In a strategic move to enhance connectivity and digitalization efforts, Telefonica Spain has made significant strides in extending its 5G coverage across Castilla-Leon, utilizing the 700 MHz band. This expansion, executed during the summer months, has seen the activation of numerous new nodes, benefiting communities in all nine provinces of the region. As of August’s end, more than 70 percent of Castilla-Leon now enjoys the benefits of mobile ultra-broadband coverage with 5G.
Breaking Down Telefonica’s 5G Expansion in Castilla-Leon
Telefonica’s dedication to bolstering 5G infrastructure in Castilla y Leon is a noteworthy accomplishment, considering the geographical complexity, vast coverage area, and diverse population sizes. The region encompasses both sizable towns with populations exceeding 20,000 and small communities with as few as 50 inhabitants. Telefonica’s substantial investment, totaling over 430 million in the last five years, underscores its commitment to bridging the digital divide and providing reliable connectivity to all.
Leveraging the Power of the 700 MHz Band
The choice of the 700 MHz band for 5G deployment proves to be a strategic move for Telefonica. This frequency range offers superior indoor penetration and supports low-latency communication, two crucial aspects for ensuring seamless 5G connectivity. In addition to the 700 MHz band, Movistar, Telefonica’s Spanish brand, also operates in the 3.5 GHz band, ideal for delivering high-speed data transmission, thereby complementing the extensive coverage provided by the 700 MHz band.
A Comprehensive Connectivity Approach
Telefonica has taken a holistic approach to connectivity in Castilla-Leon, intertwining various technologies to meet diverse needs. Extensive deployment of fiber optics in rural areas supplements the 5G infrastructure in the 700 MHz band. This comprehensive approach allows Telefonica to provide connectivity and support digitalization initiatives across the entire region effectively.
5G Expansion Across the Nine Provinces
Movistar’s summer 5G expansion initiative encompasses the activation of new nodes and broadened coverage in numerous municipalities across Castilla-Leon’s nine provinces:
- Avila: Towns like San Juan de Gredos, Ojos-Albos, Higuera de las Duenas, and Berzal de Zapardiel now enjoy 5G connectivity.
- Burgos: 5G has been rolled out in places like Barbadillo del Mercado, Santa Gadea del Sil, Gumiel de Izan, and Villariezo, along with reinforcement in Burgos city.
- Leon: Expansion has reached over 60 municipalities, including Brazuelo, Acebedo, San Cristobal de la Polantera, and many others.
- Palencia: 5G coverage now extends to places such as Torquemada, Astudillo, Espinosa de Villagonzalo, and more.
- Salamanca: Towns like Belena, Macotera, Linares de RiofrIo, Casillas de las Flores, and Las Veguillas now have 5G coverage.
- Segovia: Torre Val de San Pedro, Otero de los Herreros, and Villacastin are now part of the 5G network.
- Soria: 5G coverage reaches municipalities like Villar del Rio, Burgos de Osma-Ciudad de Osma, and Medinaceli.
- Valladolid: 5G is now available in Rabano, Mayorga, Quintanilla de Onssimo, and other places.
- Zamora: Fonfria, Hermisende, and Muelas del Pan, among others, have received 5G coverage.
This list is just a glimpse of Telefonica’s commitment to expanding 5G access across Castilla-Leon. With this rollout, Movistar’s presence now spans all provinces in the region, catering to communities of varying sizes and needs.
