4.5G network to blast Singapore with 1Gbps speeds in 2017

While we have to wait a few more years for super-fast 5G wireless networks, certain regions of Singapore will be receiving some huge speeds in the coming year or so.

Singapore wireless provider StarHub is teaming up with Chinese giant Huawei on a new project that will see small cell networks sprawled out through Singapore's central business district, blasting out what CNET is calling 4.5G. This new 4.5G internet will provide speeds of around 1Gbps... yeah, pretty damn good - eh?

The service will initially be offered in Singapore, and thanks to the small cell network technology, 1Gbps-class speeds will only be capable indoors, or in office buildings and shopping malls. None of today's smartphones will be capable of being used on the new network, with compatible devices to arrive closer to the network rolling out in Q2 2017 or so.

The small cell networks are said to improve efficiency, with StarHub stating that it allows twice the number of users in the same room, all without buffering or signal loss.