the three holy rivers, as the Maha Kumbh 2025 progresses. Sample density remains low in early January but rises significantly from January 20 onward, peaking between January 27 and February 17 during key bathing dates. Elevated sample density persists until the last week of the festival.

Animation of maps of Speedtest Sample Density in Prayagraj, India

The Department of Telecommunications (DoT), have instructed telecom operators to implement extensive infrastructure enhancements. In Prayagraj city, 328 new towers have been installed. Additionally, 575 new Base Transceiver Stations (BTS) have been deployed, and 1,462 existing BTS units have been upgraded, as well as tens of Cells on Wheels deployed to bolster network capacity. 

To further enhance connectivity and crowd management, Maha Kumbh 2025 integrated advanced technological innovations, including AI-powered surveillance cameras for real-time crowd monitoring and RFID wristbands to track missing individuals. A dedicated mobile app provided real-time location tracking, emergency alerts, and navigation assistance for pilgrims. Additionally, disaster management centers were equipped with satellite communication systems and emergency response kiosks to ensure uninterrupted communication in case of network failures. These combined efforts played a crucial role in managing the massive crowds while maintaining network efficiency and ensuring public safety.

5G performance stands up to demand surge

Speedtest Intelligence® data reveals variations in the weekly median download and upload speeds for 5G and 4G networks in Prayagraj, starting from the first week of January 2025 before the festival began until the end of the Maha Kumbh event. 5G median download speeds started at 259.67 Mbps in early January but declined by over 40% to 151.09 Mbps on January 26, coinciding with peak pilgrimage days and increased network congestion. 5G speeds recovered to 201.43 Mbps by February 9 and further improved to 206.82 Mbps by February 23, during the final week of the festival. In contrast, 4G speeds remained consistently lower, ranging between 13.38 Mbps (January 19) and 21.68 Mbps (February 23). Even at its lowest, 5G was still 9.5 times faster than 4G, highlighting its ability to handle high traffic demand more effectively.

5G upload speeds followed a similar pattern, starting at 19.71 Mbps, declining to 12.99 Mbps on January 26, and recovering to 17.95 Mbps by the end of February. 4G upload speeds remained below 5 Mbps, peaking at 4.85 Mbps. The three to five times difference in upload speeds allowed 5G users to share information and content faster, which was critical for pilgrims relying on mobile connectivity. While both networks experienced slowdowns, 5G provided more uplift in performance compared to 4G, reinforcing its role in supporting high-density events like Maha Kumbh.

5G and 4G Performance Weekly Trend of All Providers Combined in Prayagraj, India
Speedtest Intelligence® | Week of Dec 30 2024 till Feb 24 2025

5G Sustains High Performance Despite Unprecedented Mobile Traffic

Operators network performance during the event varied based on infrastructure deployment and congestion levels. Reliance Jio delivered the highest 5G median download speeds at 201.87 Mbps, followed by Airtel at 165.23 Mbps. The strong 5G speeds indicate successful deployment of high-capacity networks designed to handle the surge in data demand. Jio’s 5G Standalone (SA) network played a crucial role, efficiently managing 20 million voice calls and 400 million data service requests at peak times.

Airtel has also taken several measures to enhance the connectivity experience for its customers. To support the increased capacity demand, Airtel enhanced its network by deploying 287 new sites, optimizing over 340 existing ones, and laying an additional 74 kilometers of fiber in Prayagraj. These efforts contributed to maintaining strong 5G speeds despite heavy usage.

5G and 4G Performance by Providers in Prayagraj
Speedtest Intelligence® | Jan 13 – Feb 27 2025

While 5G provided high-speed connectivity, 4G speeds were significantly lower across all operators, reflecting network congestion and capacity limitations. Vi India recorded the 4G median download speed at 20.06 Mbps, followed by Jio (18.19 Mbps), Airtel (17.65 Mbps), and BSNL (11.64 Mbps). The slower speeds suggest that 4G networks struggled under high user density, as a large portion of attendees still relied on 4G devices.

Jio’s 5G Availability Nearly Twice That of Airtel

Ookla’s 5G Availability data from Speedtest Intelligence represents the percentage of 5G-active devices that spend the majority of their time connected to 5G networks. Analysis of the data indicates that Jio achieved 83.9% 5G Availability throughout the Maha Kumbh period. This was significantly higher than Airtel’s 42.4%. This reflects Jio’s aggressive deployment of 5G infrastructure in Prayagraj, supported by its use of the 700 MHz low-band spectrum further enhanced its reach, allowing for stronger signal penetration across the vast mela grounds, where millions were densely packed.

5G Availability by Providers in Prayagraj, India
Speedtest Intelligence® | Jan 13 – Feb 27 2025

In contrast, Airtel’s 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) network, while delivering strong 5G speeds, had lower availability. This is most likely due to its reliance on mid-band spectrum, which has a shorter coverage range compared to low-band frequency deployment.

5G Improves Response Time, Delivering a Better User Experience

Speedtest Intelligence Quality of Experience data was used to assess web page load times and video start times on 5G and 4G networks during the Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj. These measurements reflect real-world user experiences, such as accessing social media, browsing websites, and streaming videos. Faster page and video load times contribute to better user experience, reducing frustration and enhancing the overall digital experience in high-traffic environments.

5G and 4G Page Download Time and Video Start Time by Providers in Prayagraj, India
Speedtest Intelligence® | Jan 13 – Feb 27 2025

The data shows that 5G reduced page load times across all operators compared to 4G, demonstrating its performance uplift even in high traffic demand situations. Jio and Airtel recorded similar 5G page load times at 1.99 seconds, while 4G networks experienced longer load times, with Jio at 2.40 seconds, Airtel at 2.36 seconds, Vi India at 2.44 seconds, and BSNL at 2.70 seconds.

The video start time data also reflects a difference in performance between 5G and 4G. Jio and Airtel had similar video start times on 5G at 1.79 seconds, allowing for quicker video playback. The difference between 5G and 4G video start times was 0.75 seconds for Jio, and 0.78 seconds for Airtel, showing that 5G reduced buffering delays and improved streaming efficiency.

These results highlight how 5G networks managed digital demand more effectively than 4G during the Maha Kumbh. While 4G networks remained functional, their higher latency and longer load times made them less efficient for web browsing and video playback in a high-density setting. 

Ensuring Robust Network Performance Amidst Massive Gatherings

The Maha Kumbh 2025 in Prayagraj presented one of the most significant challenges for telecom operators, with over 660 million attendees relying on mobile connectivity. Despite the extreme demand, operators successfully maintained strong network performance through strategic infrastructure upgrades and advanced technologies. 

The introduction of 5G technology significantly enhanced user experiences at the event. A study by Ericsson revealed that 5G users reported 20% higher satisfaction compared to their 4G counterparts at major events in 2024. This improvement is attributed to 5G’s higher data transfer speeds and lower latency, facilitating smoother and faster streaming of high-quality video content. The deployment of 5G SA, particularly on Jio’s 700 MHz spectrum, contributed to broader coverage and improved network responsiveness, while Airtel’s 5G NSA, operating on mid-band frequencies, provided high speeds in select locations.

The strategies deployed during Maha Kumbh 2025 demonstrate that proactive planning, infrastructure expansion, and the integration of advanced technologies are key to ensuring robust mobile network performance in large-scale public gatherings. Upcoming global gatherings, such as the 2028 Olympics, will require similarly advanced planning and network expansion to accommodate millions of attendees. We’ll continue to benchmark and track network performance during major events, based on Speedtest Intelligence data. For more information, please contact us.

Ookla retains ownership of this article including all of the intellectual property rights, data, content graphs and analysis. This article may not be quoted, reproduced, distributed or published for any commercial purpose without prior consent. Members of the press and others using the findings in this article for non-commercial purposes are welcome to publicly share and link to report information with attribution to Ookla.

About the Author

Affandy Johan

Ookla Research™ Articles
| February 16, 2025

5G in High Places: Indoor Coverage Across the World's Iconic Skyscrapers

UAE

Skyscrapers are not just architectural achievements; they also test the limits of telecommunications and connectivity systems. These structures highlight both the obstacles and innovations required for seamless connectivity in high-rise environments. This report, using data from Cell Analytics™, benchmarks the 5G indoor coverage experience in nine of the world’s most iconic buildings by analyzing the average Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ), providing critical insights into the signal strength and quality that subscribers experience within these architectural marvels.

Icons That Shape Skylines

Modern skyscrapers are more than just towering structures—they shape city skylines, serve as commercial and cultural hubs, and play a crucial role in defining a nation’s global presence. Their impact also goes beyond aesthetics. They contribute significantly to a city’s economy by attracting businesses, investors, and tourists. For example, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai has helped position the city as a global business and tourism hub, drawing millions of visitors each year. Similarly, the Empire State Building in New York remains a historic landmark and one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.

Using Ookla® Cell Analytics™ data, we analyzed nine of the most iconic buildings in the world, recognized for their unique architectural designs, global influence, and economic and cultural significance.

Chart of select skyscrapers of the world by height and significance

Most skyscrapers provide strong signal strength but coverage gaps still exist

Drilling down into data at the individual building from the second half of 2024, we evaluated subscribers’ 5G indoor experience by measuring the average Reference Signal Received Power (RSRP) and Reference Signal Received Quality (RSRQ). RSRP represents the network signal strength received by a mobile phone. An RSRP value that exceeds -90 dBm indicates superior coverage. If the signal strength is between -90 dBm and -100 dBm, then network coverage is considered good. Below this range, expect slower download speeds and potential network disconnections. RSRQ is a metric used to evaluate the quality of the reference signal received by a device. A value of -10 dB or higher indicates excellent network quality while a value between -10 dB and -15 dB is considered good. An RSRQ value lower than -15 dB is poor or indicates no signal at all.

“> chart of indoor 5G signal strength and quality in select skyscrapers of the world, indoor 5G lower 10%, Top 10%, and mean RSRP (dBm)
“> chart of indoor 5G signal strength and quality in select skyscrapers of the world, indoor 5G lower 10%, Top 10%, and mean RSRQ (dB)

Overall, the ​​5G indoor coverage across the nine skyscrapers reveals that most buildings provide superior 5G signal strength, as well as excellent network quality. However, some still face challenges in ensuring consistent connectivity. Shanghai Tower recorded the strongest 5G signal among all buildings, with a weighted average RSRP of -71.04 dBm of all samples detected inside the building. This suggests a well-optimized indoor network, likely supported by China’s extensive 5G infrastructure. As China is one of the major leaders in 5G deployment, major urban centers like Shanghai benefit from advanced indoor network solutions, such as small cells and distributed antenna systems (DAS), ensuring strong coverage even in high-rise environments.

Burj Khalifa in UAE, and the Empire State Building New York City, showed strong 5G coverage, with average RSRP values of -85.53 dBm and -83.19 dBm, respectively. Both buildings also reported very good signal quality, with an average RSRQ of -11.07 dB and -11.95 dB respectively. The Empire State Building, completed in 1931, has undergone modernization efforts to enhance its telecommunications infrastructure. Similarly, the Burj Khalifa benefits from Dubai’s extensive 5G rollout, with the UAE ranking among the top countries in 5G performance.

The Shard in London reported the weakest 5G coverage among the selected buildings, with an average RSRP of -96.69 dBm. The Shard’s glass-heavy design may contribute to this weaker performance, as glass can reflect and absorb mobile signals. The building also reported a much weaker signal strength in the lower 10% with RSRP value of -113 dBM, indicating that in certain areas of the building, users are experiencing poor 5G coverage and quality.

Taipei 101 and the Petronas Twin Towers in Kuala Lumpur, showed good average 5G RSRP but experienced weaker signals in certain areas. The lower 10% RSRP values for both buildings were below -100 dBm (-105.00 dBm for Taipei 101 and -101.00 dBm for Petronas Twin Towers), suggesting that parts of these buildings may suffer from inconsistent coverage. Taipei 101 was designed to withstand earthquakes and typhoons, incorporating thick concrete and reinforced steel, which can interfere with mobile signals. While the Petronas Twin Towers currently lack a dedicated indoor 5G coverage solution.

