The rapid expansion of 5G technology has positioned the MENA region as a frontrunner in digital innovation, demonstrating impressive adoption rates that play an integral role in driving economic growth and transforming multiple industries. These advancements have enabled extensive regional connectivity, particularly among mobile users, with 5G subscriptions expected to climb to 500 million by 2030, based on the most recent projections.
However, while 5G networks allow for faster roll out, greater capacity, and broader coverage, the same technology has its disadvantages when mobile users move indoors. As buildings incorporate increasingly complex designs and varying materials, achieving adequate 5G coverage indoors has become an ongoing challenge.
5G Update: Zain KSA Unlocks New 5G Horizons with Low-Band Spectrum
Where Challenges Meet Solutions
Inconsistent indoor connectivity has plagued businesses, public spaces, and homeowners for over six years since 5G’s initial deployment, often preventing mobile network operators (MNOs) from fully leveraging the technology’s powerful features. This limitation affects users’ ability to access streamlined connectivity, creating an opportunity for innovative solutions that support data-heavy applications.
As the demand for 5G connectivity grows throughout the region, providers are tasked with ensuring that customers can seamlessly access their services at any time or any place.
Renowned for its leadership in 5G networks across Saudi Arabia and the region, Zain KSA is driving advancements that are reshaping connectivity. One such innovation is the deployment of Zain KSA’s 5G-powered Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), which provides homes and small businesses with high-capacity connectivity using Customer Premises Equipment (CPE) devices that convert 5G frequencies into high-performance Wi-Fi. Recently, Zain KSA announced the successful testing of ‘The Glass Antenna,’ a new technology that will transform how 5G is experienced across the Kingdom and beyond.
Introducing The Glass Antenna
5G connectivity requires a denser network of base stations to ensure consistent indoor connectivity due to the smaller footprint coverage of the technology. Subsequently, companies are faced with implementing solutions to enhance user experience without resorting to traditional signal receptors that could disrupt architectural aesthetics. This principle drove AGC Glass Europe and Japanese companies to introduce the first glass antenna in 2020, turning windows into functional base stations. This technology was revolutionary in integrating 5G technology into buildings, improving connectivity, and preserving the exterior design.
Proof of Concept
As a digital innovation first-mover, Zain KSA consistently seeks solutions to push the limits of its 5G networks and make this high-speed connectivity more accessible and efficient for broader segments of users. Through a strategic collaboration with Nokia and AGC Glass Europe, Zain KSA is currently testing ‘WAVE by AGC’ transparent glass technology in Jeddah.
Building on the success of AGC’s tech, this proof of concept (PoC) aims to evaluate the enhanced delivery of indoor 5G coverage in real-world conditions, mitigating the need for intrusive equipment, such as traditional Distributed Antenna Systems (DAS) and smart, micro-outdoor solutions.
The PoC focuses on two specific use cases:
- WAVEANTENNA-FWA: This involves discretely connecting the transparent antenna to the customers’ existing CPE and is installed behind existing windows treated with WAVETHRU technology. This setup captures external 5G signals and boosts 5G network performance in terms of coverage and speed.
- WAVEATTOCH: This solution enhances outdoor network densification by installing glass antennas indoors, positioning them behind the glazing. This approach supports 4G/5G network expansion in urban areas, addressing challenges such as data traffic growth and compliance with electromagnetic field standards.
Remarking on the rollout of the project, Zain KSA’s Vice President of Engineering, Eng. Mohammed Abdulaziz Al Nujaidi, stated, “Building on our 5G leadership and in line with Saudi Vision 2030, Zain KSA is committed to driving more innovation by integrating cutting-edge solutions into our 5G network. By implementing this technology in collaboration with industry leaders like Nokia and AGC, we aim to provide individuals and enterprises across the Kingdom with access to the latest advancements, empowering them to get more out of our expansive 5G network. The project endorses our efforts to support Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation, particularly in urban spaces, and also reflects our dedication to accelerating the rollout of the latest technologies with minimal visual impact on the city landscape.”
Next-Level Connectivity
Zain KSA reported that the Proof of Concept for the transparent glass antenna, when connected to the company’s Customer Premises Equipment (CPE), demonstrated significant improvements in network performance, confirming its potential in addressing indoor signal challenges. Key outcomes include:
- Signal Strength: Improved by 22%
- Download Throughput: Enhanced by 36%
- Upload Throughput: Increased by 57%
- Signal-to-Interference-Plus-Noise Ratio (SINR): Boosted by nearly 270%
These results validate the glass antenna’s ability to strengthen the network’s stability and resilience, supporting Zain KSA’s commitment to providing customers with an exceptional 5G experience.
Potential Impacts
Zain KSA is leveraging this technology to accelerate the rollout of its 5G network across Saudi Arabia, fostering a digital economy and a vibrant tech-savvy society. This innovative solution addresses future connectivity demands efficiently, providing users with improved data throughputs that translate into a better customer experience. By integrating glass antenna technology, Zain KSA ensures reliable network performance, replacing traditional equipment and preserving the visual appeal of the urban landscape.
Bernard Monville, Head of WAVE by AGC, stated, “Glass antennas can be installed at lower heights and require less transmission power to cover dense urban areas; this will enable Zain KSA and Nokia to deploy the transparent glass antennas to comply with the world’s most stringent EMF standards.”
Mohammad Al Tayeh, Customer Team Head at Nokia, said, “Nokia’s state-of-the-art 5G product integrates seamlessly with the WAVE by AGC antenna, allowing Zain KSA to further expand and enhance its network capabilities. The collaboration between Zain KSA, AGC Glass Europe, and Nokia marks a significant milestone in driving next-generation telecom solutions in the Middle East region.”
The Next Steps
Zain KSA plans to build on the success of this Proof of Concept by exploring opportunities for broader deployment across key locations in Saudi Arabia. The company plans to work closely with regulators and industry partners to ensure a smooth rollout of the glass antenna technology in the near future. The focus remains on developing innovative, sustainable solutions that address the increasing demand for high-performance 5G networks while maintaining the allure of urban and residential spaces.
Zain KSA’s Vice President of Engineering, Eng. Mohammed Abdulaziz Al Nujaidi, commented, “This Proof of Concept highlights the importance of innovation and collaboration. By integrating advanced solutions, such as the transparent glass antenna, we are addressing connectivity challenges while paving the way for a hyper-connected, sustainable future. We look forward to further partnerships that will enable us to deliver enhanced 5G experiences to people and businesses across the Kingdom.”
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