AIS Unveils Commercial 5G-Advanced Launch

Introduction to AIS 5G-Advanced

Advanced Info Service (AIS) has officially launched its 5G-Advanced network, marking a significant milestone as Southeast Asia's first next-level 5G network standard. This advanced network is now available in key areas across Bangkok and other regions nationwide. The initiative represents a crucial step in transforming 5G from a basic connectivity network into an intelligent digital platform that leverages artificial intelligence (AI), multiple frequency aggregation technology, and global partnerships to redefine the benchmark for limitless speed.

Wasit Wattanasap, head of nationwide operations and the support business unit at AIS, highlighted that the development of hardware-software upgrades for the network is aimed at supporting next-generation digital lifestyles and enterprise use cases. Additionally, AIS 5G-Advanced lays a strong foundation for the future transition towards 6G. This advancement is driven by the integration of three core strengths: Partnership + AI + Innovation.

Efficient Technology

The intelligent connectivity of AIS 5G-Advanced is powered by advanced capabilities such as multiple frequency aggregation Downlink 3 Component Carrier (3CC) and Uplink 2 Component Carrier (2CC). These technologies deliver faster downloads, stronger uploads, lower responsiveness, and greater overall network efficiency.

Mr Wasit explained that this technology enables multiple frequency bands to work together seamlessly. Specifically, 3CC combines the 700 megahertz, 2100MHz, and 2600MHz bands, while 2CC combines the 700MHz and 2600MHz bands. This combination significantly enhances network performance and delivers a clearly superior connectivity experience.

The technology increases download speeds by up to 1.5 times through 5G SA (standalone) Downlink 2CC/3CC and upload speeds by up to two times through 5G SA Uplink 2CC. The 2CC and 3CC aggregation are 5G/LTE technologies that combine multiple frequency bands to increase data speeds and capacity. While 2CC generally combines two bands for enhanced throughput, 3CC aggregates three bands for higher speeds, significantly improving user experience in 5G-Advanced and high-traffic scenarios.

Faster 5G Experience

The core of AIS 5G-Advanced lies in carrier aggregation technology, which combines multiple frequency bands to enhance performance across downloads, uploads, smoothness, stability, and network responsiveness. Whether customers are watching high-definition video, playing online games, live-streaming, uploading content, or working through the cloud, those in service areas with compatible devices will be able to experience a clearly enhanced level of connectivity.

Mr Wasit noted that the company is also integrating AI into network traffic management through an autonomous network, enabling the network to analyze, adapt, and respond efficiently to usage conditions in real time.

Currently, the 5G SA Downlink 3CC is available in Sathon and Bang Rak, with plans to expand to key areas across Bangkok later this year. Meanwhile, 5G SA Downlink 2CC is already available in Bangkok and other major urban centers nationwide. The 5G SA Uplink 2CC is available in major cities across the Northeast and Bangkok, and is expected to be available in large cities nationwide later this year.

For customers using AIS 5G-Advanced, the service can be identified by the 5G+ symbol shown at the upper-right corner of the mobile screen, indicating that the customer is connected to an enhanced 5G network with improved speed, stability, and performance. Availability depends on service area, supported frequency bands, compatible devices, and appropriate packages. Customers who meet these conditions can access the enhanced 5G network experience without subscribing to an additional package.

The 5G-Advanced network supports smartphone operating systems on both Android and iOS. Mr Wasit pointed out that consumer behavior has changed dramatically, especially with the number of user uploads exceeding downloads via mobile devices in some areas, driven by greater adoption of AI applications.

Unique Development

Differing from other players, Mr Wasit emphasized that the 5G-Advanced network is not only an AI-ready network but also compiles 3GPP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) Release 18 and the standard of 5G SA Downlink 2CC/3CC and 5G SA Uplink 2CC.

"Globally, only an operator in China previously launched 5G Advanced with development through both standard of 3GPP Release 18 condition and the 5G SA Downlink/Uplink multiple frequency aggregation tech," Mr Wasit said.

3GPP Release 18 is the first release of 5G-Advanced, initiating the second phase of 5G evolution. The release upgrades 5G system performance, efficiency, and intelligence, focusing on AI (AI/ML), enhanced MIMO, non-terrestrial networks (NTN/satellite), and expanded industrial Internet of Things (IoT) capabilities.

This technology acts as a stepping stone towards 6G, he said. Key features of the 3GPP Release 18 include AI/ML adoption, 5G-Advanced evolution, satellite access, and further integration of NTNs for global coverage, IoT, and enhanced support for massive machine-type communications and reduced capability for industrial applications.

This release bridges the gap between commercial 5G and the future 6G, with a strong focus on balancing network performance with efficiency, Mr Wasit noted.

"AIS's key mission is to strengthen Thailand's digital infrastructure. The network development today is no longer only about increasing speed, signal coverage, or the number of base stations. It is about building new capabilities for the country and delivering the best digital experience in every use case," he said.

The latest milestone in advancing Thailand into a new chapter of intelligent networks reinforces AIS's role as a national digital infrastructure provider, said Mr Wasit, as it remains committed to elevating the digital experience for Thais, businesses, and industries, and enabling the country to move confidently into the future.