JERUSALEM (Reuters) – Bezeq Telecom’s mobile subsidiary, Pelephone, has announced its plans to introduce 5G-only packages in a bid to attract more subscribers to its advanced 5G network. The Israeli company revealed this strategic move on Monday, positioning Pelephone as a pioneer in Israel’s adoption of this cutting-edge technology. While Pelephone will be spearheading the 5G rollout, Bezeq assured that subscribers utilizing 4G-only devices will still have the option to participate through modified 4G packages.
Pelephone’s CEO, Ilan Sigal, expressed confidence in the initiative, emphasizing, “This strategic move will encourage rapid migration of customers to cutting edge cellular technology.” The 5G package offered by Pelephone will provide users with 1,000 gigabits of data for 54.90 shekels ($15) per month. Currently, Pelephone boasts over 1.2 million 5G subscribers, constituting 53% of the company’s postpaid customer base.
In the pursuit of enhancing user experience, Pelephone introduced the 5G MAX service in September, ensuring customers enjoy high-speed broadband connectivity even in densely populated settings like concerts and sports events. This service is underpinned by an autonomous 5G network core established in collaboration with Ericsson. Pelephone’s extensive 5G coverage spans across 80% of Israel, reinforcing its commitment to widespread connectivity.
Meanwhile, competitor Cellcom disclosed its milestone achievement of setting up its 1,000th 5G site, unveiling the launch of a superfast 5G Pro network. Cellcom’s 5G Pro package offers 1,500 gigabytes of 5G data at a monthly rate of 59.90 shekels. The telecommunications firm affirmed its dedication to leveraging this new and sophisticated network for all future 5G offerings.
The telecommunications industry in Israel is witnessing a significant shift towards the deployment of 5G technology, with leading companies like Bezeq and Cellcom vying to provide innovative and seamless connectivity solutions to their customer base. These advancements not only cater to the growing demand for high-speed data services but also underscore a broader commitment to technological progress and digital transformation in the region.
(Reporting by Steven Scheer; Editing by David Goodman)
