- U Mobile and Huawei successfully trialled seamless 5G connectivity across the 13.5-kilometre Penang Bridge, achieving speeds up to 597Mbps.
- This partnership utilises Huawei’s MetaAAU technology, enhancing coverage and user experience while eliminating the need for a mid-bridge base station.
U Mobile and Huawei redefine connectivity on Penang Bridge
U Mobile has partnered with Huawei to successfully conduct a groundbreaking trial of seamless 5G connectivity across the 13.5-kilometre Penang Bridge. This trial achieved impressive network speeds, with users experiencing a minimum of 120Mbps and an average of 597Mbps, even at vehicle speeds of 80km/h.
The deployment utilised Huawei‘s innovative Meta Active Antenna Unit (MetaAAU) technology, which enhances coverage and user experience by employing Extremely Large Antenna Arrays and beamforming algorithms. This approach eliminated the need for a traditional 4G base station in the middle of the bridge, a significant advancement given the historical challenges of maintaining consistent coverage on such a long structure. The successful trial marks a vital step towards U Mobile’s goal of becoming Malaysia’s second 5G network provider.
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Advancements in 5G technology enhance user experience in Malaysia
This achievement is significant as it showcases the potential of advanced telecommunications technology to address long-standing connectivity issues in challenging environments. The partnership between U Mobile and Huawei highlights a commitment to innovation that is crucial for the evolution of Malaysia’s digital landscape.
With the increasing demand for high-speed internet, especially post-pandemic, seamless 5G connectivity is essential for supporting activities such as remote work, online education, and high-definition streaming.The implications extend beyond consumer use. The deployment of 5G could facilitate future enterprise applications, including smart traffic management systems, enhanced surveillance capabilities, and emergency response solutions, particularly in urban settings.
As U Mobile prepares to commercialise its 5G network, the development will likely encourage other telecom providers to enhance their offerings, fostering a competitive environment that benefits consumers. This trial not only sets a benchmark for 5G implementation in Malaysia but also positions the nation as a potential leader in Southeast Asia’s digital transformation
