Various forecasts predict that the use of mobile phones and data traffic over the mobile network will increase markedly between 2012 and 2020. This growth cannot be handled merely by providing new mobile radio frequencies. Long Term Evolution (LTE) is a powerful mobile radio technology that can meet the need for greater capacity in mobile communications. Some mobile operators have already carried out LTE trials in Switzerland; an auction of mobile spectrum will provide frequency bands which are suitable for this technology. Is it foreseeable that it will be possible for the mobile customer base in Switzerland to use LTE. When this will actually happen, however, remains an open question.
Data traffic on Swiss mobile networks is growing very rapidly. To meet the requirements for higher capacity and higher data rates, the industry has developed the new LTE mobile radio system - a successor to the UMTS, HSPA and HSPA+ mobile technologies. The aim is to enable up to four times more people to use the mobile network or to enable more data to be transmitted. Compared with the previous-generation technologies, the network costs are relatively low.
The LTE factsheet below provides an overview of the technology, frequencies and licences, services and environmental requirements.
Last modification 21.10.2015