One World Trade Center in New York City and Autograph Tower in Jakarta had similar 5G characteristics, with very good average RSRP around -85 dBm or better, but the reported lower 10% values suggest potential dead zones or weaker coverage in some areas.

From lobby to observation deck

Using Cell Analytics data, we compared the 5G the average RSRP and RSRQ at two different height levels in each skyscraper: Bottom 10% of the building height, which represents coverage on the lower floors, based on samples collected closest to the ground floor, and Top 10% of the building height, which represents the highest levels, based on samples collected at the floors nearest to the top of the building.

“> chart of 5G signal strength and quality in select skyscrapers of the world, at bottom 10% and Top 10% of building height RSRP (dBm)
“> chart of 5G signal strength and quality in select skyscrapers of the world, at bottom 10% and Top 10% of building height RSRQ (dB)

Several skyscrapers showed minimal differences in 5G signal strength and quality between the lowest and highest floors. Burj Khalifa, One World Trade Center, Taipei 101, and the Empire State Building all had RSRP variations of 3 dBm or less between measurements taken at the bottom and top levels. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world at 828 meters, reported a slight improvement from -77.09 dBm at the lower floors to -76.30 dBm at the top.

Burj Khalifa, Taipei 101, and the Empire State Building also reported consistent 5G RSRQ between their lower and top floors, indicating stable 5G network quality. All four buildings have high-altitude observation decks, where strong 5G coverage is essential for tourists, businesses, and building operations.

In contrast, some skyscrapers exhibited noticeably larger differences between the lower and top floors RSRP and RSRQ, with weaker 5G signals at their higher levels. Petronas Twin Towers, Lotte World Tower, and Autograph Tower all showed a significant decline in signal strength as elevation increased. Petronas Twin Towers recorded a relatively strong -80.44 dBm at nearer to ground levels, but this dropped to -92.67 dBm at the top. This is mainly due to the lack of a dedicated indoor 5G coverage solution, with most 5G signals coming from outdoor cell towers. Similarly, the RSRP at Lotte World Tower fell from -71.14 dBm at the lower floors to -92.54 dBm for samples at the highest point. This suggests that while the lower sections of these buildings benefit from stronger 5G coverage, the network infrastructure at the upper floors may not be as robust.

Reliable 5G coverage in skyscrapers requires targeted network solutions

Skyscrapers play a key role in modern cities as business hubs, residential spaces, and major tourist attractions, making strong indoor 5G coverage essential. Tourists visiting observation decks, businesses operating in high-rise offices, and residents in skyscraper apartments all require seamless connectivity for work, communication, and entertainment. However, the primary challenge lies in delivering consistent performance and quality across various indoor settings, where issues may be confined to certain floors or sections. Modern building materials, such as low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, can significantly impact 5G signal attenuation by blocking or reflecting radio frequencies, especially in high-frequency bands like mmWave.

These challenges highlight the need for dedicated indoor solutions such as small cell deployments, distributed antenna systems (DAS), and enhanced in-building network infrastructure. An alternative to deploying in-building 5G systems is to selectively offload usage to Wi-Fi provided these systems are designed, optimized, and operated to deliver an equivalent quality of experience – this can be done using Ekahau.

As 5G continues to evolve, telecom providers and building developers must work together to improve indoor network quality, ensuring that users at all levels of a skyscraper experience fast, stable, and uninterrupted connectivity. For operators, 5G indoor deployments are a strategic avenue to monetize their investments through advances such as massive IoT (IoT), enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), and fixed wireless access (FWA), which will all play an important role in transformation across sectors such as industrial automation, retail applications, and smart cities.

Ookla can assist operators in identifying buildings or indoor venues with coverage or capacity issues using crowdsourced data and diagnosis. Powered by millions of signal measurements collected daily by Speedtest®, Cell Analytics provides intelligence about wireless service quality, RF measurements, data usage, user density, cell site locations, and much more. To find out more about Cell Analytics, please get in touch.

Ookla retains ownership of this article including all of the intellectual property rights, data, content graphs and analysis. This article may not be quoted, reproduced, distributed or published for any commercial purpose without prior consent. Members of the press and others using the findings in this article for non-commercial purposes are welcome to publicly share and link to report information with attribution to Ookla.

UAE
Global

About the Author

Affandy Johan

Ookla Research™ Articles
| December 24, 2024

5G Boosting Overall Performance Gains In Kazakhstan

Mobile operators in Kazakhstan have made significant progress in enhancing mobile network coverage and quality. Major operators are now focusing on expanding 5G services across the country. This article reviews the mobile performance and quality of experience of Beeline, KCell, and Tele2 at a national level in the first half of 2024. It also showcases their notable achievements in the key cities of Almaty, Astana, and Shymkent.

Key Takeaways

  • 5G networks in Kazakhstan delivered median download speeds -more than ten times faster than 4G. In the first half of 2024, 5G networks in Kazakhstan delivered median download speeds -more than ten times faster than 4G, with 5G achieving 332.11 Mbps compared to 4G’s 32.59 Mbps. Similarly, 5G median upload speeds were 2.6 times faster.
  • Tele2 topped performance in all technologies combined and 4G in the first half of 2024, while Kcell led in 5G download speed. Tele2 reported the highest median download speed across all technologies combined, at 55.12 Mbps, compared to Kcell’s 48.70 Mbps and Beeline’s 27.94 Mbps. Tele2’s 4G speed was 38.44 Mbps, surpassing Kcell’s 26.96 Mbps and Beeline’s 28.68 Mbps. For 5G, Kcell had the fastest median download speed at 347.80 Mbps, slightly ahead of Tele2’s 323.26 Mbps.
  • Tele2 delivered the best mobile video experience in Kazakhstan. In the first half of 2024, Tele2 achieved the highest Video Score of 69.79, outperforming Kcell (67.51) and Beeline (63.30). In mobile gaming performance, Tele2 and Kcell were nearly tied, with Tele2 slightly ahead, recording a Game Score of 73.49 compared to Kcell’s 73.08.

5G download speed is 10 times faster than 4G during first half 2024 in Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan’s mobile market is highly competitive, with the three main operators, Beeline, Kcell, and Tele2, driving much of the country’s telecommunications development, providing widespread mobile network coverage and achieving high penetration rates. The country was one of the first in Central Asia to commercially launch 5G, with Kcell and Tele2-Altel having been the primary drivers in the rollout of 5G technology within the market. Since early 2023, both operators have been actively deploying 5G base stations throughout the country’s major cities after being awarded the two 100 MHz blocks of spectrum in the 3.6 – 3.7 GHz and 3.7 – 3.8 GHz spectrum bands. As of June 2024, 1,144 base stations had been installed in 20 cities, as both operators continue to expand their 5G coverage across the country.

4G and 5G Performance, Kazakhstan
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

While the current 4G network in Kazakhstan may serve the daily connectivity needs of most mobile users, 5G technology offers a considerable performance uplift that can improve the user experience. When we compare 5G and 4G performance in Kazakhstan for the first half of 2024, the 5G median download speed of 332.11 Mbps was more than 10 times higher than the 4G median download speed of 32.59 Mbps. Similarly, the 5G median upload speed (32.26 Mbps) was 2.53 times faster than 4G’s upload speed of 12.61 Mbps during the same period.

Tele2 topped performance in all technologies combined and 4G, while Kcell led in 5G download speed

Based on Speedtest Intelligence® data in the first half of 2024, Tele2 led Kazakhstan’s mobile network performance across multiple categories, particularly in 4G and all technologies combined. During that period, Tele2 achieved the highest median download speed across all technologies combined, reaching 55.12 Mbps, surpassing Kcell’s 48.70 Mbps and Beeline’s 27.94 Mbps. Tele2 also led in median upload speed among the operators, with a speed of 17.16 Mbps, and maintained a competitive multi-server latency of 39 ms, indicating a responsive network experience.

Mobile Operators All Technologies Combined Network Performance, Kazakhstan
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

For 4G, Tele2 recorded a median download speed of 38.44 Mbps in the first half of 2024, outperforming Kcell’s 26.96 Mbps and Beeline’s 28.68 Mbps. Additionally, Tele2 led in 4G median upload speeds with 13.93 Mbps and achieved the lowest latency at 41.2 ms.

Mobile Operators 4G Network Performance, Kazakhstan
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Kazakhstan was one of the first countries in Central Asia to commercially launch 5G, with Kcell and Tele2-Altel being the primary drivers in the rollout of 5G technology within the market. Both operators were awarded the two 100 MHz spectrum blocks in the 3.6 – 3.7 GHz and 3.7 – 3.8 GHz spectrum bands in a 5G spectrum auction in December 2022. Beeline did not participate in the auction. The competitive dynamics between Tele2 and Kcell are instrumental in driving the country’s mobile network evolution, offering enhanced services to its consumers.

The data shows that for 5G, Kcell reported the fastest 5G median download speed at 347.80 Mbps, slightly ahead of Tele2’s 323.26 Mbps. Tele2 exhibited a better median upload speed of 33.56 Mbps compared to Kcell’s 29.30 Mbps. Both operators demonstrated comparable 5G latency, with Tele2 at 30.1 ms and Kcell at 31.2 ms.

Mobile Operators 5G Network Performance, Kazakhstan
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Almaty reported the fastest download speed for major cities

Mobile network performance varied across Kazakhstan’s three largest cities – Almaty, Astana, and Shymkent – with Almaty achieving the highest median download speed based on Speedtest Intelligence data from the first half of 2024. Almaty recorded a median download speed of 71.67 Mbps, significantly higher than Shymkent’s 56.25 Mbps and Astana’s 52.31 Mbps. Upload speeds in all three cities were relatively close, ranging from 17.28 Mbps in Shymkent to 17.90 Mbps in Astana. Latency was lowest in Almaty at 33 ms, followed by Astana at 34 ms, and Shymkent at 41 ms.

Mobile Network Performance In Kazakhstan's Major Cities
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Mobile performance differs among operators across the three major cities of Kazakhstan

Data from Speedtest Intelligence shows that the performance of mobile operators varied across the three major cities, with some providers performing better in specific locations. Overall, Kcell and Tele2 are strong competitors, while Beeline, which lacks a 5G network, fell behind in several key performance indicators.

Mobile Operators All Technologies Combined Network Performance, Major Cities in Kazakhstan
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Kcell topped median download speed In Shymkent, recording a speed of 133.57 Mbps, while Tele2 lagged behind with 83.94. In Almaty, both Kcell and Tele2 recorded almost similar performance levels, with Kcell reporting a median download speed of 104.38 Mbps, followed closely by Tele2 with 102.99 Mbps. Beeline’s download speeds were significantly lower in both cities, at 38.26 Mbps in Almaty and 25.62 Mbps in Shymkent.

For upload speeds, Tele2 led in both cities, reaching 20.04 Mbps in Almaty and 23.20 Mbps in Shymkent. Latency was low across both cities for Kcell and Tele2. In Almaty, both recorded 31 ms, compared to Beeline’s 35 ms. In Shymkent, Kcell reported 32 ms, Tele2 39 ms, and Beeline 47 ms.

In Astana, Tele2 outperformed its competitors, achieving a median download speed of 78.55 Mbps, while Kcell followed with 64.69 Mbps and Beeline recorded only 26.57 Mbps. Tele2 also led in upload speeds at 24.89 Mbps, ahead of Kcell’s 18.63 Mbps and Beeline’s 10.98 Mbps. Latency was lowest for Tele2 at 31 ms, with Kcell at 33 ms and Beeline at 37 ms.

Mobile Operators 4G Network Performance, Major Cities in Kazakhstan
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Tele2 delivered the highest 4G median download speeds in all three cities, with 46.59 Mbps in Almaty, 42.46 Mbps in Astana, and 44.57 Mbps in Shymkent. Beeline reported a download speed of 38.81 Mbps in Almaty, 26.69 Mbps in Astana and 25.92 Mbps in Shymkent. 

In terms of 4G median upload speeds, Beeline led in Almaty with 17.54 Mbps, while Tele2 delivered higher upload speeds in Astana and Shymkent, at 17.47 Mbps and 16.85 Mbps, respectively. Latency performance was relatively close among the operators in Almaty and Astana, while Kcell achieved the best latency in Shymkent at 33 ms.

