# 5G Mobile Phone Network Introduction in Colombia
## 7 5G Network Mobile Deployment in Colombia
### 5G Pilot Tests in Colombia  
The electromagnetic spectrum is a natural resource and public good in Colombia, subject to regulations and laws that guarantee equal access opportunities to avoid monopolies and promote the development and investment of technologies that make use of it [55; 56; 57]. In this sense, with the resolution [58], the call for pilot tests of 5G technology was launched to obtain preliminary information and evaluate future challenges under real conditions. In total, 76 expressions of interest were received from more than 52 entities and 24 individuals. \begin{table}
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**Development and Publication of the 5G Plan** & **ANE -MinTIC** & **ANE-MinTIC** & **Communications Regulation** & **Analysis of Frequency Band Management Mechanisms** & **MinTIC** \\ \hline Q4-2019 & Q2-2020 & Q3-2020 & Q4-2020 & Q2-2021 & Q3-2021 \\ \hline MinTIC & - & Identify radio spectrum requirements in accordance with World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC-19) Frequency Release Resolution & Call for the development of applications or use cases in 5G technology & Call for the development of adjustment needs & & \\ \hline \hline \end{tabular}
\end{table} 
Table 4: Colombia’s MinTIC timeline for 5G implementation [37]. Figure 3 details the frequency bands requested during the call. The 3.3 GHz-3.7 GHz band reached the highest number of interested parties (27) for the configuration of future 5G services in Colombia. Nevertheless, there were 56 applications for mm-W because they plan to offer 5G technology services that demand high bandwidth, low latency, and a high data rate. Due to mm-W having high bandwidth, they can accommodate more connected devices in a 5G deployment, offering not only greater speed but also better quality of service. Permits for the radio spectrum use were granted for technical tests or approval of equipment for a period of 6 months, with the possibility of extending this period once for a further 6 months. The pilot tests of 5G mobile technology in Colombia allow MinTIC, the ANE, and the CRC (Communications Regulation Commission) to have greater knowledge of aspects related to the efficient use of frequencies for the deployment of 5G networks and services, as a reference for possible measures linked to the deployment of these networks. The permits for the 5G pilot tests are not commercial in nature and are issued under the principle of non-interference without representing a risk of affecting sensitive communications, such as aeronautical radio navigation, radio astronomy, search/rescue operations, and mobile communications, among others. The resolution [59] established the schedule for requesting pilot test permits and setting up test beds in the field of 5G mobile technology and use cases in the following frequency bands: 3.3-3.7 GHz, 24.25-27.5 GHz, 37-43.5 GHz, 45.5-47 GHz, and 47.2-48.2 GHz [56], which was modified in its dates (Table 5) by the resolution [60] due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Figure 3: Number of stakeholders by frequency bands [58]. Figure 4 sets out the number of entities associated with future 5G-related projects that responded to the call [56]. Smart Cities was the one with the highest demand. A smart city is first and foremost a connected city, which assumes connectivity without limitations for things as well as people, with 5G being the standard upon which a connected city must be built in order to efficiently manage security, transport, or health resources, improving the quality of life of citizens in terms of economy, access to services, and territorial sustainability. The licensed period for the 3.5 GHz band will be 20 years, extendable for an additional 20 years [61]. At the same time, MinTIC is focusing on the transition from 2G and 3G networks to 4G [62], expanding coverage in 3658 locations in Colombia's 32 departments.