TIM has made its first 5G connection on its live network using a prototype handset, in its latest piece of research into next generation technology.
The operator held the trial at its Turin testbed using 5GNR technology and Ericsson’s Massive MIMO solution.
The demo was the first time in Italy that a smartphone powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X50 5G chipset was used.
The operator used a chunk of the 3.4-3.8GHz spectrum it acquired in the country’s recent auction.
It described the test as “a fundamental step towards the implementation of 5G in Italy to benefit TIM customers”.
In May, TIM held a similar demonstration of a prototype device connected to a 5G network, but this time in San Marino.
The operator is working with Nokia in the principality to turn the country into the first in Europe to offer 5G services.
The forthcoming network will operate on the 3.5Ghz and 26GHz bands.
Its latest trial in San Marino, held last month, set up 360 degree cameras on the roadside of a rally competition, allowing spectators to view the action through virtual reality headsets.