The FAS approved the creation by Russian operators of an enterprise for the development of 5G. They were not given the most suitable frequencies

The Federal Antimonopoly Service has allowed telecom operators to set up a frequency clearing joint venture to develop fifth generation (5G) networks. This is stated on the website of the regulator.

The report notes that the deal was approved subject to the preservation of competition in the communications market. All its participants, according to the prescription of the FAS, must have equal access to radio frequencies.

Operators have previously noted that the 3.4-3.8 GHz band is needed for the fastest and most inexpensive deployment of 5G in Russia. They stated that stripping one of the proposed ranges (4.4-4.99 GHz) would cost about 2 trillion rubles, and on the most suitable one it would be several times cheaper. According to Vedomosti sources, last year the Security Council opposed the transfer of this range to operators, and President Vladimir Putin agreed with them. It is now being used by the military.

Compared to 4G, which most smartphones support today, 5G provides faster internet speeds and lower battery drain. However, there are conspiracy theories, whose supporters claim that fifth generation networks supposedly suppress the immune system and spread the coronavirus.