Bangladesh launches first MVNO SIM

For the first time in Bangladesh’s telecommunications sector, a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) SIM has been launched by the state-owned Bangladesh Telecommunications Company Limited (BTCL).

BTCL began a live pilot test of its MVNO service on Sunday February 8. Under this service, three key features are currently being offered: unlimited voice calls, unlimited data, and quad-play services. Authorities said the SIM will be made available to general customers very soon.

the Chief Adviser’s Special Assistant for Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology, Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, said that Bangladesh’s first BTCL MVNO SIM has become operational in a post on social media on February 3. He noted that successful provisioning has been completed for four events: voice calls, data calls, Alap-to-mobile network, Alap-to-Alap, and GIPON integration. Call tests were also conducted successfully.

He further said that on-site provisioning, activation, and test calls were observed at BTCL’s Gulistan/Ramna office. The live pilot of the MVNO service will begin on 8 February, and work is underway on triple-play services, which are expected to be launched simultaneously.

The Ministry of Posts, Telecommunications and Information Technology said in a notification that BTCL has, for the first time, launched an unlimited quad-play service on a trial basis through Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO) services. The initiative is being considered a significant milestone in digital connectivity and service innovation.

Under the service, customers will be able to enjoy unlimited voice calls, unlimited internet, and app-based IP calling service “Alap.” The offering also includes GPON connectivity, routers with unlimited internet access, and the popular OTT content platform Toffee. Through this initiative, quad-play services integrating unlimited voice, data, broadband, and digital content will be provided to users.

In the initial phase, BTCL is rolling out the service using the network of Teletalk Bangladesh Limited. BTCL was granted approval to operate an MVNO network on a trial basis on November 25 last year. Stakeholders believe that with the introduction of this modern technology, the state-owned organization has taken another step forward in enhancing customer services.