Nearly 80% of mobile phones in Pakistan already support the 2300 MHz and 2600 MHz frequency bands necessary for 5G operation, sources in the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) told ProPakistani.

These mid bands are a key part of the Next Generation Mobile Services (NGMS)/5G spectrum auction, which is expected to take place by the end of February 2026.

As Pakistan moves closer to its first-ever 5G spectrum auction, sources within the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) say the process is expected to significantly improve mobile data performance across the country.

The government has officially designated 2025–26 as Pakistan’s national transition period for 5G. In line with this, the PTA issued the Information Memorandum (IM) on January 9, 2026. The IM details the auction rules, available spectrum blocks, and eligibility requirements, and allows bidders around 45 days to complete the required documentation.

The auction is expected to include around 597.2 MHz of spectrum below 6 GHz, covering the 700, 1800, 2100, 2300, 2600, and 3500 MHz frequency bands.

PTA sources addded the release of additional spectrum will not only support 5G but also lead to a major improvement in existing 4G services. After the auction, average 4G data speeds are expected to rise from the current 4 Mbps to about 20–25 Mbps, especially in urban areas where network congestion is high.

The availability of new mid-band spectrum will help operators expand capacity and improve user experience even before full-scale 5G deployment begins.

For 5G services, the auction framework includes mandatory Quality of Service obligations. PTA sources say commercial 5G services will initially offer a minimum downlink speed of 50 Mbps, with higher speeds expected as networks continue to develop.

The 2300 MHz band will be used to provide a balance of coverage and capacity in urban areas, while the 2600 MHz and 3500 MHz bands will support higher data throughput and lower latency in high-traffic locations.

Commercial 5G rollout is expected to begin within six to seven months after the auction. Initial coverage will focus on major cities, including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, and Quetta. As part of the auction conditions, operators will also be required to expand fiber-to-the-site infrastructure from the current 20 percent to 60 percent, creating the foundation for long-term improvements in mobile broadband services across Pakistan.