The 5G Speed Test and “Flexing” Trend
A trend has emerged, originating from reports by a reputable news outlet, stating that smartphone users in various provinces such as Ho Chi Minh City, Danang, Binh Duong, Thai Binh, Nghe An, and Nam Dinh, have been able to access 5G networks, with some claiming to have had access as early as late September, even though the technology has not yet been officially launched. This information sparked enthusiastic discussions and was quickly shared across social media platforms. Numerous Facebook accounts also confirmed the presence of 5G in multiple locations: “It’s been around in Hoan Kiem for a while,” “I got it at Hoan Kiem Lake,” and “I can catch 5G signals from every corner I turn to.” It is evident that the 5G network, provided by the country’s largest network operator, Viettel, is becoming increasingly accessible to users.
On a Facebook post featuring a bright red flyer introducing Viettel’s 5G, user Đ. N.D asked, “Is everyone ready?” The comments section was filled with confirmations of Viettel’s 5G presence in different areas: “Binh Duong is full of their advertisements everywhere,” “Times has full coverage now,” and “Look at this 5G speed test I did- it’s pretty fast.” User Đào Đức Mạnh couldn’t contain his excitement, eagerly asking, “For real? I’ve been waiting so long for this.”
On a popular forum for tech enthusiasts, a thread titled “Using Viettel’s REAL 5G in Ho Chi Minh City…” attracted significant attention, with forum members actively discussing coverage areas, 5G plans, and more.
Forum member Bukkybois12 shared: “135,000 VND for 4GB per day is such a great deal! In the EU, carriers offer 5GB per month for 280,000 VND, but calls and texts are free.”
XuyenViet2019 commented: “I use eSim, and I don’t need to register anything to access 5G. It’s available everywhere in my district.”
Midpham proudly displayed a screenshot of their 5G signal test, stating: “I live right next to a signal tower, so I’ve been enjoying free 5G for almost half a year now during their test period.”
When Can Vietnamese Users Expect to Experience “Real” 5G?
Following Viettel’s introduction of 5G plans and energetic preparations for the official launch, the remaining two major network operators have also announced their trial programs for October and November, stating that they are “focused on completing the necessary tasks to commercialize 5G.” One of these operators shared that their 5G trial will run from October 13 to November 15, and users with 5G-capable devices will receive an invitation to experience the service when they enter areas with 5G coverage.
Viettel is leading the way in 5G commercialization by meeting its commitment to deploy a sufficient number of base stations.
According to the regulations for enterprises participating in the 5G frequency band auction, network operators are required to, within two years of obtaining the license, install a minimum of 3,000 base stations and officially provide 5G services no later than 12 months after receiving the license.
It is understood that to officially launch 5G services, network operators must deploy a minimum of 30% of the committed number of base stations. To date, Viettel is the only operator that has met this condition. Recent announcements by some telecommunications companies regarding 5G signal detection and free usage are still considered experimental and do not signify the official commercialization of the technology.
Viettel’s 5G Takes Over the Streets of 63 Provinces and Cities
Last weekend, in celebration of the 20th anniversary of Viettel Mobile’s official entry into the mobile service market, vibrant promotional activities were held in all 63 provinces and cities. The ubiquitous presence of the 5G logo during these events signaled that the official launch of 5G services is imminent. Here are some images captured by our reporters:
A roadshow featuring Viettel’s 5G logo in Son La province
Hai Phong’s streets filled with Viettel’s 5G red
A 5G promotional bus spotted in Vinh city, Nghe An province
Hue, the ancient capital, also witnessed a flood of Viettel’s 5G branding
Viettel’s 5G presence in Vinh Long province
Viettel stores nationwide are prepared to offer 5G services and have designated experience zones for customers