Mobile Operators 5G Network Performance, Major Cities in Kazakhstan
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

In the first half of 2024, Kazakhstan’s 5G mobile providers—Kcell and Tele2— showed competitive 5G network performance results across Almaty, Astana, and Shymkent. In Almaty, Kcell reported a median download speed at 374.92 Mbps, slightly outperforming Tele2, which recorded 355.83 Mbps. Both operators performed similarly in upload speeds, with Tele2 at 27.02 Mbps and Kcell at 27.00 Mbps. Latency was nearly identical, with Tele2 reporting 26 ms and Kcell 27 ms.

In Astana, Tele2 led in both download and upload speeds. It achieved a median download speed of 226.89 Mbps, ahead of Kcell’s 159.03 Mbps, and recorded an upload speed of 35.95 Mbps, outperforming Kcell’s 22.17 Mbps. Latency was comparable, with Tele2 at 26 ms and Kcell at 28 ms.

Shymkent saw Tele2 record the highest download and upload speeds. Tele2 reported a download speed of 479.43 Mbps, while Kcell followed with 438.84 Mbps. In upload speeds, Tele2 led with 43.91 Mbps, compared to Kcell’s 32.55 Mbps. However, Kcell achieved lower latency in Shymkent at 28 ms, compared to Tele2’s 36 ms.

The deployment of 5G networks in Kazakhstan is still currently ongoing, with Kcell and Tele2 working on expanding 5G coverage in major cities. Tele2 has been proactive in expanding its 5G infrastructure, deploying base stations in 18 cities and exceeding the license obligations by the end of 2023.  Similarly, Kcell has partnered with Ericsson in a seven-year agreement to accelerate 5G deployment across key regions, including Almaty and Shymkent, aiming to cover at least 50% of Kazakhstan’s territory by 2030. These improvements not only cater to the growing demand for faster and more reliable services but also support emerging use cases such as mobile gaming, video streaming, and other data-intensive applications.

Tele2 edges the competition on mobile video and gaming quality of experience

While fast speeds are essential, providing good customer experience are also key indicators of network quality, especially when it comes to key use cases such as video streaming and mobile gaming. Speedtest Intelligence Quality of experience (QoE) measurements provide valuable insights into consumers’ real-life connectivity and quality of experience across various services like video streaming and mobile gaming. Ookla’s Speedtest Video Score™ and Game Score™ are unique measures to assess consumer video and gaming experience across different networks.

Video and Game Score, Kazakhstan
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Based on 1H 2024 data, Tele2 provided the best mobile video experience in Kazakhstan, recording a Video Score of 69.79, ahead of Kcell and Beeline, which reported a Video Score of 67.51 and 63.30 respectively. Tele2 reported a video adaptive start time, which measures the time spent waiting for the video to start playing in the adaptive bitrate stage of the test, of 0.98 seconds during the same period.

Kazakhstan’s mobile gaming market is experiencing significant growth, with projected revenues reaching $156 million in 2024, driven by the widespread adoption of smartphones, and Kazakhstan’s youthful and tech-savvy population facilitating greater access to mobile games. Tele2 and Kcell reported almost similar Game Score in the first half of 2024, with Tele2 having a small edge with a Game Score of 73.49, and followed closely by Kcell with a score of 73.08.

Kazakhstan’s mobile network landscape in the first half of 2024 highlights ongoing network improvements, particularly in the expansion of 5G networks by leading operators Kcell and Tele2. Additionally, regulatory support, such as the allocation of spectrum and national digitalization programs like “Digital Kazakhstan,” has created a favorable environment for the development of more advanced mobile networks. These efforts are expected to bridge the digital divide, boost economic productivity, and position Kazakhstan as a regional leader in digital transformation.

We will continue to monitor both 4G and 5G performance in Kazakhstan, see how operators scale networks, and assess real-world performance as more consumers connect with 5G devices. If you want to learn more, subscribe to Ookla Research™ to be the first to read our analyses.

Ookla retains ownership of this article including all of the intellectual property rights, data, content graphs and analysis. This article may not be quoted, reproduced, distributed or published for any commercial purpose without prior consent. Members of the press and others using the findings in this article for non-commercial purposes are welcome to publicly share and link to report information with attribution to Ookla.

About the Author

Affandy Johan

Ookla Research™ Articles
| December 13, 2024

Performance Benchmarking of Mobile Operators in Small to Mid-Sized Markets

As mobile connectivity demand grows, particularly in urban areas, network performance has become a crucial indicator of a country’s development, competitiveness, and quality of life. This report focuses on the performance of mobile networks in small to mid-sized markets, which strike a balance between fostering competition and allowing operators to concentrate on urban connectivity. Based on the selected criteria, the top-performing operators identified in this analysis come from nine countries: Bulgaria, Denmark, Finland, Hungary, Kuwait, Norway, Singapore, Switzerland, and the U.A.E.

Key Takeaways

  • Operators from the U.A.E. and Kuwait dominate the top five positions. Speedtest Intelligence® 1H 2024 data showed that U.A.E.’s e& led with a median download speed of 351.73 Mbps, followed by du at 264.41 Mbps. Kuwait’s Ooredoo (234.45 Mbps), Zain (218.06 Mbps), and stc (190.42 Mbps) rounded out the top five.
  • Early 5G adoption has been a key factor in driving improved network performance, with operators like e& (U.A.E.), du (U.A.E.), Ooredoo (Kuwait), and Zain (Kuwait) achieving globally competitive median download speeds since launching 5G in 2019. Speedtest Intelligence data highlights consistent growth in 5G Availability and 5G Service metrics over the past two years. For instance, Ooredoo (Kuwait) increased 5G Availability from 67.0% to 73.7% and 5G Service from 78.3% to 83.9%, while Telenor Norway improved 5G Availability from 40.4% to 55.9%, and YouSee (Denmark) reached 84.0%, showcasing the significant impact of 5G expansion on network performance.
  • The top-performing operators predominantly came from a select group of highly urbanized and economically developed countries. Only nine countries accounted for the top 20 mobile operators in small to mid-size markets. Notably, all operators in the top ten were from countries with urbanization rates exceeding 87%, highlighting the correlation between high urban density and network performance.

Understanding mobile performance in advanced small to mid-size markets

Mobile network performance is shaped by multiple factors, each impacting speed, reliability, and user experience. Spectrum availability, infrastructure density, and advanced technologies like 5G are essential for meeting user demand effectively. Additionally, geographic, economic, and regulatory factors influence the level of investment and an operator’s ability to deploy and optimize services. Large markets spanning vast regions pose unique logistical and technical challenges for operators trying to serve both densely populated cities and remote rural areas. In contrast, operators in smaller markets, such as city-states, focus on compact urban areas, requiring a more targeted and agile approach to network deployment.

For the purpose of this analysis, we defined small-to-mid sized markets as having populations between 4 million and 10 million.  The majority of the population is concentrated in high-density areas, allowing for a clearer examination of urban network strategies without the intricate infrastructure needs of large rural areas. There are 35 markets globally that fit this criteria, and of these, more than 65% occupy land areas smaller than 200,000 km². Using Speedtest Intelligence data, we examined the mobile performance in these markets during the first half of 2024, highlighting the top 20 ranked mobile providers based on median download speed.

Operators from the U.A.E. and Kuwait dominate the top ten rankings

Using Speedtest Intelligence® data collected in the first half of 2024, we ranked the top ten mobile operators in small to mid-size markets based on all mobile technologies combined. Operators from the United Arab Emirates and Kuwait dominate the top five positions, with a few operators from Denmark, Norway, and Singapore also making it into the top ten list. Notably, all operators in the top ten were from highly urbanized countries, with an urbanization rate exceeding 87%. These markets were also economically developed, having an average GDP per capita of just under USD 60,000.

Top 10 Ranked Operators Performance, Small to Medium Markets
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

U.A.E.’s e& (U.A.E) leads by a significant margin, achieving a median download speed of 351.73 Mbps for all technologies combined. This lead is indicative of the e&’s strong investment in telecommunication infrastructure and advanced network capabilities. Following e& is du, which has a median download speed of 264.41 Mbps. Both e& and du reported similar median upload speeds, with 26.58 Mbps and 26.25 Mbps respectively. The results underscore the U.A.E.’s robust telecommunications landscape, driven by strong competition among the leading operators.

Kuwait’s Ooredoo and Zain rank third and fourth with median download speeds of 234.45 Mbps and 218.06 Mbps, respectively. Another Kuwaiti operator, stc, completes the top five with a speed of 190.42 Mbps. The presence of three Kuwaiti operators in the top five highlights the country’s substantial progress in mobile network development, driven by a concentrated urban population and high levels of mobile broadband penetration. 

The dominance of operators from the Middle East, particularly the U.A.E. and Kuwait, in overall network performance highlights the significant investments and advancements in 5G infrastructure within the region. Our previous report examined how the U.A.E. was the fastest 5G market globally in 1H 2024, with a median download speed of 660.08 Mbps, with e& UAE leading both domestically and globally at 749.63 Mbps. In Kuwait, Zain topped 5G median download speed in the market with a speed of 411.06 Mbps, surpassing Ooredoo at 379.04 Mbps during the same period. These achievements underscore the region’s strategic focus on enhancing connectivity and setting benchmarks for global 5G performance. 

Northern Europe also has strong representation in the top ten, with Telenor (Norway) achieving 174.34 Mbps and three Danish operators (3, Telia, and YouSee) rounding out the list, all offering speeds above 148 Mbps. Singtel of Singapore is positioned in eighth place at 159.22 Mbps, indicative of Singapore’s efficient, urban-focused mobile deployment.

European operators were the most prominent beyond the top ten

11-20 Ranked Operators Performance, Small to Medium Markets
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

The next tier of mobile operators, ranked 11 to 20 by median download speed, offers a broader view of competitive performance across smaller European and Asian markets. Leading this group is A1 of Bulgaria, with a median download speed of 140.56 Mbps, placing it just below the top 10. Close behind Telenor (Denmark) and Telia (Norway), at 135.83 Mbps and 134.53 Mbps, respectively, highlight Northern Europe’s strong network performance capabilities, where dense urban populations and advanced network deployment have created solid foundations for high-speed connectivity.

Finnish operators make up a substantial part of this ranking, with DNA at 120.72 Mbps, Telia at 103.51 Mbps, and Elisa at 93.50 Mbps. The inclusion of the three Finnish operators in the list is notable, given the complex mix of population distribution and challenging coverage requirements of the market, which make consistently high speeds difficult across various geographies.

Other European operators, such as Swisscom in Switzerland, which had a speed of 117.29 Mbps, and Yettel in Hungary, with 94.58 Mbps, demonstrated that smaller, urbanized markets could still maintain competitive internet speeds. Singapore’s StarHub, with a speed of 100.46 Mbps, ranked 18th, highlighting the country’s strong mobile infrastructure.

Proactive 5G strategies contributing to overall performance gains among top operators

The majority of the operators in the top 20 list were early adopters of 5G technology, with most launching 5G services as early as 2019 or 2020. This early adoption has proven to be a factor in enhancing their overall network performance, allowing them to deliver faster speeds, greater reliability, and a better overall user experience compared to markets that lagged in 5G rollout.

Timeline of 5G Launch Among Top Operators in Small to Medium Markets

Operators such as e& (U.A.E.), du (U.A.E.), Ooredoo (Kuwait), and Zain (Kuwait) launched 5G services in 2019 and have consistently achieved higher median download speeds compared to other operators globally. In May 2019, etisalat by e& became the first operator in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to introduce 5G Non-Standalone (NSA) technology to subscribers. The U.A.E. and Kuwait have regularly ranked as the fastest operators in Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index, alongside other early 5G adopters like Qatar and South Korea.

Government support and operator investments have played a crucial role in driving 5G success in these markets. In the U.A.E., the telecom regulator TDRA waived fees for 5G frequencies above 3 GHz for five years, giving operators access to extensive spectrum resources in the 2500-2600 MHz and 3300-3800 MHz ranges. Similarly, Kuwait’s CITRA allocated additional spectrum in the 2.3 GHz and 2.6 GHz bands, enabling operators to enhance their 5G networks and prepare for the rollout of 5G-Advanced technology.

