Tigo Guatemala opens ‘first’ 5G experience center

Tigo (Millicom) activated what it claims to be Guatemala’s first 5G network, at the Cayalá Experience Center, where visitors can use video games and virtual reality simulators powered by the technology, in addition to compatible smartphones.

The company plans to open similar centers in Miraflores and in Oakland Mall.

In a second phase, the company will enable 5G for all Tigo users with compatible smartphones in the country, although so far, only three Samsung devices have been 5G certified.

Its website and social media posts suggest national roll-out will be gradual, starting in certain areas of the capital.

Last year, Millicom acquired the remaining 45% stake in the Tigo Guatemala joint venture for US$2.2bn in cash.

As part of this agreement, Millicom committed to investing US$1bn in the country over the next five years, according to local media.

The company recently announced a US$700mn investment to expand and maintain its mobile and broadband networks in Guatemala, Honduras and El Salvador over the next two years.

Tigo is the main mobile operator in Guatemala in a market with just two competitors. At the end of 2021, the company had 11.8mn customers, 53% of the market, followed by Claro (América Móvil), according to figures from regulator SIT.

The Guatemala operation represents 26% of Millicom’s revenues and 36% of Ebitda, according to Millicom’s Q1 figures. bnamericas