VivaCel-MTS announced the commercial launch of the first 4G/Long Term Evolution network (LTE). VivaCell-MTS’ 4G/LTE network offers downlink and uplink peak data rates up to 150 Mbp/s and 50 Mbp/s respectively. The actual speed provided by the 4G/LTE network is approximately 10 times higher than that of any currently operating 3G networks.

Initially, 4G/LTE will cover the center of Yerevan, with further expansion to Gyumri and Vanadzor and other regional centers of Armenia.

The 4G/LTE devices (dongles) offered to subscribers provided theoretical speeds of up 100 Mbps downlinks and 50 Mbp/s uplinks. The devices also are compatible with the traditional GSM network.

Prior to the full-scale launch of this super high-speed commercial service, VivaCel-MTS has launched its 4G/LTE network in test mode in December 2010, in order to verify the LTE network system for speed, latency, smooth inter-cell handover and other essential conditions required for the commercial operation.

“VivaCell-MTS has launched the first commercial 4G/LTE network in Armenia – to create better modern infrastructure for business, by positioning Armenia as one of the top technologically-advanced countries of the world. As proven by the 4G/LTE trial, our decision to introduce this most innovative technology platform to the Armenian market has been justified. Businesses as well as individual users can benefit from VivaCell-MTS’ 4G/LTE network. The network will give subscribers the ability to work at significantly faster speeds and increased work efficiency. 4G/LTE is the technology of the future made available in Armenia today,” VivaCell-MTS General Manager Ralph Yirikian stated.

VivaCell-MTS is the first Armenian company authorized by Armenia’s Public Services Regulatory Commission to build 4G mobile network through LTE technology using sections of radio-frequencies in the range of 40 MHz till November 4, 2019, in Yerevan - 2500-2520 MHz and 2620-2640 MHz and 2600-2640 MHz– in the regions, VivaCel-MTS press service reported.