Vi has been in active discussions with the Korean company over the past 12-18 months to expand its existing 4G networks and introduce 5G.

The two companies have conducted network trials in Chennai, and Vi has deployed telecom infrastructure from Samsung in the Karnataka and Bihar circles. This fulfills Vi's minimum roll-out obligations for the 5G spectrum purchased in the 2022 auctions using non-standalone vRAN architecture.

Despite being a cash-strapped telecom operator, Vi is yet to roll out 5G networks, while rivals Airtel and Jio are close to completing their pan-India rollout.

"We are proud to demonstrate our leadership in next-generation radio solutions (vRAN) that can deliver an enhanced experience to our customers with better TCO. This vRAN deployment, delivered through Samsung?s innovation and joint technological strategic initiatives, aligns with our technology transformation roadmap and enriched vendor ecosystem. We see a major role ahead for hybrid architecture in delivering the network-enhanced capabilities that will push new dimensions in radio architecture," said Jagbir Singh, CTO, Vi. (Source: ET)