European operators, including Telenor (Norway), 3 (Denmark), and A1 (Bulgaria), as well as Singtel and StarHub in Singapore, have also leveraged early 5G implementation to enhance service quality. GSMA’s 5G Connectivity Index highlights that markets with proactive 5G strategies tend to outperform in network performance metrics. 

Leading operators demonstrate ongoing 5G adoption and coverage expansion

The overall performance gains are closely linked to the increased adoption of 5G services and the expansion of 5G coverage in key markets. As more users spend a larger share of their time on 5G networks, reliance on older technologies like 4G has steadily declined. This transition has contributed to faster speeds, lower latency, and overall improvements in mobile network performance for users across these top-performing operators.

5G Availability (%) Quarterly Trend
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | Q1 2023 – Q3 2024

5G Service (%) Quarterly Trend
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | Q1 2023 – Q3 2024

Top operators have continued to expand their 5G networks across their respective markets. Over the past 24 months, quarterly data has shown a consistent upward trend in both 5G Availability—the percentage of time users with 5G-capable devices spend connected to 5G—and 5G Service, which measures the percentage of geographical areas with reported 5G coverage. This dual growth demonstrates the operators’ commitment to improving both user experience and network reach.

e& (U.A.E.) and du (U.A.E.) have shown steady increases in 5G Availability. e& rose from 13.9% in Q2 2023 to 25.6% in Q3 2024, while du increased from 16.5% to 20.9% over the same period. 5G Service also improved, with e& expanding from 41.5% in Q2 2023 to 52.9% in Q3 2024, and du growing from 56.4% to 67.2%. 

Kuwaiti operators Ooredoo, Zain, and stc consistently maintained high levels of 5G Availability. Ooredoo increased from 67.0% in Q2 2023 to 73.7% in Q3 2024, while 5G Service also saw growth, with Ooredoo rising from 78.3% to 83.9% and Zain expanding from 81.1% to 90.6% during the same period. 

European operators also showed notable progress. Telenor Norway achieved significant growth in 5G Availability, rising from 40.4% to 55.9%. Denmark’s YouSee maintained one of the highest levels, increasing from 72.8% to 84.0%. In Finland, DNA and Telia demonstrated consistent improvements, with DNA rising from 52.6% to 71.6% and Telia making steady advancements as well. These trends reflect the continued expansion of 5G in both urban and outskirts, supporting increased 5G connectivity  across these markets.

Majority of the top operators’ 5G networks are utilizing C-band spectrum

Spectrum availability plays an important part in network performance, impacting speed and coverage. In urbanized small to mid-size markets, operators must strategically manage and, where possible, the ability to access adequate spectrum resources is crucial for reducing network congestion and maintaining a consistent, high-quality experience for users.

We analyzed the distribution of Speedtest data samples based on the primary reported 5G spectrum bands used by the top ten performing operators to gain insights into the spectrum bands utilized by operators. It’s important to note that operators will employ differing strategies to optimize spectrum utilization and the user experience. Consumer-initiated tests will attempt to saturate a network connection, and operators will tend to serve this capacity demand through the spectrum bands with the highest capacity and, where required, supplement this capacity through carrier aggregation. This gives a better indication of the maximum throughput and state of the network, in contrast with background idle-state testing, which will often camp on lower frequency bands and, more specifically, on 4G-LTE.

The results show that upper mid-band spectrum, or  C-Band (3.3-4.2 GHz), is the most widely utilized spectrum band among these operators, playing a critical role in balancing performance, availability, and coverage. The C-band offers an optimal balance between speed and coverage, making it suitable for urban and broader coverage areas.

Operators like e& (U.A.E.) and du (U.A.E.) rely heavily on the C-band, with 93.5% and 78.9% of test samples reported in this range, respectively. Similarly, operators in Kuwait, including Ooredoo, Zain, and stc, show a near-exclusive reliance on the C-band (ranging from 89.1% to 99.9%), enabling them to deliver widespread 5G availability and improved median download speeds.

In Nordic markets, operators like Telenor Norway and YouSee Denmark demonstrate more diverse spectrum strategies. Telenor Norway combines significant use of the C-band (62.4%) with a notable portion of low-band spectrum (37.4%), which enhances coverage in rural and less densely populated areas. This mixed approach allows these operators to ensure nationwide 5G rollout while maintaining urban performance. 

Top performing operators came from a few highly urbanized countries.

Our data shows that operators from only nine countries made up the top 20 mobile operators with the best median download speed within small to mid-size markets. Denmark had the highest representation, contributing four operators to the top 20 list. Kuwait and Finland follow closely, each with three operators ranked among the best. Other countries with top-performing operators include the U.A.E., Singapore, Norway, Bulgaria, Switzerland, and Hungary, each featuring one or two operators.

Top 20 Operators Countries
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024, World Population Review | 2023

These markets share several common characteristics that likely contribute to their high mobile network performance. Most are highly urbanized and economically developed, which facilitates the deployment of advanced telecommunications infrastructure.  Additionally, these countries often have high levels of investment in digital connectivity, enabling operators to maintain robust, high-speed networks. Many of these markets, such as Singapore, Switzerland, and Norway, are relatively compact, allowing operators to concentrate network resources and deliver consistent performance across their territories.

In contrast, markets with lower urbanization levels, such as Austria (59.5% urbanization) and Ireland (64.5% urbanization), despite sharing similar characteristics with the high-performing markets—such as strong economies and investments in telecommunications infrastructure—reported lower median download speeds of 79.46 Mbps and 38.20 Mbps, respectively. This highlights the need for tailored strategies in less urbanized markets to enhance coverage and optimize performance.

Ookla will continue to monitor overall mobile performance and 5G deployments globally and benchmark countries and operators. For more information about Speedtest Intelligence data and insights, please get in touch.

Ookla retains ownership of this article including all of the intellectual property rights, data, content graphs and analysis. This article may not be quoted, reproduced, distributed or published for any commercial purpose without prior consent. Members of the press and others using the findings in this article for non-commercial purposes are welcome to publicly share and link to report information with attribution to Ookla.

About the Author

Affandy Johan

Ookla Research™ Articles
| December 12, 2024

Evaluating Mobile Network Performance Across Developing Markets in Eurasia

Eurasia’s mobile telecommunications landscape reflects a transition region, balancing urban-focused growth with efforts to extend connectivity into rural areas. While urban centers in these countries see high 4G coverage and improving data speeds, rural areas often need to catch up, a gap that mirrors challenges in other developing regions of Asia and Central Europe.

Map of Select Eurasian Markets showing population numbers

This report benchmarks the performance of top mobile providers—those with a sample share of 3% or more—in seven neighboring markets. It compares the median download and upload speeds and latency across all technologies, focusing on national-level performance and results in the two major cities within each selected country.

1. Armenia

2. Azerbaijan

3. Georgia

4. Kazakhstan

5. Kyrgyzstan

6. Mongolia

7. Uzbekistan

Video start time measures the seconds a user waits for a video to begin during the adaptive bitrate stage. Adaptive start failure rate shows the percentage of video samples that fail to start playback due to timeouts or other issues in this stage. Together, these metrics provide insights into the video streaming experience for users across different operators in each market.

With video content making up a large portion of global network traffic, it’s essential to understand the actual experience of customers when they watch videos over mobile connections. This report assesses video performance using Speedtest Intelligence video metrics, focusing on two key indicators: video start time and adaptive start failure rate. 

Markets in Eurasia showing continued performance improvements

Speedtest Intelligence® quarterly data shows that the mobile median download and upload speeds for all technologies across all the selected markets, apart from Mongolia, have gradually improved between the period of Q4 2022 and Q3 2024.

Quarterly Performance Trend for Selected Eurasia Markets
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | Q3 2022 – Q3 2024
Quarterly Network Performance, Select Eurasian Markets

Markets that have introduced 5G saw or are in the early stages of 5G deployment saw overall improvements in both median download and upload speeds. Azerbaijan tops median download speed in Q3 2024, increasing from 34.82 Mbps in Q4 2022 to 55.62 Mbps in Q3 2024, driven by consistent network upgrades. Kazakhstan also demonstrates strong improvement, rising from 22.44 Mbps to 46.63 Mbps during the same period, maintaining steady growth in urban and rural connectivity, and the expansion of 5G services. Kazakhstan became one of the first countries in Central Asia to commercially launch 5G, with Kcell and Tele2 leading the deployment of 5G base stations. After securing 100 MHz blocks in the 3.6–3.7 GHz and 3.7–3.8 GHz spectrum bands, both operators have actively expanded their networks across the country’s major cities. By June 2024, they had installed 1,144 base stations across 20 cities, with ongoing efforts to extend 5G coverage further.

Uzbekistan also showed notable progress, starting at 14.67 Mbps in Q4 2022 and reaching 38.96 Mbps by Q3 2024, reflecting increased investments in mobile infrastructure and early-stage 5G deployment by the operators. In Uzbekistan, the government and operators have made significant strides in enhancing mobile network performance. The Republican Telecommunications Management Center of Uzbekistan (RTMC), through its “Digital Uzbekistan 2030” initiative, has focused on improving digital connectivity nationwide. Alongside these efforts, operators have begun rolling out 5G networks, collectively driving progress in the country’s telecom sector and boosting overall network performance.

In contrast, Mongolia showed limited improvement in network performance, with median download speeds remaining around 17 Mbps over the same period. Despite a steady rise in 4G connections, increasing from 35.4% in Q4 2022 to 54.1% in Q3 2024 (GSMA Intelligence), the market continues to face challenges. As the least densely populated country in the world, with a significant portion of the population living a nomadic lifestyle, challenges include limited infrastructure investment and high network congestion in the main cities, which have hindered its growth compared to other countries in the region.

Overall, the improvement in performance across the region reflects ongoing investments in mobile networks, driven by rising consumer demand for faster internet and government efforts to expand connectivity. As operators deploy advanced technologies, including 5G rollouts in some markets, mobile performance is expected to continue improving, narrowing the performance gap with more developed regions.

Armenia

In Armenia, the primary mobile operators are Viva-MTS, Beeline, and Ucom. All three operators offer 4G coverage across major cities, with efforts underway through Armenia’s Public Services Regulatory Commission (PSRC) to expand 4G coverage of the three existing operators in 80% of the settlements within the next two years. Viva-MTS, the market leader, has made investments in network upgrades, focusing on increasing capacity in urban regions to address data traffic demand. Ucom has prioritized the modernization of its network to improve end-user performance and service availability, while at the same time introducing 5G services in selected cities.

Based on data from Speedtest Intelligence® during the first half of 2024, Viva-MTS and Ucom both recorded median download speeds that are nearly identical, each just above 34 Mbps. Viva-MTS also outpaced its rivals in upload speeds, achieving 14.77 Mbps, followed by Ucom at 12.14 Mbps and Telecom Armenia at 11.95 Mbps.

All Technologies Network Performance, Armenia
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

When it comes to video quality of experience, Speedtest Intelligence reveals that Ucom had the fastest median adaptive start time for all mobile technologies combined in Armenia, at 1.38 seconds during 1H 2024, followed by Telecom Armenia CJSC at 1.55 seconds. Furthermore, Ucom reported a video start failure rate of just 2.9%, while Telecom Armenia CJSC and Viva-MTS experienced higher failure rates of 5.8% and 7.7%, respectively.

Video Experience By Mobile Operator, Armenia
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

In Armenia’s main cities, Yerevan and Gyumri, Ucom leads in download speed, achieving the highest median download speed of 52.13 Mbps in Gyumri and 38.18 Mbps in the capital, Yerevan. Viva-MTS follows closely with 44.87 Mbps in Gyumri and 35.5 Mbps in Yerevan, while Telecom Armenia CJSC significantly lags behind in both cities, recording 25.74 Mbps in Gyumri and 21.11 Mbps in Yerevan.

