B44 (700 MHz)

Band 44 operates within the 703 to 803 MHz spectrum, employing a Time Division Duplexing (TDDTDD: A wireless communication technique that uses a single frequency band for both transmitting and receiving operations but separates these operations in time. In a TDD system, upstream (transmission from user equipment to base station) and downstream (transmission from base station to user equipment)…) configuration. Due to its lower frequency, Band 44 provides extensive coverage, making it particularly effective for wide area networks and ensuring connectivity in rural and remote regions. This range also allows for good building penetration in urban areas.

Formally ratified by the 3GPP in June 2012, this band was designated specifically for use in the Asia Pacific region. Its adoption aimed to harness the beneficial propagation characteristics of the 700 MHz spectrum and promote consistent LTE deployments across the participating countries. The band however failed to gain traction and is widely considered obsolete.