TRAI: Companies to face action for slow speeds; TRAI preparing to introduce new rules for 4G and 5G—here are the proposals..

Network Slicing Technology: Telecom regulator TRAI issued new draft regulations regarding quality of service on Wednesday. These rules propose allowing mobile companies to adopt network slicing technology and charge different rates for distinct services, such as 4G and 5G. If implemented, these rules could lead to significant changes in the pricing of mobile internet and telecom services.

What is Network Slicing Technology?
Network slicing is a technology that allows a single network to be divided into multiple distinct segments. Each segment can be dedicated to a specific service or customer group.

With this technology, companies will be able to provide varying levels of network capacity and speed for 4G, 5G, and other services.

Companies Can Charge Different Rates
TRAI has also proposed changes to existing regulations. Instead of measuring the average download and upload speeds provided to all customers, the new rules would specify download and upload speeds for each tariff plan based on the underlying technology.

Following this change, telecom companies could set different prices for 4G and 5G services; currently, customers pay roughly the same price for both.

TRAI's Key Condition
The regulator has clearly stated that operators must possess adequate network capacity before launching any new network slice.
Furthermore, if a plan fails to deliver even 80 percent of the promised download speed to customers, it will be considered a violation of the regulations.

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Information Must Be Provided to Customers
Under the proposed rules, telecom companies must inform customers if the promised speeds are not being delivered.
Additionally, companies will be required to take necessary corrective measures before submitting their next compliance report.

Proposal to Enhance Network Capacity
TRAI has stated that the utilization of Physical Resource Blocks (PRBs) during network slicing should not exceed 80 percent. If PRB utilization exceeds 80 percent for five consecutive days in any given month, companies will be required to increase network capacity promptly.

Airtel has introduced network slicing.
This move by TRAI is being viewed as supportive of Bharti Airtel's recent network slicing initiative.
However, companies like Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea have not supported this technology; they believe it could lead to discrimination among customers.

By when can suggestions be submitted?
TRAI has set August 26 as the deadline for submitting suggestions and opinions on the draft regulations. Meanwhile, counter-comments can be submitted until September 7.

How will this impact customers?
If these rules are implemented, customers might have to pay different prices for 4G and 5G services in the future.
However, they are also likely to benefit from better speeds and a more stable network experience. Ultimately, a final decision will be taken after considering the suggestions and industry feedback.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Amar Ujala. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content