The Bhutan InfoComm and Media Authority (BICMA) published a notification informing the general public that Bhutan Telecom Limited (BTL) is phasing out the 3G network to create room for 4G and 5G, which are more sophisticated technology. Manufacturers are urged to upgrade their products to 4G-compatible SIM cards as the corporation is progressively closing down its 3G base stations around the nation. The official publication can be accessed here.
BTL is discontinuing its 3G network for the following reasons:
- 3G is out-of-date technology; 4G and 5G provide greater coverage and far higher speeds.
- Maintaining a 3G network is expensive: Since the equipment is no longer being produced, the cost of doing so is rising. You may save money by moving to 4G and 5G.
- 3G is inefficient as it consumes a significant amount of spectrum, a costly resource. 4G and 5G, which are more efficient technologies, can make use of this spectrum again.
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