After weather delays, Digicel finally launched 5G networks to customers in Apia for five sites on Monday and will look at expanding to 15 more sites within the next 12 months.

Originally planned to launch on Monday 15 July, heavy downpours caused a delay in the event’s launch. 

Samoan customers with compatible 5G devices in and around the Levili Data Centre, FMFMII, NFP building, Tatte building and Frankie Mall will be among the first in Samoa to experience 5G speeds.

5G uses higher radio frequencies to carry information through the air making them less cluttered and allow for more information to be carried at a faster rate. 

Customers with compatible 5G devices will be able to access faster speeds allowing them to have better streaming, faster downloads, and enhanced gaming experiences.

Initial test results at the new 5G sites have average speeds of 550 to 600 megabits per second, with the full potential reaching up to 1 gigabytes per second. 

Speeds may vary due to factors such as location, distance from the mobile tower, local conditions, concurrent users, hardware and software configuration, and download and upload destination.

“This 5G launch isn’t just about faster speeds, it's about delivering an exceptional experience for our customers in Samoa,” said Anthony Seuseu, Chief Executive Officer of Digicel Samoa at the event launch today.

Digicel is the first telecommunications company to go live with 5G services in Samoa. 

“The launch of 5G opens a new chapter of possibilities and we are committed to continuously improving our network so that our customers can benefit from this transformative technology,” Mr. Seuseu said.