BSNL talks about rolling out 5G technology by 2020

Chennai: "For the first time in India, we have launched Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service for our customers. With this, we have taken calling technology to the next level in the country," said Chief General Manager, Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) Tamilnadu Telecom Circle, R Marshal Antony Leo.

He said this while launching the organisation's new scheme called "Wings" at an event in Chennai on Thursday. BSNL BBNW New Delhi CGM V Munindra Nath and Press Information Bureau ADC M&C R Chidambaranathan were among others present during the event. He interacted with News Today about what makes BSNL stand out from the crowd.
Excerpts from his interview:
Q: Let us know more about your new product Wings.
A: It's a VoIP service introduced for the first time in our country exclusively for BSNL customers. Customers have to pay an yearly fee of Rs 1,099 after which they will be provided with an app, a 10-digit phone number that are compatible with all mobile operating systems and computers. With that, customers will be able to speak for unlimited hours. All they would require is an Internet connection that has a minimum speed of one Mbps. The registration commences on 25 July.
Q: There are applications which provide voice calling feature already. What is different with Wings?
A: Firstly, in WhatsApp and other similar apps, the call recipient should also be connected to the Internet. With Wings, the recepient need not have internet connection. The caller will be able to connect to landlines even. Secondly, Wings requires very less data unlike other messenger apps. Third, Wings can be installed simultaneously on any number of computers and mobiles.
Q: Does the function of Wings mirror that of other messengers?
A: It is only a calling app. For sending SMS or other features like sending photos, videos, etc., we have to rely on existing apps. We have over 25,000 public hotspots in India and over 65,000 worldwide. In Tamilnadu alone we have over 500 hotspots. With Wings, we believe that our customers will effectively use our hotspots for calling 24/7. One thing needs mentioning. The calls are free only in India. If customers dial foreign numbers, they will be charged as per our ISD tariffs.
Q: Has Aircel closure helped BSNL regain its market share?
A: Absolutely. Aircel closed down in February this year. In 2017-18 fiscal alone, we got 27 lakh new connections of which 9.8 lakh were from Aircel post its closure. That shift helped us grow by three per cent when compared to the previous fiscal. Now, we command a strong market share of 14 per cent and are the fourth largest operator in India. This growth has come even after 1.6 lakh customers went out of our fold in the 2017-18 fiscal.
Q: Why hasn't BSNL launched 4G services yet?
A: Department of Telecommunications (DoT) is the one which allocates spectrum for 4G services. We have already applied and have the necessary equipment in place. We are awaiting their approval. It's inevitable to say we have, indeed, missed the 4G race. But as far as 5G is concerned, we are very particular about launching it in 2020 itself. Unlike 4G, 5G is highly advanced and an integrated system which includes even Internet of Things (IoT).
Q: Let us know more about your recently introduced plans.
A: The plans have a speed of 20 Mbps but are very cheap to avail. At Rs 99 a month, we are offering 1.5 GB data every day, Rs 200 will provide 5 GB data every day for a month, Rs 299 will offer 10 GB data for a month and Rs 491 a month will offer 20 GB every day. All these plans have unlimited free voice calling over landline. In addition, we also have a host of other mobile and fibre optic plans. People can check them out in our website.