The UAE telecommunications operator, &e, has upgraded its 5.5G mobile network with new technology, allowing download speeds of up to 4 gigabits per second on supported devices. This capability is currently active in selected areas of the UAE, with expansion starting in 2026.

The new technology, called 'Four Carrier Aggregation', allows smartphones to use four network channels simultaneously instead of just one. This system is like combining four parallel internet lines into one wide and fast path, making downloads and streaming significantly faster. This capability is particularly useful in crowded places like shopping malls and stadiums in Dubai.

This upgrade combines two types of frequency spectrum: FDD and TDD. FDD provides broader and more stable coverage, while TDD offers higher data capacity. The goal of this combination is to improve the actual performance of the mobile network in the UAE, not just to increase announced speeds.

Abdulrahman Al-Humaidan, Senior Vice President of Access Network Development at &e UAE, stated that this initiative strengthens the 5.5G network by providing stable multi-gigabit speeds and increasing capacity across the country. This technology supports high-bandwidth applications such as 8K video streaming, cloud gaming, and advanced enterprise applications.

&e announced that this upgrade also supports VoNR services and helps reclaim existing 4G spectrum for 5G use, enhancing the long-term efficiency of the network. The company is also collaborating with global technology partners and smartphone manufacturers to expand support for 5.5G capabilities in more devices.

Source: Gulf News