The carrier launched a bus service in which customers can experience virtual reality and augmented reality via 5G
Korean carrier KT is showcasing the capabilities of 5G technology through a special bus service in central Seoul, Korean press reported.
The bus allows passengers to experience next-generation technologies, such as virtual reality and augmented reality, through KT’s 5G network.
The bus will run in the Gwanghwamun area until January 24, and in the Gangnam arae from January 25 to February 2. Rides will be offered five times a day, the Korean firm said.
The bus is equipped with VR headsets that provide live multi-channels in real-time, with a 360-degree viewing angle.
Users are also able to check out various content without the typical interruptions to streaming or slowdowns in internet speed that can come with access from a moving vehicle, according to KT.
“5G network makes it possible to transfer huge volumes of information safely and in real-time,” said Park Hyun-jin, head of KT’s 5G business. “We will continue to offer innovative 5G services that can provide new experiences and value to consumers.”
In December 2018, KT officially launched its 5G network commercial service, through an AI-equipped robot named Lota. The robot will guide visitors through the Seoul Sky Observatory, which sits on top of Lotte World Tower in eastern Seoul. The company said at the time that it aims to expand its 5G offerings in the coming months.
KT deployed the first phase of its 5G network in late November. The new service has been launched in the greater Seoul metropolitan area, in the country’s most populated, major metropolitan cities outside Seoul and in isolated areas including Jeju, Ulleung and Dok islands. The carrier also said it plans to expand its nationwide 5G network to 24 major cities, key transport routes such as expressways, subways, high-speed railways, large universities and neighborhood shopping areas.
Rival operators SK Telecom and LG Uplus have also recently launched initial 5G services in certain areas of Seoul and other metropolitan areas. SK Telecom recently said that its 5G offering for the corporate segment will be provided as a package with mobile routers and network services.
LG Uplus said it has been deploying base stations to launch its commercial 5G offering since October. The carrier said it will have more than 7,000 base stations by the end of December. It has already set up 4,100 5G base stations in 11 cities including Seoul, Incheon, Daejeon, Bucheon, Goyang, Gwangmyeong, Hanam and other cities in Gyeonggi Province.
LG Uplus also highlighted that it will adapt its 5G service to various sectors, such as the remote control of heavy equipment and agricultural machines, drones, CCTV, smart factories and smart cities.
In June, South Korea completed a tender process through which it awarded spectrum in both the 3.5 GHz and 28 GHz bands. The government made available a total of 280 megahertz in the 3.5 GHz spectrum band and 2,400 megahertz in the 28 GHz band. The spectrum was divided into 28 blocks and 24 blocks.
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