1m of its 150m base has LTE handset. While, it has spectrum to launch LTE in 8 circles, it doesn?t intend to launch until at least 500-700 subs/site acquire LTE handsets. LTE devices remain the biggest challenge in its view.
Idea's Focus on 3G Data
28.5m of Idea Cellular own 3G handsets. Only 12.9m Idea's subs use 3G.
Capacity utilization is 40-60% (even at peak traffic) though it doesn?t plan to bid for additional 3G spectrum (in circles where it acquired in 2010) as current focus is to load 3G on existing 2G sites; will help both coverage & capacity. 3G is currently loaded on 30-40% of 2G sites; aim is to increase this to 60-70% in 3yrs. It believes that only 4-7% of total sites in medium term will need to be 3G only.
