LTE-TDD may launch early next year in India

Majority of the network operators of the Broadband Wireless Association (BWA) are planning to opt for LTE as the technology that will power networks in the near future, according to a report by Telecom Talk. This means that WiMAX implementation might just be sidelined owing to the preferences of the current network operators.

WiMAX receives a further setback, as BSNL, frontrunners to implement WiMAX on a commercial basis, are planning to now introduce LTE as the 4th generation technology. MTNL were to launch a tender proposal for WiMAX, but have also cancelled their plans. On the other hand, providers like Airtel and Aircel aren’t too keen to jump on the LTE bandwagon as they have spent a lot on 3G itself.

LTE-TDD might come early next year

According to the site, the reason LTE has won over the majority of the network providers is due to its superior speed, low latency and better compatibility with current 2G and 3G technology. The service may be launched in the first quarter of 2012 if everything goes according to plan.

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With the grand plans that these network operators are currently having, it seems like cheaper tariff plans have taken an absolute backseat, which, in essence, is disregard for consumer needs. To be honest, even the current 3G plans are expensive and with the new LTE-TDD technology to be implemented soon, don’t be surprised if faster Internet on-the-go comes at an extremely steep price.