In the Philippines, Globe is pioneering the world’s first next generation META AAU. This new Active Antenna Unit combines cutting-edge hardware and software to boost 5G network performance and efficiency.
Globe, as one of the early adopters of the META AAU, can easily expand 5G coverage and capacity while consuming less power to meet the growing demand for complex 5G applications. This will enable the company to improve customer service while also protecting the environment.
Customers have high expectations for 5G technology, which promises faster, more reliable, and uninterrupted connectivity. At the same time, many telcos, such as Globe, have pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, prompting them to seek out green products and solutions.
The META AAU introduces an Extremely Large Antenna Array, which is twice the size of a standard unit. To improve coverage and integration, ELAA combines ultra-light integrated array and signal direct injection feeding.
An Adaptive High-Resolution Turbo algorithm is used in the software to enable precise, dynamic, and targeted beamforming, significantly improving user experience and cell capacity.
The META AAU is also an effective energy-saving device. It enables base stations to provide the same level of coverage to cell-edge users while using less transmit power. When compared to conventional AAUs, this reduces energy consumption by approximately 30%.
Adopting such innovative and energy-efficient technologies is consistent with Globe’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which emphasize the importance of infrastructure and innovation as critical drivers of economic growth and development in SDG No. 9.
“We are excited over this META AAU, especially now that we are aggressively rolling out 5G across the country. This will allow us to provide a more enjoyable experience to our customers using environment-friendly solutions and reduce energy costs. This is a win-win proposition for our customers, the business, and the planet,” said Joel Agustin, Globe SVP and Head of Network Planning and Engineering, Network Technical Group.
From January to June of this year, Globe logged over two million devices in its 5G network, indicating that many customers are already using 5G. 5G outdoor coverage is available in at least 96% of the National Capital Region and 85% of key cities in Visayas and Mindanao.
Globe has set aside P89 billion in capital expenditures for 2022 in order to build more 5G sites and in-building solutions, upgrade cell towers to 4G LTE, add more 4G cell sites, and lay down more fiber-to-the-home lines.