Videocon to launch 4G services in 2013

The operators will launch 4G services in its seven circles.

Videocon Mobile Services, which won spectrum in seven circles in the recently held auctions, has announced that it will launch LTE network in the country. However, unlike Airtel and other 4G players, it will be an FDD network, a technology which is already working in the USA and therefore devices that are compatible with it are available in good numbers.

Videocon Mobile Services bagged liberalised spectrum in six circles of Haryana, Madhya Pradesh-Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, UP west, UP east, Bihar and Jharkhand.

Videocon Mobile Services is planning to roll out complete 4G products and services across the newly won circles in 2013. What will help the company is the fact that unlike the TDD deployed by Airtel, FDD networks are already operational in the USA and other parts of the world, and a wide range of handsets are available for that technology. However, once the complete roll-out happens in India with RIL, Qualcomm, Airtel and Aircel, Videocon might get isolated in the domestic market.

Videocon Mobile Services director and chief executive officer, Arvind Bali, said, "We have spectrum in seven circles constituting a very high population footprint in India. These are also the areas where we enjoy a strong position already and where we see the highest potential for continued growth and profitability."

The Supreme Court had canceled Videocon's license and the company had to participate in the auction again to win back the spectrum and the license.