For upload speeds, Viva-MTS leads in both cities, reaching 15.87 Mbps in Gyumri and 15.82 Mbps in Yerevan. Ucom performs slightly lower, with 12.63 Mbps in Gyumri and 14.65 Mbps in Yerevan, while Telecom.

All Technologies Mobile Operator's Performance In Major Cities, Armenia
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan’s mobile market is primarily served by three operators: Azercell, Bakcell, and Nar. Azercell, the largest operator, has actively expanded its 4G network, achieving a population coverage of 98.35% in urban and suburban areas. All three operators have initiated 5G services, with Azercell launching a 5G pilot zone in Baku’s Fountain Square, Bakcell introducing 5G trials in select locations, and Nar deploying 5G technology in Sumgait, marking the first 5G launch outside the capital. 

Bakcell leads in both median download and upload speeds during the first half of 2024, achieving 55.36 Mbps for downloads and 18.68 Mbps for uploads. Azercell follows with a download speed of 50.65 Mbps and an upload speed of 11.46 Mbps, while Nar lagged behind at 42.23 Mbps for downloads but performs comparatively better in uploads with 13.96 Mbps.

All Technologies Network Performance, Azerbaijan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

When it comes to video quality of experience, Speedtest Intelligence reveals that Bakcell provided the most reliable and fastest video streaming experience among the three operators. In terms of video adaptive start performance, Bakcell and Azercell show relatively similar adaptive start times, with 1.26 and 1.27 seconds, respectively, while Nar has a slightly slower start time at 1.35 seconds. 

Bakcell had the lowest video adaptive start failure rate at 3.7%, followed by Nar at 4.0%. Azercell showed the highest failure rate at 7.0%, suggesting that videos failed to start more often for its users compared to its competitors.

Video Experience By Mobile Operator, Azerbaijan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

In the capital city of Baku, Bakcell leads with a median download speed of 66.62 Mbps, outperforming Azercell’s download speed of 59.51 Mbps. In Ganja, Azercell slightly outperforms Bakcell in download speed at 53.24 Mbps compared to Bakcell’s 50.16 Mbps.

All Technologies Mobile Operator's Performance In Major Cities, Azerbaijan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Georgia

In Georgia, Magti, Geocell (Silknet), and Cellfie (formerly Beeline) are the primary mobile network operators, driving competition in the telecom market. The market has been shaped by ongoing investments in network upgrades and a push towards next-generation connectivity. Data from Speedtest Intelligence® for the first half of 2024 highlights Geocell as the leader in median download speed, achieving a download speed of 50.20 Mbps. Magti followed with a median download speed of 40.50 Mbps and upload speed of 15.12 Mbps, maintaining a competitive position. Geocell also outperformed other operators in latency, recording the lowest median multi-server latency of 38 milliseconds, compared to Magti’s 40 ms.

Cellfie, formerly Beeline, lagged in both speed and latency metrics. However, its focus on network modernization and the targeted 5G rollouts may provide opportunities for improvement. The company has emphasized plans to enhance its infrastructure and leverage the benefits of 5G, which could help bridge the gap with its competitors.

All Technologies Network Performance, Georgia
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Magti reported the fastest video adaptive start time at 1.50 seconds, followed by Geocell at 1.75 seconds and Cellfie (formerly Beeline) at 2.02 seconds. Geocell achieved better reliability with the lowest video start failure rate of 3.1%, while Magti and Cellfie experienced higher failure rates of 5.1% and 6.1%, respectively. 

With 5G rollouts advancing in 2024, operators will look at leveraging higher bandwidth and lower latency to enhance user experiences and support the increasing use of video services in Georgia.

Video Experience By Mobile Operator, Georgia
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

In the capital city of Tbilisi, Geocell achieved a median download speed of 57.5 Mbps, surpassing Magti’s 37.92 Mbps and Cellfie’s 25.11 Mbps. Both Geocell and Magti recorded almost similar upload speeds in the capital, at around 19 Mbps. In Batumi, Magti led with a median download speed of 33.08 Mbps, while Geocell followed at 23.31 Mbps.

All Technologies Mobile Operator's Performance In Major Cities, Georgia
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Kazakhstan

Kazakhstan’s mobile market is highly competitive, with the three main operators, Beeline, Kcell, and Tele2, driving much of the country’s telecommunications development, providing widespread mobile network coverage and achieving high penetration rates. The country was one of the first in Central Asia to commercially launch 5G, with Kcell and Tele2-Altel having been the primary drivers in the rollout of 5G technology within the market.

Tele2 was the fastest mobile provider in Kazakhstan, based on Speedtest Intelligence® data for all technologies combined during 1H2024, with a median download speed of 55.12 Mbps. Kcell followed with 48.70 Mbps, while Beeline lagged at 27.94 Mbps. Tele2 recorded a median upload speed of 17.16 Mbps and a latency of 39 ms.

All Technologies Network Performance, Kazakhstan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

When it comes to video quality of experience, Speedtest Intelligence reveals that Tele2 had the fastest median adaptive start time for all mobile technologies combined in Kazakhstan, at 2.03 seconds during 1H 2024. Kcell was close behind at 2.09 seconds. 

Video Experience By Mobile Operator, Kazakhstan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

In Astana, Tele2 demonstrated strong overall performance, leading in all three key metrics: a median download speed of 78.55 Mbps, upload speed of 24.89 Mbps, and multi-server latency of 31 ms. In Almaty, KCell had a slight edge in median download speed at 104.38 Mbps, closely followed by Tele2 at 102.99 Mbps, highlighting competitive performance between the two operators in the city. Beeline, which currently lacks 5G services, reported lower download speeds of 26.57 Mbps in Astana and 38.26 Mbps in Almaty.

All Technologies Mobile Operator's Performance In Major Cities, Kazakhstan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan’s mobile telecommunications market is served by three main operators: MEGA, O!, and Beeline. The country’s mobile landscape reflects its geographic challenges, with mountainous terrain making rural connectivity a significant hurdle. Despite this, government support has enabled gradual progress. The State Communications Agency, which regulates the telecom sector, has actively worked on policies to encourage network investment and  bridging the urban-rural connectivity gap. The National Development Strategy of the Kyrgyz Republic 2018-2040 is one initiative that facilitates digital transformation to hasten the country’s economic development. Overall, Kyrgyzstan’s mobile network landscape shows steady growth, with operators competing on both speed and coverage.

Beeline edged the other operators in median download speed in Kyrgyzstan during the first half of 2024, achieving a median download speed of 34.99 Mbps, slightly  ahead of O! 33.18 Mbps, and MEGA at 30.29 Mbps. 

All Technologies Network Performance, Kyrgyzstan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

O! provided the best video experience in 1H 2024 among all the operators in the market, with median adaptive start time for all mobile technologies combined at 2.17 seconds and lowest adaptive start failure rate of 2.5%. O! was followed by Beeline with an adaptive start time of 2.48 seconds and MEGA with 2.64 seconds.

Video Experience By Mobile Operator, Kyrgyzstan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

In Kyrgyzstan’s main cities of Bishkek and Osh, Beeline reported a median download speed of 44.44 Mbps in Bishkek and 31.49 Mbps in Osh, a slight edge over both MEGA and O!. MEGA, however, led in upload speeds in Osh, with a speed of 18.3 Mbps.

All Technologies Mobile Operator's Performance In Major Cities, Kyrgyzstan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Mongolia

There are five top operators in Mongolia; MobiCom, GMobile, Supernet, Unitel and Skytel, each aiming to expand 4G LTE coverage to meet the growing demand for mobile internet. The country’s challenging geography and low population density create barriers for network expansion, especially in rural areas, making urban-focused network performance crucial for operators.

Based on Speedtest Intelligence® data for all technologies combined during 1H2024, MobiCom leads with a median download speed at 17.92 Mbps, followed by GMobile at 15.33 Mbps, and SuperNet closely behind at 15.07 Mbps. MobiCom also led upload speeds, with 11.81 Mbps, ahead of Unitel and GMobile. When it comes to latency, GMobile and Skytel provide the lowest median latency at 42 ms and 43 ms.

All Technologies Network Performance, Mongolia
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

MobiCom reported the fastest video adaptive start time at 1.74 seconds, followed by Unitel at 1.87 seconds and SuperNet) at 2.28 seconds. gmobile achieved better reliability with the lowest video start failure rate of 2.2%, followed by Unitel and Skytel, with failure rates of 4.5% and 7.7%, respectively.

Video Experience By Mobile Operator, Mongolia
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

In the city of Erdenet, SuperNet leads with a substantial margin, achieving a median download speed of 35.69 Mbps. MobiCom follows with 16.24 Mbps, while other operators like GMobile (10.99 Mbps), Unitel (10.86 Mbps), and Skytel (13.26 Mbps) lag behind, indicating a considerable disparity in download performance across providers in this city. 

In Ulaanbaatar, the capital and most populous city, MobiCom shows the highest median download speed at 18.78 Mbps, followed by Unitel at 15.03 Mbps and GMobile at 13.87 Mbps. Skytel records the lowest performance in Ulaanbaatar with just 8.12 Mbps.

All Technologies Mobile Operator's Performance In Major Cities, Mongolia
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan has increased investments in mobile network infrastructure, supported by government incentives and growing competition among operators. In 2020, the country introduced the “Digital Uzbekistan 2030” strategy to accelerate digital transformation across industries. The Republican Telecommunications Management Center (RTMC), which oversees this initiative, has worked closely with operators to expand telecommunications infrastructure, improve service quality, and reduce the urban-rural connectivity gap. 

Uzbekistan’s mobile market is served by four major operators; Ucell, Uztelecom, Beeline Uzbekistan, and Mobiuz, with Ucell being the largest operator. Based on data from Speedtest Intelligence® during the first half of 2024, Ucell achieved the fastest median mobile download speed across all of the operators with a speed of 43.91 Mbps, followed by Uztelecom at 27.30 Mbps. Mobiuz followed closely with a reported speed of 26.79 Mbps. 

All Technologies Network Performance, Uzbekistan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

When it comes to video quality of experience, Speedtest Intelligence reveals that Beeline had the fastest median adaptive start time for all mobile technologies combined in Uzbekistan, at 1.8 seconds during 1H 2024, followed by Uztelecom at 1.99 seconds, and UCell at 2.12 seconds. Furthermore, Beeline reported a video start failure rate of 3.5%, while Uztelecom and Mobiuz experienced higher failure rates of 4.6% and 4.8%, respectively.

Video Experience By Mobile Operator, Uzbekistan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

In Uzbekistan’s two main cities, Samarkand and Tashkent, UCell led in median download speeds, achieving 83.12 Mbps in Samarkand and 83.36 Mbps in Tashkent. Uztelecom leads upload speed in Samarkand at 20.14 Mbps, while UCell ranks highest in Tashkent at 19.61 Mbps. UCell has the lowest latency in both cities, with 36 ms in Samarkand and 22 ms in Tashkent.

All Technologies Mobile Operator's Performance In Major Cities, Uzbekistan
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

The mobile telecommunications landscape across Eurasia, particularly in Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, and Uzbekistan, reveals varied network performance driven by differing levels of infrastructure investment, urban density, and regulatory initiatives.

Many operators in these countries face challenges, especially in rural and high-density urban areas where network congestion and limited infrastructure investment impact user experience. To address these gaps, several Eurasian governments are introducing policies to support 5G deployment, rural network expansion, and spectrum allocation, aiming to bridge connectivity disparities and support a growing digital economy. As these markets move towards 5G, continued regulatory support and investment in network infrastructure will be crucial to elevate service quality across the region, meeting the rising demand for fast and reliable mobile connectivity.

As operators in this region continue to modernize their networks, we are keeping a close eye on how the network deployments are progressing and the network performance end users experience. For more information about Speedtest Intelligence data and insights, please contact us.

Ookla retains ownership of this article including all of the intellectual property rights, data, content graphs and analysis. This article may not be quoted, reproduced, distributed or published for any commercial purpose without prior consent. Members of the press and others using the findings in this article for non-commercial purposes are welcome to publicly share and link to report information with attribution to Ookla.

