Cellcom invests $1M in 5G network

Cellcom invested nearly $1 million on its 5G infrastructure by purchasing two spectrums in a recent Federal Communication Commission auction.

The Green Bay-based company secured winning bids for 24 GHz and 28GHz spectrum in the FCC’s first-ever auction of millimeter-wave (mmWave) spectrum licenses. These types of spectrum are key in delivering the fastest version of 5G networks.

“Successfully competing in 5G requires the right combination of coverage, network and devices. Securing additional millimeter-wave spectrum is preparing Cellcom for 5G coverage and meeting the future needs of our customers,” said Cellcom CEO Mark Naze.

Cellcom spent $928,550 for 28 GHz spectrum licenses in six Wisconsin counties: Buffalo, Calumet, Dunn, Pepin, Price and Sawyer. In the second auction of millimeter wave spectrum earmarked for 5G, the company invested $51,000 and secured two 24 GHz licenses in the state, which cover Sheboygan, Manitowoc, Waupaca and Waushara counties.

High-band spectrum like mmWave offers higher speeds and more capacity because more spectrum at these frequencies can be used. In addition to the newly acquired 24 GHz and 28 GHz licenses, Nsight — Cellcom’s parent company — has significant spectrum holdings throughout much of northeast Wisconsin that can be used as it deploys its 5G network.