Nokia will supply a new cloud-native 5G core network to StarHub in order to manage 5G standalone (SA) bandwidth demand.
StarHub launched Singapore’s first non-standalone 5G services for consumers and enterprises six months ago.

The 5G SA network rollout is well underway and spans core, radio, software, security and professional services with a 5G SA data service launch for StarHub’s customers expected in later this year. StarHub is using the 3.5GHz spectrum for delivering 5G services via SA architecture.

This 5G SA upgrade will enable StarHub to run 5G technology independent of existing 4G network technology. The deployment of 5G SA technology will enable StarHub to simultaneously connect devices and offer mobility solutions.

StarHub can create several secure mobile campus networks for localised functions through network slicing capability. The operator can also leverage mobile edge computing services to host AI-based solutions such as facial recognition services and to deploy advanced IoT solutions.

StarHub partnered with Nokia to deploy 5G SA trial network at IMDA’s 5G testing facility Living Lab@PIXEL in one-north, which is dedicated to helping industry players develop new 5G solutions and develop technical capabilities.

StarHub is also working with industry players, including Nanyang Polytechnic and National University of Singapore to explore innovative 5G solutions that can enhance higher education experiences, address industry needs and test use cases.

StarHub and Malaysia’s U Mobile have completed a multi-party roaming video conference call over 5G SA technology. More extensive 5G solution trials, including emergency sea rescue operations are in progress.

“We are seeing strong demand for 5G phones and good take-up of our Mobile+ and Biz+ 5G capable plans launched last August – encouraging signs of the market’s appetite for 5G services,” Chong Siew Loong, chief technology officer of StarHub, said.