Claro Uruguay, part of América Móvil, a major Latin American telecommunications company, has been a significant player in the Uruguayan telecommunications industry. The company was originally known as CTI Móvil before rebranding to Claro in 2008. This rebranding was part of a broader strategy that included Argentina and Paraguay, with an investment of over US$20 million to expand GSM and 3G coverage, develop new services, and open new customer service centers. Claro Uruguay has consistently invested in its network infrastructure to enhance service quality and expand its customer base. As of 2023, Claro Uruguay was recognised for its extensive coverage and reliable service, sharing the Availability award with Movistar, with both achieving scores of 99-99.2% for 3G or better service availability.
Country
Uruguay
Type
Mobile Network Operator
Ownership
América Móvil
Claro Logo

3G Network

Claro Uruguay launched its 3G services following the rebranding from CTI Móvil in November 2007. The company invested significantly in expanding its 3G network to improve coverage and service quality, launching HSPA+ in November 2011. The 3G network operated on the B2 band, providing enhanced mobile data services to its users. However, in line with global trends towards newer technologies, Claro Uruguay planned to shut down its 3G network by December 31, 2025. This shutdown was part of a broader strategy to transition to more advanced technologies such as 4G and 5G, which offer superior speed and connectivity.

Network Frequency Band Status
B2 (1900 MHz)
Active
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 3G Network
Launch

4G Network

Claro Uruguay launched its 4G LTE network in February 2014 to provide faster and more reliable mobile data services. The company participated in several spectrum auctions to secure the necessary frequencies for its 4G network. In a significant auction organised by the Regulatory Unit of Communications Services (URSEC) on August 14, 2017, Claro acquired 20 MHz in the 700 MHz band for $20.2 million and 20 MHz in the AWS band for $15 million. These acquisitions were part of Uruguay's efforts to release Digital Dividend frequencies, contributing to the further development of 4G services in the region. Claro's 4G network was recognised for its consistent performance, meeting the minimum recommended thresholds for HD video, group video conference calls, and gaming in 77.8% of users’ tests as of May 2023.

4G Frequency Bands
Network Frequency Band Max. Channel Bandwidth Status Known EARFCNs
B4 (1700 MHz)
20
Active
2350
B28 (700 MHz)
Active
9410
B66 (1700 MHz)
Active
66936
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 4G Network
Launch

5G Network

Claro Uruguay began its journey into 5G technology with network trials in the 28 GHz band. These trials were authorised by URSEC and involved testing the interoperability with other networks and assessing risks of interference. Claro adapted its core network and utilised equipment from Finnish vendor Nokia for these trials. On May 9, 2023, Claro participated in a 5G spectrum auction held by URSEC, acquiring 1×100 MHz of TDD spectrum in the 3.5GHz band for USD28.10 million. Claro was required to deploy at least 70 base stations within a year and have a minimum of two base stations in all of Uruguay’s 19 departments within three years.

Network Frequency Band Max. Channel Bandwidth Status
n78 (3500 MHz)
100
Active
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 5G Network
Launch