SIM Plus to launch 3G-2.1GHz service in Oct
Samart i-Mobile Plus (SIM Plus) will start providing third-generation 2.1-gigahertz cellular broadband service on TOT's network in October under a new contract recently granted by the state agency, aiming to boost subscriber numbers to 400,000 from the pr
Watchai Vilailuck, president of Samart Corp, SIM Plus’ parent, said it had chosen to debut the service in October as by that the time TOT is scheduled have expanded its 3G base stations to 5,000 nationwide from the present 3,000.
TOT’s board recently approved a bid from SIM Plus to procure 40 per cent of its 3G network capacity for providing the service. The board approved a five-year deal with SIM Plus, to be reviewed every two years. The 40-per-cent capacity of TOT’s network can serve 2.88 million subscribers.
SIM Plus will pay TOT a minimum guarantee in the first year of Bt156 million and another Bt476 million in the second year.
During the first two years, if TOT fails to come up with a |concrete plan to set up 8,500 |more 3G base stations, which is part of the second phase of the agency’s 3G network expansion, SIM Plus can propose to abort its contract.
SIM Plus is one of five companies currently providing 3G service on TOT’s network. The state agency has asked them and other interested firms to propose new contracts.
