Digitel, a prominent mobile telecommunications provider in Venezuela, has been a significant player in the country's telecom sector. Established in 1997, the company initially covered only the central region of Venezuela, reaching approximately 44% of the population. In 2006, Digitel was acquired by Telvenco, a company of the Cisneros Group, from Telecom Italia to improve its debt position. This acquisition included a merger with other GSM networks, expanding Digitel's coverage to the entire country. The company has been known for its technological advancements and extensive network coverage, positioning itself as a major operator in Venezuela's telecommunications landscape.
Country
Venezuela
Type
Mobile Network Operator
Digitel venezuela logo

3G Network

Digitel launched its 3G WCDMA network in March 2009, becoming the fastest provider in Venezuela at the time. The network operated on the UMTS frequency band B8 (900 MHz). This deployment allowed Digitel to offer enhanced communication, data, information, and entertainment services across the country. The network was upgraded to HSPA+ in 2012, and in 2013 added B3 (1800 MHz).

    Network Frequency Band Status
    Active
    Active
    Date Event Subtype
    Launch of 3G Network
    Launch

    4G Network

    Digitel was the first operator in Venezuela to deploy an LTE network, launching its LTE1800 service on July 31, 2013, for post-paid consumers and business users. The full commercial launch occurred on September 9, 2013. The LTE network utilised Band 3 (1800 MHz), a widely used frequency band for LTE deployments globally, supporting both FDD and TDD configurations. This deployment facilitated international roaming for mobile broadband services and established LTE capabilities in major cities such as Caracas, Maracay, and Valencia. Digitel's LTE network was further enhanced with the adoption of Ericsson's technology for a 4G overhaul in 2019, aiming to improve network performance and coverage.

      4G Frequency Bands
      Network Frequency Band Max. Channel Bandwidth Status Known EARFCNs
      20
      Active
      1300
      Date Event Subtype
      Launch of 4G Network
      Launch

      5G Network

      Digitel began conducting 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) service trials in June 2024 in the states of Nueva Esparta and Barinas, using the 3.5 GHz band. These trials aimed to enhance connectivity and browsing experiences in remote and rural areas, with a goal to connect 400,000 homes with high-capacity and quality connections at unprecedented speeds. The company adapted 20 base stations for the pilot, following clearance from the telecommunications regulator Conatel. Digitel's spectrum renewal in May 2024 included modernizing its entire network, digitising processes, and virtualizing its platform in preparation for the implementation of 5G technology. As of the latest updates, Digitel has not yet launched a commercial 5G service, but it remains a key player in advancing Venezuela's telecommunications infrastructure.

        Date Event Subtype