5G spectrum: Govt promises faster internet speeds, cheaper phones

5G spectrum: Govt promises faster internet speeds, cheaper phones

The government has promised faster internet relief. File photo

January, 2 2026

ISLAMABAD (Web Desk): The government said Friday that the current year brings positive news for the public in the telecom sector including 5G spectrum.

With 5G spectrum auction confirmation the government has promised faster internet, fewer disruptions, and wider telecom access for users across Pakistan.

Speaking at a press conference in Islamabad, Federal Minister for Information Technology Shaza Fatima Khawaja said the government is actively working to fix internet-related problems.

She said strong efforts were made last year to keep internet shutdowns to a minimum. She added that the Ministry of Interior also cooperated in this process.

The minister said Pakistan is currently operating on 274 megahertz spectrum. She confirmed that the federal cabinet has approved the auction of the 5G spectrum, which will be held next month in February under improved terms.

She explained that seven different bands are available for the 5G auction, out of which five new bands will be auctioned. Each band has its own quality and features. She said noticeable improvement in 4G services will appear within three to four months after the auction.

Shaza Fatima Khawaja said 5G services will first be launched in major cities within six months. She also announced that the government will provide 5G smartphones to citizens on easy monthly installments.

She added that the cabinet has approved the MVNO policy. Under this policy, MVNO companies will be able to offer services using existing telecom operators’ networks.

Recently, telecom experts warned that without affordable 5G phones, the technology may remain limited to a small group. They said Pakistan has fewer than three million 5G smartphones, which could widen the digital divide.

Experts also said high spectrum prices, lack of local phone assembly, and foreign currency costs could slow network rollout. They stressed that 5G success depends on users, coverage, and economic value, not just revenue.

The government is pushing hard for digital progress. 5G can improve speeds even for 4G users. Affordable devices remain the real challenge. Policy balance will decide how successful 5G becomes.