Thailand’s leading digital infrastructure provider, AIS, has officially ushered in a new era of connectivity by launching the region’s first “5G-ADVANCED” network, setting a global benchmark for speed and intelligence.
Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited (AIS) reached a historic milestone for the telecommunications industry by deploying Southeast Asia’s first “5G-ADVANCED” network standard. This next-level infrastructure represents a significant leap forward, moving beyond traditional connectivity into the realm of truly intelligent networks. By harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence and global partnerships, AIS aims to redefine the standard for digital experiences across Thailand.
The launch of AIS 5G-ADVANCED is designed to elevate the country’s digital infrastructure to support the evolving demands of the digital economy. This network evolution is not merely about incremental speed upgrades but about creating a robust, modern platform that links people, businesses, and government agencies seamlessly. As the first operator in the region to adopt these advanced standards, AIS is positioning Thailand as a central hub for technological innovation.
This strategic advancement is built upon three core pillars: Partnership, AI, and Innovation. By integrating global network intelligence with continuous technological development, AIS is laying a comprehensive foundation for the eventual transition toward 6G technology. The network serves as a vital artery of connectivity, ensuring that Thailand remains competitive on a global scale while delivering a superior digital experience to millions of users.
Harnessing AI and Carrier Aggregation for Limitless Network Speed
The technical core of the AIS 5G-ADVANCED network lies in its sophisticated Carrier Aggregation technology, specifically utilizing both 5G SA Downlink 3CC and 2CC configurations. This innovation allows the network to combine multiple frequency bands—including the 700 MHz, 2100 MHz, and 2600 MHz bands—to work together as a single, high-capacity pipeline. The result is a network that functions with unprecedented smoothness and stability, catering to high-demand digital lifestyles.
Performance metrics reveal a staggering improvement over standard 5G networks, with download speeds increasing by up to 1.5 times through the 3CC and 2CC downlink technology. Furthermore, the network significantly enhances data transmission efficiency for creators and businesses, boosting upload speeds by up to 2 times via 5G SA Uplink 2CC. These capabilities ensure that high-definition video streaming, online gaming, and cloud-based professional work are more responsive than ever before.
Beyond raw speed, AIS is integrating Artificial Intelligence into its network traffic management through a sophisticated “Autonomous Network” system. This AI-driven architecture enables the infrastructure to analyze, adapt, and respond to real-time usage conditions autonomously, ensuring optimal performance even during peak times. This intelligent management marks a departure from static network configurations, allowing the system to self-optimize and maintain a consistent, high-quality connection for all users.
Strategic Rollout and the Vision for a National Digital Infrastructure
AIS has already begun the phased deployment of these advanced services, focusing first on high-traffic urban centers to maximize immediate impact. Currently, the 5G SA Downlink 3CC technology is operational in the Sathon and Bang Rak districts, with a comprehensive expansion plan targeting the wider Bangkok metropolitan region by 2026. Meanwhile, the 5G SA Downlink 2CC service has already achieved broad coverage across Bangkok and major city centers nationwide.
The expansion of upload capabilities is also progressing rapidly, with 5G SA Uplink 2CC currently available in major urban areas throughout the Northeastern region and Bangkok. AIS expects this specific enhancement to be available in all major city centers across Thailand by the end of 2026. This systematic rollout ensures that both individual consumers and industrial enterprises can leverage the power of 5G-Advanced to drive their own digital transformations.
Mr. Wasit Wattanasap, the Head of Nationwide Operations and Support Business Unit at AIS, emphasized the broader significance of this launch for the nation’s future. He noted that network development is no longer just about coverage or the number of base stations, but about building new capabilities for the country. By transforming 5G into an intelligent digital platform, AIS is providing the essential foundation required to drive Thailand’s economy and society toward sustainable long-term growth.
“AIS’ key mission is to strengthen Thailand’s digital infrastructure, making it more robust, modern, and ready to support the continued growth of the digital economy,” stated Mr. Wasit Wattanasap, Head of Nationwide Operations and Support Business Unit at AIS.
Mr. Wattanasap further explained that the integration of partnership, AI, and innovation is what allows AIS to deliver a clearly superior connectivity experience. He believes that a strong mobile network serves as the lifeblood of the modern economy, connecting every sector from government agencies to individual citizens. This vision of an “Intelligent Infrastructure” is what drives AIS to constantly push the boundaries of what is possible in the telecommunications sector.
The executive concluded by highlighting that the goal is not just speed, but the delivery of the best possible digital experience for every use case. Whether for a student attending a virtual class or a large-scale factory implementing automated systems, the 5G-ADVANCED network is designed to be the backbone of their success. AIS remains committed to its role as a national digital infrastructure provider, ensuring Thailand moves confidently into a future defined by intelligent connectivity.
Enhancing Digital Safety and the Future of Consumer Experience
While speed and performance are the headline features of 5G-ADVANCED, AIS is equally focused on the security and safety of its users within the digital ecosystem. The company is actively applying its AI capabilities to bolster customer protection through the AIS SAFE CONNECT initiative. This system provides real-time alerts for suspicious incoming calls, helping to mitigate the growing threat of digital scams and fraudulent activities.
In addition to automated AI protection, AIS has established direct channels for reporting threats, such as the *1185# service and the 1185 hotline. These tools work in close collaboration with the police to identify and block suspicious phone numbers and SMS messages. By integrating safety into the core of its digital infrastructure, AIS ensures that customers can use the high-speed 5G-ADVANCED network with greater peace of mind and confidence
For consumers looking to access this new era of speed, the experience is signified by the “5G+” symbol appearing on their mobile screens. This symbol indicates that the user is connected to the enhanced network with improved stability and responsiveness. Access to these advanced speeds does not require an additional package subscription, provided the user is in a service area with a compatible device and an appropriate existing plan.
A Sustainable Path Toward Thailand’s Economic Competitiveness
AIS currently serves a massive customer base of over 52 million users across its various business groups, including mobile, broadband, and enterprise services. With a mobile user base of 46.8 million and a network operating on a high frequency band of 1460 MHz, the company is uniquely positioned to lead this technological shift. The launch of 5G-ADVANCED is a testament to AIS’ commitment to using its vast resources to elevate the quality of life for all Thai people.
The transition to intelligent networks is expected to provide a critical boost to Thailand’s competitiveness on the international stage. By offering an infrastructure that supports next-generation digital lifestyles and complex enterprise use cases, AIS is helping to attract investment and foster local innovation. This milestone marks just the beginning of a larger journey toward a fully autonomous and intelligent digital future.
As the world looks toward 6G, the foundation being laid by AIS today will be instrumental in how the nation adapts to future technologies. The company continues to expand its capabilities across speed, stability, security, and intelligence to serve as a critical foundation for the digital economy. Through these efforts, AIS reinforces its status as a leading intelligent infrastructure provider, dedicated to driving Thailand’s digital transformation in a sustainable way.
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