Vodacom South Africa has successfully tested what it said is the world’s first integrated passive-active Massive Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) solution, unlocking greater flexibility for the company to add capacity and respond to growing demand for mobile data.

The technology, tested in partnership with Nokia through a pilot in the Western Cape, combines multiple antenna capabilities into a more compact configuration to enable Vodacom to make more efficient use of existing network sites.

The successful on-site testing demonstrated that the technology can be deployed at sites where limited space or existing infrastructure makes conventional network expansion difficult.

This will increase network capacity at sites where physical and structural constraints can limit network expansion as Vodacom continues the evolution of its 4G and 5G network.

“As demand for mobile data continues to grow, we need to continuously evolve our network to deliver the quality and consistency of experience our customers expect,” said Vodacom South Africa technology director Beverly Ngwenya.

The solution supports dual-band Massive MIMO across the 2 600 MHz and 3 500 MHz spectrum bands, enabling Vodacom to use its spectrum more efficiently and deploy network capacity where it is needed most.

These benefits are particularly valuable in high-demand urban areas, where physical space can be limited and conventional network expansion more complex.

Vodacom will now deploy the solution across its existing network at identified sites where additional capacity is needed.

The upgrade will make more efficient use of existing infrastructure while helping to improve network performance for customers.

This means a more consistent 4G and 5G experience for customers, with smoother streaming, quicker downloads and improved network performance in areas where demand for connectivity is high.

This forms part of Vodacom’s continued investment in building a more resilient, efficient and future-ready network that enables more people to benefit from reliable, high-quality connectivity.

“The world-first deployment reflects Vodacom’s commitment to continuously evolving its network to meet South Africa’s changing connectivity needs. Innovations like this allow us to enhance our network in smarter and more efficient ways.”

By investing in a more efficient, scalable and future-ready network, Vodacom is helping to ensure customers can access the reliable, high-quality connectivity they increasingly depend on.

“Ultimately, this is about continuing to invest in the quality and resilience of our network and delivering on our purpose to connect for a better future,” Ngwenya concluded.