Asia Express - Data Communications
WiMAX Development in Asia November 22-28
November 26, 2010

- Taiwanese telecom operator Far EasTone and WiMAX carrier Global Mobile announced that the two companies will jointly provide free WiMAX roaming service starting from November 22, 2010 in Taiwan, according to a November 23, 2010 report by the Economic Daily News of Taiwan. It is reported that users in Taipei City, Taipei County, Hsinchu City, Hsinchu County, and Taichung City are able to enjoy the free roaming service for six months.

- Indonesian ID-WiBB announced on November 23, 2010 the launch of a WiMAX and Wi-Fi (Wireless-Fidelity) roaming facility to serve broadband service providers in Indonesia, according to the Marketwire. It is reported that the roaming facility will be operated by Aptilo Networks.

- Indian state-owned BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited) expects to receive 2,395 crore Rupees (US$525.2 million; US$1=45.6 Rupees) from the government to expand its WiMAX network deployment in rural India, according to the Economic Times. In October 2010, BSNL stated that with no fund support, the company plans to stop its WiMAX rollout in less profitable rural areas.