Telecoms & Satellite Communications Guide Cyprus

CyprusProfile Digital Series
Telecoms & Satellite Communication
NEW 5G REALITY
Cyprus’ operators are constantly updating
and evolving their networks and
are currently updating their investment
plans to embrace 5G infrastructure
along with other European nations.
February 2021 marked the first time a
5G network came into operation across
the island, set in motion by Cytamobile-
Vodafone. The development was described
as marking the beginning of a
new era in the evolution of communication.
The 5G network will not replace the
existing 4G technology but complement
it and is expected to have 10 to 100 times higher data transmission rates
than today’s networks, 1,000 times more data volume, five times lower network
delay, optimised battery life of connected devices and significantly improved geographical
coverage. These advanced next-generation services are poised to radically
change all aspects of daily life, from work to healthcare, and to the development
of smart cities and homes.
However, just like in other countries many in Cyprus have raised concerns over
health risks connected with 5G systems and there has been some resistance to
these developments. The state Electronic Communications Department has reassured
the public that their health is not in danger from antennas to be installed,
and argued that the more antennas, the
lower the electromagnetic fields will be.
The Deputy Ministry of Innovation is
also currently preparing a campaign to
inform people on what 5G really is and
what changes it may bring about. The
government has urged people to weigh
the benefits of the technological advancements,
as the reduction in latency
will mean a more reliable network.
These advanced nextgeneration
services are
poised to radically change
all aspects of daily life,
from work to healthcare,
and to the development of
smart cities and homes.
Besides public resistance, another potential challenge that could delay 5G implementation
in Cyprus is the international controversy surrounding Chinese
telecom giant Huawei, and the US sanctions against the Chinese company. At the
moment more than 90% of local consumers in Cyprus are served in one way or
another by Huawei products. The Chinese tech giant has a 10-year presence in
Cyprus and has developed extensive partnerships with all telecom providers in the
country to provide high-level IT and communications services – and is currently
the only company which produces equipment for all stages of implementing 5G
technologies by using existing 4G equipment.
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