About the Author

Affandy Johan

Ookla Research™ Articles
| October 13, 2024

South Korea Leads Mobile Game Score in East Asia as 5G Drives Improved Mobile Gaming Experience

Hong Kong

As 5G networks continue their rapid proliferation across Asia Pacific, it is poised to transform mobile gaming. It has brought faster downloads, smoother gameplay, and more immersive experiences with its fast speeds and minimal lag. This article examines the impact of 5G on mobile gaming experience in the region, in particular within selected East Asia markets.

Key Takeaways

  • South Korea led the Game Score™ in East Asia with 90.06 out of 100 during 1H 2024, followed by China with 85.64 and Japan with a score of 81.85. South Korea also recorded the lowest gaming latency across all technologies in the region, with a median latency of 55 ms, outperforming neighboring markets.
  • 5G addressed the latency and bandwidth challenges of 4G networks for mobile gaming by providing significantly higher bandwidth and speed. In 1H 2024, 5G download speeds were, on average, 4.91 times faster than 4G across East Asia, with South Korean users experiencing 8.45 times improvement over 4G. Latency also improved compared to 4G  across all markets, with South Korea leading the region with a reported latency of 51 ms. 
  • South Korean operators topped East Asia’s 5G Game Score rankings, with all three major carriers achieving scores above 90. LG U+ provided the best gaming experience with a 5G Game Score of 92.56 and a median latency of 49 ms, closely followed by SK Telecom and KT. China Unicom led the Chinese market with a score of 88.73, while Softbank was the top performer in Japan with a score of 87.31. All top operators across East Asia reported strong gaming performance on 5G, with scores over 80.

Asia Pacific at the forefront of global gaming market growth

The global games market, encompassing both mobile and other platforms, generated over $184 billion in revenue in 2023, a year-on-year growth of 0.6%. Notably, the Asia Pacific region continues to lead the gaming sector, contributing a remarkable $84.1 billion to this total. This dominance not only reflects the region’s vibrant gaming culture but also emphasizes its pivotal role in driving the industry’s overall growth. Mobile gaming, in particular, has solidified its position as a dominant force within this market, capturing a significant 49% share and generating approximately $90 billion in revenue in 2023. This surge underscores a fundamental shift in consumer preferences, as gamers increasingly favor mobile devices for their gaming experiences.

Growth in mobile gaming is further fueled by strategic initiatives from governments and mobile operators in various markets, particularly within East Asia. These stakeholders are actively promoting mobile gaming through supportive policies and enhanced connectivity, fostering an environment ripe for innovation and engagement. As a result, East Asia is well-positioned to continue leading the global gaming market in the years to come.

China, as one of the largest gaming markets, is actively supported by government agencies and telecom operators in promoting mobile gaming. The recent lift of the regulatory freeze on approving new games is significantly propelling the growth of the gaming industry, with major players such as Tencent and NetEase leading the way in driving innovation in mobile gaming.

South Korea is another leading nation in the mobile gaming industry, supported by strong government involvement. The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has long been sponsoring esports and gaming tournaments like the World Cyber Olympics. The recent initiatives include building infrastructure like the esports stadium in Pangyo, and companies like Netmarble and Nexon dominate the market with government-backed initiatives for global gaming expansion.

In Japan, the government has been actively promoting the gaming industry, including mobile gaming, by providing tax incentives and creating an ecosystem that fosters innovation and esports. Japan’s mobile operators, such as NTT Docomo and SoftBank, have partnered with game developers to enhance cloud gaming experiences, offering services like 5G gaming platforms to ensure smooth, high-speed gaming on mobile devices. 

In Hong Kong, the government has focused on transforming the city into a regional hub for esports and gaming technology. Various public-private partnerships are in place to host major gaming tournaments, elevating Hong Kong’s profile in the regional gaming scene. Similarly in Taiwan, the government is supporting mobile gaming through initiatives focused on the development of esports. The Ministry of Digital Affairs has introduced policies to encourage indie game developers to enter the esports arena, positioning Taiwan as a competitive player in the region’s mobile gaming and esports market.

South Korea leads East Asia in Game Score and has the lowest latency

A smooth mobile gaming experience relies on stable and fast mobile data connections. With real-time multiplayer games becoming the norm, low latency and minimal lag are essential for uninterrupted gameplay. High-speed mobile data ensures quick responses to in-game actions, reducing delays and enhancing immersion, which helps players stay competitive and enjoy a seamless gaming experience.

Our Speedtest Game Score™ is a unique measure to assess consumer gaming experience across different networks. The score takes into account different aspects of a consumer’s gaming experience based on multiple network key performance indicators. Game Score is based on Ookla’s consumer-initiated Speedtest results for download and upload speeds, as well as Consumer QoE’s™ latency and jitter measurements taken to real-world game servers. Each of these components is evaluated and scored on a scale of 0-100,  and are then combined in a weighted average to produce a Game Score. A higher score signifies a better gaming experience for the user.

Overall Game Score™ in Selected East Asia Markets
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Across the East Asia markets, South Korea had the highest Game Scores across all mobile technologies during the first half of 2024 in APAC with a score of 90.06 on a 100-point scale. This is not surprising as South Korea consistently tops Ookla’s Speedtest Global Index mobile performance ranking for Asia Pacific markets. South Korea was followed by China with a score of 85.64 and Japan with a score of 81.85. 

South Korea also stands out with the lowest gaming latency across all technologies compared to the neighboring markets in East Asia. In 1H 2024, South Korea reported a median gaming latency of 55 ms, significantly outperforming the other markets. Japan follows with a median latency of 68 ms, still offering a smooth gaming experience. Meanwhile, China, Taiwan, and Hong Kong show higher latencies of 85 ms, 84 ms, and 87 ms, respectively. These higher latencies suggest potential delays and less fluid gameplay compared to South Korea and Japan. 

5G driving enhanced mobile gaming experience 

The limitations of previous generation mobile networks, particularly in terms of latency and bandwidth, have restricted the full potential of mobile games. 5G has overcome these challenges by offering significantly higher bandwidth and speed than 4G. This advancement enables faster downloads and updates for games, along with smooth streaming of high-quality content. It’s especially beneficial for cloud gaming, especially cloud-based AAA games played on mobile devices, which demand substantial data for a lag-free experience. 

Game Latency, the delay before data transfer starts, is key for gaming. Lower latency equals faster reactions in-game, and 5G’s ultra-low latency removes lag in online games, making gameplay smooth and responsive. Speedtest data shows that for the markets in East Asia, all reported improved latency on 5G compared to 4G, and all markets had latency of below 80 ms during the first half of 2024. South Korea reported the lowest latency on 5G at 51 ms, followed by Japan with 65 ms. Hong Kong and China saw gaming latency improvements of 15 ms on 5G, resulting in latencies of 73 ms and 79 ms, respectively. Enhancements in 5G infrastructure and connecting to a server within a gamer’s own region can enhance overall gaming latency.

Mobile Gaming Performance in Selected East Asia Markets
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

While download speed requirements for online mobile gaming vary depending on the game type, faster download speeds ensure smoother gameplay, faster matchmaking, and reduced wait times for content. Several factors influence download speed, including the quality of the mobile network, network congestion, signal strength, and the device’s processing power. A stable and fast connection allows for an optimal gaming experience, minimizing delays and disruptions.

Speedtest Intelligence data from 1H 2024 shows a significant improvement in overall performance when comparing 4G and 5G networks in selected East Asia markets. The median download speed in these markets was, on average, five times faster than the median download speeds of 4G. South Korean mobile users experienced the most significant increase in download performance, with 5G median download speeds reported to be eight times faster than 4G, increasing from 61.11 Mbps to 524.99 Mbps. Taiwan and China both reported median download speeds of more than 200 Mbps and around five times performance improvement, at 265.21 Mbps and 226.93 Mbps, respectively.

Upload speed also plays an essential role in creating a smooth gaming experience without interruptions or quality degradation, particularly in multiplayer games. Across all markets, there is a significant increase in upload speeds with 5G compared to 4G. Notably, South Korea has the largest improvement in upload speeds between 4G and 5G, with 5G offering almost four times higher upload performance. This means that gamers in South Korea could experience the most substantial improvement in gameplay and streaming quality when transitioning from 4G to 5G. In other markets, the switch to 5G resulted in at least a twofold improvement in upload speeds compared to 4G.

South Korean operators top gaming experience in the region

A global leader in 5G adoption, South Korea boasts a thriving mobile gaming industry. With 5G, the country has witnessed a surge in the popularity of esports and cloud gaming services. The Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has long been sponsoring esports and gaming tournaments like the World Cyber Olympics. Other initiatives include building infrastructure like the esports stadium in Pangyo. Of all the top operators in the markets in East Asia, South Korean operators sit at the top for 5G Game Score in 1H 2024, with all three major operators reported Game Score of above 90.

Top Operators 5G Game Score
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

LG U+ provided the best 5G gaming experience in 1H 2024 among all the operators in the market, with a 5G Game Score of 92.56 and a median game latency to key gaming server locations of 49 ms. LG U+ was closely followed by SK Telecom with a 5G Game Score of 92.33 and KT with 90.98.

China Unicom was top for operators from China, the world’s largest mobile gaming market, with a Game Score of 88.73. Softbank leads in terms of 5G Game Score among all the top operators from Japan with a score of 87.31. Overall all the top operators in East Asia reported very good Game Score results, with scores above 80.

5G as a catalyst for cloud gaming services

One of the most significant advancements in mobile gaming is cloud gaming, where games are streamed directly from the cloud, removing the need for high-end hardware. This technology allows gamers to play cutting-edge titles on handheld devices without being bound by hardware limitations, making it possible to experience seamless gaming both indoors and on the go. 

The rollout of 5G networks in East Asia has been a game-changer for cloud gaming. Ericsson’s research shows that two-thirds of gamers rely primarily on mobile networks (4G/5G) or Wi-Fi for cloud gaming, with the most common setup being a smartphone connected via a mobile network. The faster speeds, lower latency, and greater bandwidth offered by 5G are essential to delivering the smooth, responsive experiences cloud gaming demands, placing higher requirements on network operators to ensure consistent quality of service (QoS). 

For the mobile operators in East Asia, the strategy is to use cloud gaming to attract more 5G subscribers. In Hong Kong, CSL partnered with Blacknut, a premium game streaming platform, to provide access to over 500 cloud-based games across multiple devices for a monthly fee. South Korea has also been a leader in cloud gaming, with LG U+ offering GeForce Now, which enables users to stream games directly from servers, and SK Telecom launching SKT 5GX Cloud Game in collaboration with Microsoft, offering a robust library of games via the cloud since 2020.

Tencent, one of the world’s largest gaming companies, partnered with China Unicom to integrate START, a cloud gaming platform designed to deliver high-quality gaming experiences without the need for high-performance devices. This initiative is part of China’s push for 5G and cloud gaming, providing gamers with smooth and immersive gaming experiences through ultra-fast mobile connections.

These initiatives highlight the growing synergy between telecom operators and gaming companies in East Asia. As 5G continues to expand, cloud gaming is poised to become more accessible and reliable, enabling millions of gamers across the region to enjoy high-quality gaming experiences without the need for expensive hardware. This evolution not only enhances the gaming landscape but also drives the demand for robust, high-performance mobile networks, ensuring that 5G will continue to play a central role in the future of cloud gaming.

We will continue to monitor mobile gaming performance across Asia Pacific. For more information about Speedtest Intelligence data and insights, please contact us.

Ookla retains ownership of this article including all of the intellectual property rights, data, content graphs and analysis. This article may not be quoted, reproduced, distributed or published for any commercial purpose without prior consent. Members of the press and others using the findings in this article for non-commercial purposes are welcome to publicly share and link to report information with attribution to Ookla.

