This new HFCL tech could change internet connectivity forever—and it’s here now

HFCL Limited has launched two Unlicensed Band Radio (UBR) products at the India Mobile Congress 2024 in New Delhi, focusing on sustainable and high-speed wireless connectivity. These new products promise to tackle the growing demands of modern network environments while maintaining eco-efficiency—offering the best solution to telecom providers seeking affordable and scalable backhauling and rural broadband systems.

Two Innovative Solutions for the Future of Connectivity

HFCL’s product unveiling featured two distinct UBR models designed for different applications: a 1 Gbps Small Form Factor UBR and a 2 Gbps Point-to-Multipoint UBR. Both products have been engineered to support 4G and 5G network backhauling, aiming to replace traditional microwave and fibre-based solutions by being significantly more cost-effective and power-efficient.

The new 1 Gbps UBR is touted as an efficient, compact, and powerful option for quick deployment across urban and rural areas. HFCL claims that the product offers advanced features such as low latency, minimal jitter, bandwidth aggregation, and long-range connectivity, making it ideal for extending coverage to hard-to-reach locations. Meanwhile, the 2 Gbps Point-to-Multipoint UBR aims to provide reliable and extensive connectivity in rural environments, enabling high-bandwidth internet for multiple villages from a single fibre Point-of-Presence (PoP).

The products were designed with sustainability in mind. The advanced 4G/5G backhauling solutions are not only capable of delivering fibre-like speeds but are also set to slash the overall Total Cost of Ownership (TCO) by almost 90% compared to conventional microwave or E-band solutions, according to HFCL. Additionally, the rural UBR consumes only one-third of the power that traditional microwave systems require, marking a significant move toward energy-efficient telecom solutions.

Massive Deployment and Key Market Strategy

The newly launched UBR solutions are not the first of their kind from HFCL. The company previously introduced UBR technology in 2020 and has since deployed over 500,000 units globally, reaching major markets across India, the UK, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The products have successfully demonstrated their capability to deliver dependable, large-scale connectivity across both rural and urban settings.

Speaking at the launch event, Mahendra Nahata, Managing Director of HFCL, stated that the company is proud to be the first to introduce these indigenously-developed UBR solutions. He noted that these products are positioned as game-changers for 5G network expansion and a significant milestone in addressing the unique connectivity challenges faced by telco customers globally.

HFCL aims to strengthen its presence in global markets with these innovative solutions. The company’s strategy focuses on offering highly sustainable, state-of-the-art network products that help telcos cut down both capital expenditure (CAPEX) and operational expenditure (OPEX).

Expert Opinion on Industry Impact

According to telecom analysts, the launch of HFCL’s advanced UBR solutions could be a major catalyst for closing the digital divide in rural India. He pointed out that energy efficiency and ease of deployment are the key features that distinguish these products in an increasingly competitive market. The analysts added that by making broadband access more accessible and less dependent on traditional wired infrastructure, HFCL is paving the way for faster rural digitisation, in line with the government’s vision of digital inclusivity.

Furthermore, an analyst explained that the affordability of HFCL’s UBR solutions could drive interest from small and mid-tier telecom operators who may have been hesitant to deploy fibre or microwave systems due to the high associated costs. “It provides an opportunity for smaller players to enter underserved markets with minimal upfront investment,” he remarked.

Stock Sentiment Analysis

HFCL is listed on both the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) under the ticker HFCL. Following the announcement of the new UBR products, market sentiment has shown positive movement, with shares trading higher as investor enthusiasm builds around the potential impact of these innovations on HFCL’s market share. Analysts are optimistic that these new products will enhance revenue growth by attracting more clients and strengthening HFCL’s global positioning in the telecom market.