Major rollout of 5G service only in FY24, Airtel tells investors

Bharti Airtel expects major rollout of 5G service only in FY24 due to limited handset penetration but the company said it is prepared to accelerate launch if competitive pressure demands so.

The Airtel management indicated this at an investor meet last week.

The telecom sector regulator initiated a consultation exercise last December seeking industry views on issues such as 5G spectrum pricing and valuation. The auction of 5G spectrum is expected in the next two-three months after finalisation of recommendations. Airtel management said its network is 5G ready but expects major rollout of service in FY24 as a base case,