Hong Kong

About the Author

Affandy Johan

Ookla Research™ Articles
| September 3, 2024

Asia-Pacific Subscribers Will Benefit from More 5G Mid-band Spectrum

Spectrum

In the dynamic landscape of 5G deployment across the Asia-Pacific region, the strategic selection of spectrum frequency bands plays a pivotal role. The mid-band range, notably C-band (3.3-4.2 GHz), stands out as a key enabler, offering the ideal balance of broad coverage and high capacity. In this article, we use Ookla Speedtest Intelligence® data to highlight the relationship between spectrum bands and network performance.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Mid-band is important for unlocking the full potential of 5G. The mid-band spectrum offers a balance of speed and range and is the preferred choice for most 5G deployments globally. Speedtest Intelligence® showed that C-band was present in 62.1% of global Speedtest consumer-initiated 5G samples in the first half of 2024.
  • Markets with a higher proportion of included C-band samples experienced faster 5G speeds. Global Speedtest Intelligence samples that included C-band were 1.7 times faster than lower mid-band spectrum and 4.27 times faster than sub-1-GHz low-band based on 1H 2024 data. Data also indicates that for markets with a higher reported proportion of included C-band samples typically experienced faster 5G speeds and improved overall network performance.
  • Operators face the challenge of balancing the need for broad 5G coverage with the desire for better performance. Some APAC markets experienced a decline in speed as 5G services and availability have increased. Malaysia, with its unique single-wholesale 5G network, showed declining 5G median download speeds, falling from 506.96 Mbps in Q2 2023 to 387.39 Mbps in Q2 2024, as 5G Service increased from 9.4% in Q2 2023 to 26.5% in Q2 2024. Thailand, on the other hand, achieved a 5G Service of 65.4% in Q2 2024, but reported a lower 5G median download speed of 135.30 Mbps due to the lack of C-band allocations.

Mid-band spectrum dominates 5G deployments

In our previous report on spectrum and performance, we discussed how the effectiveness of 5G networks depends on the strategic use of spectrum bands. Regulators allocate spectrum for 5G networks across three ranges: low-band (sub-1GHz), mid-band spectrum (frequencies between 1 GHz and 6 GHz), and high-band or mmWave spectrum (24 GHz and above), each with unique characteristics and capabilities. An operator’s spectrum holdings play a crucial role in determining its 5G deployment strategy and the range of services and experiences it can offer.

Mid-band spectrum occupies a strategic position in the 5G landscape, offering a blend of range and speed that is critical for realizing the full potential of 5G networks. It occupies a middle ground between the extensive reach of low-band spectrum and the high-speed but limited-range capabilities of high-band or mmWave spectrum, making it a crucial enabler of high-speed connectivity and low latency. , offering a blend of range and speed that is critical for realizing the full potential of 5G networks. It occupies a middle ground between the extensive reach of low-band spectrum and the high-speed but limited-range capabilities of high-band or mmWave spectrum, making it a crucial enabler of high-speed connectivity and low latency. 

Global Breakdown of Spectrum Bands Used in 5G Deployments (%)
GSMA | Q1 2024

Due to mid-band’s ability to balance coverage and performance, it is the preferred choice in 5G deployment. According to GSMA Intelligence’s Spectrum Navigator, out of the 295 operators that have launched commercial 5G networks globally, as of the end of Q1 2024, 72% utilized mid-band spectrum. 

Within the mid-band spectrum, the C-band spectrum, which includes n77 (3,300–4,200MHz), n78 (3,300–3,800MHz), and n79 (4,500MHz), has emerged as the de facto standard for 5G deployment. GSMA Intelligence reported that 186 out of 295 operators worldwide (63%) use bands n77 or n78 for their 5G network, showing a clear preference for the C-band spectrum. Additionally, Speedtest Intelligence® data from the first half of 2024 revealed that C-band was present in 62.1% of global Speedtest consumer-initiated 5G samples where spectrum information is available.

Proportion of Included Spectrum Band (%)
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

APAC region mirrors the global trend of prioritizing mid-band spectrum for 5G deployment

We analyzed 5G networks in selected Asia Pacific (APAC) and top-performing markets from the Gulf region using Speedtest data from the first half of 2024 to gain insights into the spectrum bands utilized by operators. It’s important to note that operators will employ differing strategies in order to optimize spectrum utilization and the user experience. Consumer-initiated Speedtest samples will attempt to saturate a network connection, and operators will tend to serve this capacity demand through the spectrum bands with the highest capacity, and where required supplement this capacity through carrier aggregation. This active testing gives a better indication of the maximum throughput and state of the network, in contrast with background idle-state testing, which will often camp on lower frequency bands and more specifically on 4G-LTE. For many of these selected markets, it is evident that the mid-band spectrum is the cornerstone of 5G deployments, reported in 81.5% of user samples with spectrum information. Within the mid-band, 73.1% of total test samples included C-band.

Chart of Spectrum Band Distribution Based on Primary Reported Band

Speedtest Intelligence reveals a strong preference for C-band in certain APAC markets. For instance, in South Korea, New Zealand, and Malaysia, the recorded 5G test samples were exclusively reported on the C-band spectrum.

South Korean and New Zealand operators have successfully deployed nationwide 5G access in both markets using the allocated C-band spectrum. In South Korea, all three major operators acquired spectrum in the 3.5 MHz (mid-band) and 28 MHz (high-band) through the auction process in 2018. While all operators prioritized and successfully deployed 5G on the 3.5GHz spectrum, their 28 GHz mmWave band licenses were revoked after failing to meet the deployment conditions set by the country’s regulator, the Ministry of Science and ICT (MSIT). This underscores that deploying 5G on the C-band for the operators has been sufficient to meet the operators requirements so far.

In Malaysia, 5G deployment is facilitated through its single wholesale network provider, Digital Nasional Berhad (DNB), utilizing the 3.5 GHz band for traffic, with 700 MHz serving as the Non-Standalone (NSA) 5G anchor band.

The allocation of C-band for 5G deployment varies across the APAC region. In some markets, 5G deployment relies more on low-band and lower mid-band spectrum range to enable broader outdoor 5G coverage and improved penetration inside buildings in urban and suburban areas. Thailand, one of the first markets to launch 5G in the Asia-Pacific region, has successfully launched 5G services using both 700 MHz and 2.6 GHz bands. The full allocation of C-band is still pending, which may challenge the country’s ability to fully leverage the capabilities of 5G technology. 

Similarly, Indonesia has yet to allocate the C-band spectrum for 5G, which could be challenging due to broadcast and fixed satellite operators’ traditional use of this spectrum. Extensive refarming work may be needed to ensure that mobile operators have access to the spectrum without interference.

5G performance hinges on the spectrum bands used

Data from Speedtest Intelligence from 1H 2024 shows a large variation in 5G download speeds depending on the included frequency in the 5G test samples globally, from a high 1.3 Gbps for samples that included high-band (mmWave) to a more moderate 75.17 Mbps for low band.

Median 5G Download (Mbps) by Included Spectrum Bands
Speedtest Intelligence® | 1H 2024

Samples that included lower-range mid-band spectrum provided 2.48 times better performance compared to the sub-1GHz low-band, with a median download speed of 187.80 Mbps. While samples that included the upper mid-band, i.e., C-band, the preferred spectrum band used for 5G deployment globally, had significantly higher download speeds at 322.38 Mbps, or 1.7 times faster than lower mid-band spectrum, and more than 4 times faster than sub 1-GHz low-band.

C-Band driving improved performance

Chart of Median 5G Download Speed Against Proportion of Included C-band Samples (%)

Drilling further into the selected markets, our data indicates that markets with a higher proportion of C-band samples in the tests, generally had faster median 5G download speeds.

Operators in the UAE, Qatar, and South Korea have ample spectrum allocation, with each operator being provided at least 100 MHz of contiguous C-band spectrum, partially explaining the strong 5G performance in those markets.

United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, and Kuwait have consistently secured top positions in Ookla’s Speedtest Global IndexTM for median download speed over all technologies. This is driven by strong 5G performance, with Speedtest Intelligence data reporting median 5G download speeds in 1H 2024 of 667.99 Mbps in the UAE and 610.67 Mbps in Qatar, while Kuwait maintained a reasonably fast 366.79 Mbps during the same period.

The strong 5G performance can be partly attributable to the combination of ample spectrum access and extensive 5G coverage underpinned by fierce competition among operators. The Telecommunications and Digital Government Regulatory Authority (TDRA) in the UAE has reported that as of Q1 2024, the 5G network covers more than 98% of the populated areas. Additionally, Qatar has made massive investments in building robust 5G networks for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

In APAC, South Korea continues to solidify its position as a regional leader in 5G deployment, showcasing median 5G download speeds of 524.99 Mbps in 1H 2024. South Korean regulator, MSIT, has set strict milestones and requirements after allocating 100 megahertz in the 3.5 GHz band to all three major operators. This move has prompted the operators to accelerate their 5G rollouts with extensive network densification, as evidenced by deploying more than 115,000 5G sites across 85 cities, covering most metropolitan areas and ensuring the country was among the first to reach nationwide population coverage.

Balancing 5G Service and network performance with increasing user demands

Chart of Median 5G Download Speed Against 5G Service (%)

As the adoption of 5G technology continues to expand, operators face the challenge of balancing the need for extensive 5G coverage and high performance to meet the growing demands for advanced use cases. Ookla’s 5G Service metric measures the percentage of known geospatial locations where a 5G-enabled device has access to 5G Service. When comparing 5G service and performance in selected Asia-Pacific markets, apart from some outliers, we noticed that there is typically a trade-off between performance and coverage when operators deploy 5G using a range of spectrum bands.

Median 5G Download (Mbps) and 5G Service (%) Quarterly Trend in Selected APAC Markets
Source: Speedtest Intelligence® | Q2 2023 – Q2 2024
Median 5G Download (Mbps) and 5G Service (%) Quarterly Trend in Selected APAC Markets

In Hong Kong, 5G Service is widespread at 95.7% as of Q2 2024, thanks to a combination of low-band, mid-band, and C-band spectrum. However, with an average of 75 MHz in C-band allocated to operators, download speeds are constrained at 135.50 Mbps.

Singapore, where all three operators have commercialized 5G SA, reported well-balanced 5G Service and download performance. In Q2 2024, Singapore 5G Service was at 80.3%, and the median download speed was 341.49 Mbps. This is due to the operators’ optimal combined use of the 2.1GHz mid-band spectrum and 3.5 GHz C-band spectrum nationwide.

Despite initially achieving some of the fastest 5G speeds in the region, Malaysia, with its unique 5G deployment strategy through a nationwide single wholesale network, has experienced a decline in speed as 5G services and availability have increased. Overall, the country’s 5G download speed has fallen from 506.96 Mbps in Q2 2023 to 387.39 Mbps in Q2 2024, as 5G Service increased significantly from 9.4% in Q2 2023 to 26.5% in Q2 2024. The 100 MHz C-band spectrum allocated to the SWN provider, shared among five 5G providers, appears constrained as 5G Service and availability increase, leading to declining median speeds. GSMA Intelligence data estimates that the adoption of 5G technology in Malaysia was 10.1% in Q2 2023 and increased to 37.0% in Q2 2024. The rapid adoption of 5G technology is impacting performance and will continue to do so as adoption rates increase and traffic demand per connection rises. This underscores the importance of ongoing spectrum management to maintain high-performance 5G networks and effectively address the increasing demands and new 5G use cases.

It was observed that in markets leveraging lower-band spectrum for wider 5G coverage, there was a trade-off between extensive coverage and performance. Thailand, for example, underscores the critical role of C-band spectrum in unlocking 5G’s full potential. Despite achieving 65.4% 5G Service in Q2 2024, the lack of C-band allocations has limited 5G performance to a median download speed of 135.30 Mbps. This highlights the importance of incorporating C-band spectrum alongside low-band and lower mid-band frequencies to deliver optimal 5G speeds and capabilities.

Wider contiguous spectrum is needed for future 5G networks

5G has been the fastest mobile generation rollout to date, surpassing one billion connections by the end of 2022, rising to 1.6 billion connections at the end of 2023 and 5.5 billion by 2030. As the number of 5G connections continues to grow, sustaining a good user experience becomes more important, underscoring the need to maintain and enhance network capacity.

The increasing data traffic and the proliferation of data-intensive applications and services drive the demand for greater contiguous mid-band spectrum, particularly in the 3.3-4.2 GHz C-band range. Allocating additional spectrum would also help mobile operators meet the ITU’s minimum technical performance requirements for download speeds of 100 Mbps and upload speeds of 50 Mbps in densely populated urban areas. 

