The new network covers 14 high footfall public spaces in Moscow and will provide 5G connectivity at speeds of up to 1.5 Gbps to invited subscribers with compatible 5G smartphones, that can support n79 band in the 4.4 GHz to 5 GHz frequency range.
MTS said this "limited launch" was "another milestone toward a broader 5G rollout in the longer term".
“MTS is proud to be reaffirming our technology leadership by launching Russia’s first large-scale pilot 5G network, which will be available to thousands of our subscribers for everyday use," MTS president CEO Alexey Kornya.
"We will invite select users with compatible devices to join the pilot and experience the benefits of 5G first-hand — high-bandwidth, low-latency connectivity for next-generation applications such as UHD video, AR/VR, and cloud gaming.
“At the same time, the pilot test will help our specialists monitor infrastructure performance and service quality under real-world usage," Kornya added.
The coverage extends across parks and shopping areas in Moscow, including the well-known Gorky Park, Moscow State University, Nikolskaya Street, Skolkovo Innovation Center and VDNH Exhibition Center,
Subscribers are invited to participate on an individual basis by SMS.