M1 unveils Singapore's first commercial HetNet for faster internet speeds

Access speeds to boost to more than 1Gbps by 2017.

M1 subscribers can look forward to faster internet speeds as the company commenced the rollout of Singapore's first commercial nationwide Heterogenous Network (HetNet), the integration of large and small cells with wireless radio technologies such as cellular and WiFi.

HetNet will enable M1 to provide the best coverage and network capacity to meet the escalating consumer demands.

With the help of Nokia's Flexi Zone small cells and WiFi equipment across hundreds of high-traffic hotspots, M1 plans to deploy HetNet spots in MRT/LRT stations, malls and popular outdoor areas to boost peak download speeds of more than 1Gbps.

Nokia's small cells' compact footprints would allow M1 to deploy HetNet to hard-to-reach areas such as car parks, basements and parks.

Earlier this year, M1 started HetNet trials in different sites across the city-state. The trials saw subscribers reporting up to 60% improvement in download speeds.

Info-communications Media Development Authority of Singapore Chief Executive Gabriel Lim said this project is part of the city-state's thrust to gear towards a Smart Nation.

"The results from our HetNet technology trials were positive. 90% of users enjoyed a better mobile experience, with faster download and upload speeds. We are pleased that the trials have given our partners such as M1 useful insights and confidence to further enhance the mobile experience through commercial HetNet deployment," he said.

Meanwhile, M1 Chief Executive Officer Karen Kooi sees HetNet deployment as an integral part of the telco's 5G network roadmap.

“Our HetNet rollout will enable us to further enrich our customers’ lives. This HetNet deployment is also an integral part of our 5G network roadmap, the infrastructure on which we will build an ubiquitous on-demand, high-performance 5G service for our customers and that enables us to support our Smart Nation vision," Kooi said.