We will continue to monitor spectrum demands and monitor their impact on network global performance. For more information about Speedtest Intelligence data and insights, please get in touch.

Ookla retains ownership of this article including all of the intellectual property rights, data, content graphs and analysis. This article may not be quoted, reproduced, distributed or published for any commercial purpose without prior consent. Members of the press and others using the findings in this article for non-commercial purposes are welcome to publicly share and link to report information with attribution to Ookla.

Spectrum
Hong Kong

About the Author

Affandy Johan

Ookla Research™ Articles
| July 22, 2024

Fiber In The Philippines Is Improving And Catching Up With Its Regional Peers

Fixed broadband speeds in the Philippines are gradually improving. This is attributed to the combined efforts of ISPs and government agencies to expand coverage and promote the transition from legacy fixed-line technologies to faster fiber connections. However, the distribution of fixed network infrastructure across the country is uneven, and there is still room for further improvement and adoption.

Key Takeaways

  • Fixed performance in the Philippines is improving but still lags behind some neighbors. While the Philippines’ fixed broadband network performance continues to improve quarter over quarter, Ookla® Speedtest Intelligence® shows the Philippines’ speed of 94.42 Mbps in Q2 2024 was behind some of its Southeast Asian peers’ median download speeds, such as Singapore (284.93 Mbps), Thailand (231.01 Mbps), Vietnam (135.00 Mbps), and Malaysia (132.72 Mbps).
  • The five fastest regions in the Philippines were in Luzon Island, highlighting the unequal distribution of fixed network infrastructure. In Q2 2024, Luzon Island had the regions with the top five fastest fixed performance in the Philippines, all reporting download and upload speeds surpassing 90 Mbps. Calabarzon had the fastest fixed median download speed of 99.55 Mbps, while the Eastern Visayas region had the lowest median fixed download speed of 38.43 Mbps.
  • An increase of Starlink’s low-Earth orbit satellite-based connection is an interesting development and may make this satellite service a viable home broadband alternative. Speedtest samples for Starlink in the Philippines have significantly increased over the past year. However, Starlink’s performance lags behind that of fixed broadband, with median download speeds half of fixed download speeds for all operators, at 48.14 Mbps compared to 94.42 Mbps. Upload speeds were also significantly lower, at 12.63 Mbps compared to 94.13 Mbps reported by all fixed broadband operators.

Philippines’ fixed performance continues to trail behind neighboring counterparts

Broadband subscriptions in Southeast Asia substantially surged during the pandemic, reflecting the increased demand for connectivity. Although 92% of the total broadband subscriptions are mobile, there are efforts in the region to bolster fixed broadband access. Government initiatives in the region have led to improvements in fixed broadband performance. However, there is still a disparity in broadband performance among regional counterparts. 

Looking at performance in Q2 2024 in select Southeast Asian markets, Singapore and Thailand maintained a significant performance lead compared to other countries in the region, achieving median fixed broadband download speeds in excess of 200 Mbps during Q2 2024. Malaysia and Vietnam demonstrated similar performance, both achieving median fixed download speeds of 132.72 Mbps and 135.00 Mbps, respectively, surpassing the Philippines’ speed of 94.42 Mbps in Q2 2024. Of the remaining selected markets, Brunei had a speed of 77.50 Mbps, trailing behind the Philippines, while Indonesia, which shares geographical similarities with the Philippines as both are archipelagos composed of thousands of islands, reported the slowest fixed-line market, recording a median download speed of 31.42 Mbps during the same period.

Fixed Median Download Speed Across Select Southeast Asian Countries
Speedtest Intelligence® | Q2 2024

Mobile internet is the primary means of access in the Philippines, with only 33% of households having fixed broadband, which is significantly lower than the ASEAN average of 41%. Additionally, the annual charge for fixed broadband accounts for 11% of the per capita gross national income (GNI), which is twice as much as the ASEAN average, making it unaffordable for some of the lower-income population. 

Accelerated fiber deployments result in a 50% improvement in broadband speeds

The Philippines was the fastest growing economy across Southeast Asia in 2023. With the improving GDP, there is more disposable income for people to afford connectivity solutions and increased demand for better broadband connectivity in the country. As a result, the fixed broadband market in the Philippines has undergone significant transformations in recent years, marked by a notable shift towards fiber networks and the implementation of 5G fixed wireless access. Both governmental initiatives and efforts by leading ISPs have resulted in substantial investments aimed at expanding and modernizing infrastructure throughout the archipelago.

According to GlobalData in 2022, DSL lines accounted for 37% of total fixed broadband subscriptions in the Philippines. This is expected to gradually decrease and be replaced by fiber, with projections indicating that fiber will constitute over 36% of all fixed broadband lines by 2027.

One key government project aimed at enhancing internet infrastructure is the National Broadband Plan (NBP). Through the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT), the Philippine government has rolled out the NBP, which seeks to bridge the digital divide by establishing a nationwide fiber broadband network and wireless technology to provide faster and more affordable internet access to all Filipinos. 

As part of NBF, the government recently launched the first phase of its National Fiber Backbone (NFP) project. Targeted to be completed by 2026, the NFB project aims to enhance connectivity and government operational efficiency while extending internet access in Regions I, III, and NCR. 

Besides government-led initiatives, ISPs such as Converge ICT, Globe Telecom, and PLDT are investing in and expanding their networks and upgrading their technologies. These efforts aim to offer faster internet speeds to their customers and enhance internet connectivity in both urban and rural areas. 

PLDT started deploying fiber in 2015 and as of the end of 2023 it reached 17.3 million households with fiber.. Similarly, Converge ICT, the incumbent fixed broadband player, added 900,000 new homes to its fiber footprint in 2023 and ended the year with nearly 16 million homes passed.

Network performance in the Philippines has improved over the past two years. Ookla Speedtest Intelligence® data indicates a steady increase in median fixed download and upload speeds across the Philippines for all fixed providers combined between Q2 2022 and Q2 2024. During this period, the median fixed download speed rose by 51% from 62.51 Mbps to 94.42 Mbps. Since most ISPs offer symmetric speeds, the median fixed upload speed also showed an upward trend, increasing from 58.65 Mbps in Q2 2022 to 94.13 Mbps in Q2 2024.

Median Fixed DL and UL Performance in the Philippines
Speedtest Intelligence® | Q2 2022 – Q2 2024

Regions in Luzon Island dominates fixed broadband performance, underscoring disparities across the country

Despite various efforts to enhance fixed performance throughout the Philippines, there are persistent regional disparities in median download and upload speeds due to the uneven distribution of fixed network infrastructure. Based on Speedtest Intelligence® data from Q2 2024, Luzon Island stands out for its fixed internet performance, with the five fastest regions situated on the island, recording download and upload speeds surpassing 90 Mbps. Given Luzon’s economic significance and high population density, it is where the majority of the country’s investment in high-speed broadband infrastructure is concentrated, especially in the capital, Metro Manila, as well as nearby provinces, and central Luzon.

“> Map of Fixed Download Performance in the Philippines
“> Map of Fixed Upload Performance in the Philippines

Calabarzon, the region with the largest population of 16 million, had the fastest fixed median download speed of 99.55 Mbps in Q2 2024. The region has the second-highest percentage of households with access to fixed broadband network, at 23.4%, after Metro Manila (NCR), which had the highest share, at 26.4%. At the other end of the scale, the Eastern Visayas region (Region VIII), occupying the eastern section of Visayas Island, scored the lowest median fixed download speed at 38.43 Mbps.

Fixed Wireless Access and satellite broadband as an alternative to bridge the digital gap 

The Philippines’ geographical layout, consisting of over 7,000 islands, is challenging for fiber deployment. Due to the archipelago’s structure, ISPs may be reluctant to invest in fiber deployment as accessing remote parts can be difficult. In many low-density and low ARPU areas, fixed networks are neither cost-effective nor logistically viable. To this end, Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and Satellite Communication (SatCom) are becoming attractive options for tapping into these underserved and remote populations.

FWA provides the fastest and most flexible broadband option in areas where fixed broadband is unavailable, especially since the Philippines is a predominantly mobile market. 4G FWA has been available in the Philippines for some time and MNOs use FWA to increase broadband adoption in areas with low fixed broadband coverage. As 5G coverage expands nationwide, it brings significant performance improvements, positioning FWA as a strong competitor to the existing fixed alternatives, such as fiber-to-the-home (FTTH).

The Philippines was the first country in Southeast Asia to experience commercial 5G FWA connectivity. In 2019, Globe launched its first commercially available 5G FWA service called Globe At Home AirFiber 5G. This service offers speeds of up to 100 Mbps and generous data allocations of up to 2 terabytes (TB), starting at around P1,899 (USD$36) per month. Smart Communications launched its prepaid Home Wi-Fi 5G called Smart Bro Home Wi-Fi 5G at the end of 2021.

At its peak, an estimated 4.3 million users in the Philippines access broadband through FWA. Interestingly, the FWA growth rate has declined in the last two years, as reported by ABI Research. In early 2023, Globe Telecom reported a subscriber base of 1.2 million for its fixed wireless services, a decrease from 2.4 million the previous year. Likewise, PLDT reported a 45% decline in FWA subscriptions at the end of 2023 compared to the beginning of the year. This decrease in FWA numbers was partly due to the increased availability of fiber broadband access nationwide. Both providers noted a rise in fixed fiber broadband subscriptions, which is understandable given that fiber provides more reliable connectivity than FWA.

There has also been a significant increase in satellite-based connectivity to provide internet access in areas not covered by traditional terrestrial networks. Based on Speedtest samples, Starlink’s LEO service is providing the majority of satellite internet connectivity in the country. Starlink service in the Philippines launched in early 2023. Based on the comparison between Q2 2024 and Q2 2023, there has been a substantial increase in Starlink Speedtest samples in the Philippines, growing by 228.5% over the past year, and this number is expected to increase further. According ABI Research, the Philippines is projected to become the largest Southeast Asian market for satellite broadband, with 909,000 subscriptions by 2028.

Speedtest Intelligence data indicates that Starlink underperformed compared to all fixed broadband operators combined. Starlink’s Q2 2024 median download speeds were almost half of the median fixed download for all operators, at 48.14 Mbps compared to 94.42 Mbps. Starlink’s median fixed upload speeds, at 12.63 Mbps, significantly lagged behind the 94.13 Mbps provided by fixed broadband operators, which provides symmetrical upload and download speeds.

Multi-server latency tends to be higher for satellite providers, with the significant distances between satellites and receivers resulting in long delays. For Q2 2024, Starlink’s multi-server latency was double that of all fixed operators combined, at 50 ms compared to 25 ms for the latter. 

Starlink Performance Against All ISPs Combined
Speedtest Intelligence® | Q2 2024

Besides Starlink’s performance challenges, the equipment and subscription costs are higher than terrestrial broadband options, making it inaccessible for some users. However, it provides a viable alternative, especially in locations without access to fixed broadband or with slower DSL connections.

It’s clear that the regulatory bodies and ISPs in the Philippines are committed to advancing broadband connectivity by implementing various strategies aimed at deploying fiber, promoting its adoption, and offering wireless broadband as an alternative to increase competition. These efforts have led to notable improvements in fiber accessibility and fixed broadband speed over the past two years. However, a significant gap in fixed broadband performance remains compared to some neighboring countries in the region. 

Establishing a closer private-public partnership is imperative to meet the increasing demand for better fixed broadband and narrow the gap with neighboring countries. This, in turn, will drive the development of robust fiber networks and promote greater availability of higher-speed broadband services while encouraging existing customers to upgrade to faster speeds. We’ll continue to monitor the progress of the Philippines’s fixed broadband market and provide updates on the state of fixed broadband connectivity across other Southeast Asian markets. If you are interested in Ookla’s solutions and services for network intelligence and management, get in touch.

Ookla retains ownership of this article including all of the intellectual property rights, data, content graphs and analysis. This article may not be quoted, reproduced, distributed or published for any commercial purpose without prior consent. Members of the press and others using the findings in this article for non-commercial purposes are welcome to publicly share and link to report information with attribution to Ookla.

About the Author

Affandy Johan