Claro Brazil has launched a 4G LTE network trial in three Brazilian cities, Campos do Jordao (state of Sao Paulo), Buzios and Parati (state of Rio de Janeiro). The statement was made by Claro Brasil CEO Carlos Zenteno at the Qualcomm IQ 2012 event, Teletime reports. Claro has deployed hotspots in Campos do Jordao, Buzios and Parati, where customers can use modems, smartphones and tablets to test the operator’s 4G services.
"We want to thoroughly test the network, applications and variations related to tourist flow in these cities before the commercial launch of our4G network in six cities hosting the Confederations Cup [FIFA Confederations Cup Brazil 2013]," said Zenteno. According to the Claro executive, the operator plans to have 4G operational in these cities even before the April 2013 deadline set in the 2.5 GHz spectrum auction.
Claro noted that the new technology can still not be offered commercially, as the use of the 2.5 GHz band has not been formally agreed with regulator Anatel. Ericsson is the equipment supplier for the first three cities, while negotiations are underway with other companies for future deployments. Claro has also announced it is investing BRL 3.5 billion by the end of 2012 to upgrade its network, with an additional BRL 2.8 billion to be spent by 2014.
