Telecom operators have activated more than 300 5G sites across Pakistan, marking a key step in the country’s next-generation network rollout, according to officials from the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA).

The deployment is focused on major urban and sensitive areas, including Islamabad’s Red Zone, Blue Area, and Parliament Lodges, where multiple 5G sites are now operational.

PTA sources said that Jazz has launched 180 5G sites nationwide, while Zong has activated 150 sites. Ufone is expected to join the rollout after completing imports of required 5G equipment and devices. Operators are also required to update their official coverage maps to reflect the expanding 5G services.

Alongside the 5G expansion, improvements in 4G services are anticipated. Following the spectrum auction, 4G speeds have been capped at 20 Mbps, while initial 5G speeds are set at 50 Mbps. However, full 5G functionality remains limited as major smartphone makers such as Apple and Samsung have yet to release necessary software updates.

So far, 103 mobile brands have enabled 5G support across 2,254 devices, offering early access to users. Despite this, experts say a complete 5G experience will depend on future updates and broader device compatibility.

PTA officials estimate that it could take up to two years for the 5G network to fully stabilize as infrastructure continues to expand nationwide. In the coming months, additional shipments of 5G equipment are expected, with further improvements in 4G performance likely within five to six months.

The PTA recently concluded the 5G spectrum auction, allocating 480 MHz out of the available 597 MHz, paving the way for broader network deployment across Pakistan.