Nokia and Ecuadorian telco CNT have switched on the country's first commercial 5G network.

CNT said the network will provide support for AI applications, augmented reality, smart cities, and industrial automation, among other uses.

The operator has launched the network across 188 5G sites in Guayaquil and other regions including Samborondón, Daule, Durán, Manta, Portoviejo, Salinas, and Santa Elena.

"This is a landmark moment in Ecuador’s technology history. Our new 5G mobile network will offer faster, more stable, and secure connectivity across the country without raising our commercial prices," said Ronald Spina, general manager, CNT E.P.

"Beyond telecommunications, we’ll build on Nokia’s advanced solutions to benefit strategic sectors such as health, education, manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation, through data- and AI-driven solutions that improve quality of service for more Ecuadorians."

Nokia has provided technologies, such as massive adaptive multiple-input, multiple-output antennas and remote radio units, as well as the AirFrame data center system, which facilitate cloud-based data processing and innovation in digital services.

CNT (Corporación Nacional de Telecomunicaciones) was founded in 2008 through the merger of Andinatel S.A. and Pacifictel S.A.