If you thought the end of 2G and 3G networks was the last major network change, think again. T-Mobile is now preparing for its next bold move of starting the phase-out process of the LTE or 4G network. According to the leaked internal document, the carrier is planning to completely repurpose its LTE spectrum into 5G over the next two years.

T-Mobile plans to phase out LTE, will re-farm the frequencies for 5G

The process of changing the spectrum infrastructure from one network or frequency to another is known as “re-farming.” In this context, it means that existing LTE frequencies of the T-Mobile network will be reused to broadcast 5G signals. The firm will phase out the LTE network soon, and due to the move, the coverage of 5G will also expand.

T-Mobile’s current LTE network runs on several bands, such as 2, 4/66, 12, and part of 71. Over time, these bands will be transitioned to their 5G equivalents, such as n66 and n2. The main spectrum 5G bands of the network, 600 MHz (n71) and 2500 MHz (n41), will remain the backbone for coverage and speed.

The LTE network won’t disappear totally until 2035

T-Mobile will not completely discontinue the LTE network. It will retain a narrow 5 MHz-wide LTE channel at least until 2035. It would be retained so that older AIoT devices, like ATMs and car infotainment systems, remain functional. However, for most smartphone and other 5G-supported gadget users, LTE services will gradually weaken as 5G is set to dominate by 2028.

This shift won’t affect any smartphone users. Any 5G-enabled phone released in the last few years will continue to work seamlessly. However, older LTE or NSA (non-standalone) 5G-supported devices could lose functionality as the LTE network fades from the region. The transition from LTE to 5G is expected to commence soon and will unfold over the next two years.
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Source: ndroidheadlines.com