Bangladesh entered into a new chapter of digital connectivity as fourth-generation mobile internet was launched this evening.

Grameenphone, Robi and Banglalink, the three largest operators, have launched their 4G service to their customers in major cities soon after they obtained the licences from the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC).

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GP users in Dhaka to get 4G service 15 minutes into launch

Telecommunication and ICT Minister Mustafa Jabbar handed over the licences to the chief executive officers (CEOs) of the three mobile operators and state-run Teletalk at a ceremony in Dhaka Club this evening.

Mobile operators said the service would enhance customers' daily life and improve the service quality of trade and business. E-education and e-health will also flourish thanks to the 4G.

GP has so far replaced about one crore 4G SIMs out of its 6.5 crore connections. The operator is focusing mainly Dhaka and some parts of Chittagong and Sylhet as part of its initial launch.

A senior official of Robi, the second-largest operator, yesterday said it is going to launch the service in a good number of cities including Dhaka and Chittagong.  Last night, Robi began using technology neutrality, becoming the first operator to do so.

Tech neutrality allows operators to offer any service in any band efficiently. It also helps them cut the cost of doing business.

Banglalink is also launching the service in large cities such as Dhaka, Chittagong, Khulna, and Sylhet.

Teletalk, however, will not go for the 4G service immediately as its network is not ready yet. The state-run operator deposited Tk 10 crore for the 4G licence to the BTRC.