STC launches first 5G standalone (SA) core network in Bahrain via Huawei
STC Bahrain [1.] has announced the launch of the first 5G standalone (SA) core network in the kingdom using Huawei network equipment. This 5G SA network will enable new communication services for consumers and enterprises. Examples include high-resolution video, VR, AR, multimedia and online data communication.
The 5G standalone network will support the three ITU-R 5G Use Cases — enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB), ultra-reliable low latency communications (URLLC) and Massive Machine-Type Communications (mMTC) services. It will enable services in the public security, transportation, banking, consumer services, manufacturing, petroleum, port, healthcare and education sectors, among others.
5G SA supports multi-access edge computing (MEC) and uplink-centric broadband connectivity for both B2B and B2C services, STC said.
STC and Zain have deployed commercial 5G SA networks in Saudi Arabia, while STC has also launched 5G SA in Kuwait.
Note 1. STC Bahrain is a telecommunications service provider based in Bahrain. It is owned by the Saudi Telecom Company and started its commercial service in March 2010. The company is headquartered in Manama, Bahrain.
References:
http://www.abc-bahrain.com/News/1/334499
https://www.gsma.com/mobileeconomy/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/GSMA_MENA_ME2022_R_WebSingles.pdf
Ericsson said that more than 20 5G SA networks were already operational globally by the end of 2021. The number of 5G Standalone (SA) networks at a global level could reach nearly 40 at the end of 2022, according to the latest edition of the Ericsson Mobility Report. Ericsson added that China and North America were the first markets in which 5G SA was launched, followed by commercial launches in several other markets, including Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Thailand, Germany and Finland.
https://www.rcrwireless.com/20220624/5g/ericsson-expects-nearly-40-sa-5g-networks-globally-end-2022