Kiribati
Mobile networks and carriers in Kiribati use 1 GSM band, 1 UMTS band, and 1 LTE band. Find out if your unlocked phone or mobile device will work in Kiribati. See the tables below for details.
Will your phone or mobile device work in Kiribati?
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Check device compatibilityKiribati's mobile network has faced significant challenges due to the country's remote location and limited infrastructure. Historically, mobile phone access was mainly limited to Tarawa, the capital island, while the 20 inhabited outer islands had little to no signal. Even in areas with network coverage, high costs made it difficult for residents to afford calls and internet access. This limited connectivity hindered communication and economic development in the country.
In recent years, efforts have been made to improve mobile and internet access. The World Bank has reported that while mobile phone penetration is low, there are initiatives to enhance telecommunications infrastructure. For example, the launch of the Kacific1 broadband satellite in 2019 provided mobile and broadband services to several countries in the Asia-Pacific region, including Kiribati. Additionally, the Southern Cross NEXT cable system, which entered service in July 2022, connects the US to Australia and provides service to eastern Kiribati through the Kiritimati Branch.
Despite these advancements, telecommunications costs in Kiribati remain among the highest in the Pacific. The government and residents continue to face challenges related to connectivity, including disruptions during heavy rain and limited access to high-speed internet. Efforts to improve mobile and internet access are crucial for enhancing communication, economic development, and overall quality of life in Kiribati.
Carriers
| Name | # of frequency bands in use |
|---|---|
| TSKL | 3 |
| Vodafone | 3 |
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Frequencies in use
GSM
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| 900 MHz (E-GSM) | GSM |
UMTS
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| B5 (850 MHz) | UMTS |
LTE
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| B12 (700 MHz ac) | LTE |
