Vodafone Portugal, originally known as Telecel, Comunicações Pessoais, S.A., was founded in 1991. It was one of the pioneering companies in the telecommunications sector in Portugal, securing a license to operate GSM mobile networks in October 1991. The network officially went live on 18 October 1992. The company is a subsidiary of Vodafone Group Plc and has its headquarters at Avenida D. João II, Parque das Nações, Lisbon, Portugal. Over the years, Vodafone Portugal has been a significant player in the Portuguese telecommunications market, competing with other major operators like NOS and MEO. As of 2024, Vodafone Portugal continues to serve the Portuguese market with a range of telecommunications services including mobile networks, mobile broadband, and IPTV/Cable television.
Country
Portugal
Type
Mobile Network Operator
Ownership
Vodafone Group
Vodafone Albania Logo

3G Network

Vodafone Portugal launched its 3G network in March 2006, the first operator to do so in Portugal. This introduction allowed for enhanced data services, including mobile internet and video calling, which were not possible with the earlier 2G networks. The network was upgraded to HSPA+ in June 2009 and again to DC-HSPA+ in October 2010. However, with the evolution of mobile technology and the advent of 4G and 5G networks, Vodafone Portugal announced in July 2023 that it would begin the process of shutting down its 3G network starting in July 2024. This decision was part of a global trend to phase out older technologies in favour of more efficient and faster networks. The frequencies released from the 3G shutdown were planned to be reallocated to enhance the company's 4G and 5G services.

Network Frequency Band Status
B1 (2100 MHz)
Shut Down
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 3G Network
Launch

4G Network

Vodafone Portugal commenced its 4G LTE services in March 2012 (same day as competitors), utilising the 800 MHz and 2.6 GHz frequency bands. The introduction of 4G technology provided customers with significantly faster data speeds and improved network reliability. Over the years, Vodafone Portugal expanded its 4G network coverage and capabilities. By 2014, the company had launched LTE-Advanced services, offering speeds up to 225 Mbps by aggregating different frequency bands. This service was further extended to 300 Mbps in subsequent upgrades. The 4G network continued to evolve with the addition of new frequency bands, including LTE B1 (2100 MHz) and LTE B8 (900 MHz) in August 2024, enhancing coverage and service quality, particularly in indoor environments.

4G Frequency Bands
Network Frequency Band Max. Channel Bandwidth Status Known EARFCNs
B1 (2100 MHz)
20
Active
103
B3 (1800 MHz)
20
Active
1300
B7 (2600 MHz)
20
Active
2950
B8 (900 MHz)
Active
B20 (800 MHz)
10
Active
6300
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 4G Network
Launch

5G Network

Vodafone Portugal has been actively involved in the development and deployment of 5G technology. The company acquired spectrum necessary for 5G services following the auction approved by Portugal’s National Communications Authority (ANACOM) in December 2019. The auction included frequency bands such as 700 MHz, 900 MHz, 1800 MHz, 2100 MHz, 2600 MHz, and 3.6 GHz (n78). Vodafone Portugal began deploying its 5G network using the 5G NR frequency bands n28 (700 MHz) and n78 (3500 MHz) in December 2021, quickly launching a Standalone (SA) network mode.

Network Frequency Band Max. Channel Bandwidth Status Known EARFCNs
n28 (700 MHz)
10
Active
154570
n78 (3500 MHz)
90
Active
637632
Date Event Subtype
Launch of 5G Network
Launch