Bharti Airtel, a leading telecommunications provider, is gearing up for a significant expansion into the 5G landscape with the introduction of fixed wireless access (FWA) services tailored for industrial use.

The company is adopting the 5G stand-alone (SA) architecture, departing from the non-stand-alone (NSA) approach employed for consumer services. Managing Director Gopal Vittal disclosed ongoing SA trials in a northern Indian city, encompassing 30 sites, the Mint reported.

The strategic shift towards the SA architecture is driven by Airtel’s commitment to optimizing spectrum bands and progressing towards a fully SA network. This move aligns with the company’s vision to capitalize on the evolving landscape of 5G technology as its adoption gains momentum.

In the fiscal quarter ending in 2023, Bharti Airtel reported a substantial year-on-year surge in net profit, reaching ₹2,442 crore. This growth was fueled by a robust Average Revenue Per User (ARPU) of ₹208, reflecting successful endeavors in acquiring high-value customers.

Gopal Vittal emphasized the necessity for “tariff repair” to ensure effective 5G monetization in the Indian market. As the telecommunications giant positions itself for a dynamic 5G future, the focus on pricing strategies becomes paramount to align with evolving consumer expectations and industry dynamics.

The SA trials in progress signify Bharti Airtel‘s proactive stance in technological innovation, reinforcing its position as a key player in India’s telecommunications landscape.

The envisioned transition to a fully SA network underscores the company’s commitment to staying at the forefront of 5G advancements. As the trials continue and the telecommunications landscape evolves, Bharti Airtel is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of connectivity in India.