The government-owned telecom company Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) is set to introduce a platform that supports 4G and 5G and is compatible with over-the-air (OTA) and Universal SIM (USIM). This platform will allow subscribers to select their mobile numbers and replace SIMs without any geographical limitations.
BSNL has announced that the platform, which was developed in partnership with Pyro Holdings, was launched in Chandigarh and has a disaster recovery site in Trichy.
"The new 4G and 5G compatible platform is designed to serve all BSNL customers across the country, offering unparalleled connectivity and service quality," BSNL said on Friday.
The company is gradually rolling out a 4G network across the country.
"The introduction of this platform coincides with BSNL's ongoing network upgrades to 4G and 5G, positioning the company at the forefront of telecommunications innovation. This milestone represents a significant step in BSNL’s efforts to bridge the digital divide and empower citizens in rural and remote areas, ensuring equitable access to advanced telecommunications services," the statement said.
According to the announcement, the platform for Universal SIM (USIM) and over-the-air (OTA) offers BSNL mobile users the freedom to select mobile numbers instantly and allows for SIM replacement without geographical limitations.
"This platform will be immensely useful for customers seeking SIM replacement without geographical restrictions, aiding in modification of SIM profile and remote file management on SIM cards. Moreover, it enables SIM swaps to be performed anywhere in the country," BSNL Chairman and Managing Director Ravi A Robert Jerard said.
Earlier this month, the Union telecom minister, Jyotiraditya Scindia, announced that BSNL plans to set up 80,000 towers for 4G services by the end of October and the remaining 21,000 towers by March 2025.
BSNL has rolled out 4G services in specific areas, such as Punjab, using network equipment developed domestically.
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