Vodacom South Africa has announced it has successfully tested the world's first integrated passive-active Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) solution, which supports the continued evolution of its 4G and 5G network.
The telco said the technology will enable it to increase network capacity at sites where physical and structural constraints limit expansion.
"For customers, this means a more consistent 4G and 5G experience, with smoother streaming, quicker downloads and improved network performance in areas where demand for connectivity is high," it said.
In a statement, the company said the world-first was achieved in partnership with Nokia, through the successful piloting of the integrated passive-active antenna solution in the Western Cape.
"The technology combines multiple antenna capabilities into a more compact configuration, enabling Vodacom to make more efficient use of existing network sites."
The solution supports dual-band Massive MIMO across the 2600MHz and 3500MHz spectrum bands, enabling Vodacom to use its spectrum more efficiently and deploy network capacity where it is needed most.
Vodacom said these benefits are particularly valuable in high-demand urban areas, where physical space can be limited and conventional network expansion more complex.
"Successful on-site testing demonstrates that the technology can be deployed at sites where limited space or existing infrastructure makes conventional network expansion difficult. This gives Vodacom greater flexibility to add capacity and respond to growing demand for mobile data," the company said.
Vodacom said it will now deploy the solution across its existing network at identified sites where additional capacity is needed, adding that the upgrade will make more efficient use of existing infrastructure while helping to improve network performance for customers.
The company did not say how many sites this covers, over what period, or what capacity gains the pilot delivered.
The deployment follows Vodacom's rollout of Africa's first dual-band Massive MIMO radio in Cape Town last year, which allowed the operator to broadcast its full TDD spectrum holding from a single radio unit.
The telco said the latest pilot forms part of its continued investment in building a more resilient, efficient and future-ready network that enables more people to benefit from reliable, high-quality connectivity.
“As demand for mobile data continues to grow, we need to continuously evolve our network to deliver the quality and consistency of experience our customers expect,” said Beverly Ngwenya, Vodacom South Africa’s technology director. “Innovations like this allow us to enhance our network in smarter and more efficient ways, ensuring it is ready to support customers’ changing connectivity needs. Ultimately, this is about continuing to invest in the quality and resilience of our network and delivering on our purpose to connect for a better future.”
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