Bangladesh Enters 5G Era: Robi and GP Begin Rollout

Bangladesh has officially entered the 5G network era as Robi and Grameenphone start their nationwide rollout. This milestone is a big step for the country’s digital future, bringing super-fast internet, very low delay, and smarter connectivity. 5G networks will support AI-powered services and help industries like healthcare, education, and fintech grow stronger. It will also change the way people use technology in daily life and business. With Robi and GP leading the way, millions of Bangladeshis are about to see a major boost in digital transformation, taking the nation closer to its Smart Bangladesh 2041 vision.

Who will launch 5G and where?

Robi Axiata has officially launched 5G in some selected areas like Fakirapul (Paltan), Dhaka University, Moghbazar in Dhaka, Khulshi in Chattogram, and Sagar Dighi Par in Sylhet. This is the first real commercial 5G service in Bangladesh.

Just a few hours later, Grameenphone also announced 5G in all divisional headquarters, making the next generation network available to even more people across the country.

What’s the pricing and performance story?

Both operators confirmed that there will be no extra charges. If you have a 5G-supported phone and you are in a covered area, you will automatically get internet speeds 10 to 15 times faster than 4G using your current plan.

Robi’s internal tests showed a maximum speed of 622 Mbps, while normal usage ranged between 70 and 220 Mbps. Grameenphone recorded download speeds of 551 Mbps and upload speeds of 64 Mbps during controlled tests.

How Fast Will 5G Grow in Bangladesh?

Robi’s Ambitious Rollout

By November 2025, Robi aims to roll out 5G on over 200 towers while keeping the price unchanged from 4G. By the end of 2026, the operator targets 800 to 1,000 active 5G sites across the country, still at the same cost as 4G.

Grameenphone (GP) Moves Fast Too

Promises to deliver 5G speeds without extra charges, available on existing 4G packages. Early speed tests show that users are getting 10 to 15 times faster internet than before. In some areas, download speeds reached around 551 Mbps for Grameenphone and up to 622 Mbps for Robi. On average, speeds range between 70 to 220 Mbps depending on location. In comparison, current 4G speeds in Bangladesh usually stay between 10 to 30 Mbps.

What does this mean for Bangladesh?

5G will bring more than just faster internet. People can expect quick improvements in smart city projects, Internet of Things (IoT) devices, remote healthcare, AR/VR, cloud gaming, modern farming technology, and smarter transport systems. The benefits will reach areas from online medical services to digital business solutions. This move also supports the Digital Bangladesh 2041 vision, helping build a stronger digital economy.

How broad is Bangladesh’s digital footprint already?

By June 2025, Bangladesh had 188.5 million mobile subscribers and more than 133 million internet users. The country achieved full 4G coverage, and smartphone use rose to 73 percent. Despite this growth, average mobile internet speeds were around 23 Mbps, much lower than the global average. The rollout of 5G is expected to close this gap and offer faster connectivity across the country.

Framing the Rollout: A Strategic Digital Leap

Bangladesh's 5G rollout is more than just a technology upgrade. This is a major step towards building a strong digital infrastructure. In 2022, the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) held a spectrum auction, offering 190 MHz of spectrum for $1.23 billion. Operators were required to launch 5G within six months. But the 2024 guidelines delayed some clear rollout rules, causing operators to move cautiously.

At the same time, the BTRC is preparing for satellite internet services. In 2024, it formed a committee to create rules for non-geostationary satellite orbit operators, like Starlink, to improve internet access in remote areas. Starlink has already applied for a license, which is an important step in reducing the digital divide.

These efforts are part of the government’s Vision Smart Bangladesh 2041, which focuses on a strong digital infrastructure to support the Fourth Industrial Revolution. By combining 5G and satellite technology, Bangladesh is not just adopting new tech, but also preparing for a digitally inclusive future.

What Tech-Savvy Readers Should Track Now? 

5G at 4G Pricing

Both Robi and Grameenphone have started 5G services without charging extra, keeping the same prices as 4G. The move is aimed at encouraging more people to use 5G by removing financial barriers. Robi plans to set up 800 to 1,000 5G sites across the country by the end of 2026, while Grameenphone has already started services in all divisional headquarters and is expanding further.

Speed Unlocks New Possibilities

The faster speeds of 5G networks make advanced technologies like augmented reality, telemedicine, and real-time cloud applications more practical. These services could transform areas like healthcare, education, and entertainment by providing quicker and more reliable internet.

Rapid Rollout Pace

The rollout of 5G is moving fast, with Robi focusing first on busy areas in Dhaka, Chattogram, and Sylhet, before expanding nationwide. Grameenphone is targeting a broader reach, starting with divisional cities.

Device Penetration

By mid-2025, around 6 to 7 percent of mobile users in Bangladesh will have 5G-capable devices. That number is expected to rise as more affordable 5G smartphones become available, especially through local production.

Satellite Link Interplay

The combination of 5G and satellite internet services like Starlink is improving connectivity in remote areas. Starlink provides high-speed internet where traditional broadband is limited, supporting the 5G network and giving more people access to fast internet.

Final Thoughts

Bangladesh is entering a new digital era. The recent 5G rollout and satellite-linked projects are more than just network upgrades. They are a step toward a connected, technology-driven future that can change industries, improve public services, and make everyday digital life easier.

Robi and Grameenphone are not just turning on new networks; they are paving the way for smart cities, faster services, and global connectivity. For businesses, innovators, and tech enthusiasts, now is the time to adapt, use new tools, and join Bangladesh’s rapidly growing digital world.