Is Citycell Making a Comeback or Just Hype?

Citycell, the first mobile operator in Bangladesh, is it really coming back, or is it just a rumor? According to recent reports and insider news, the company seems to be planning a relaunch using GSM technology. But there is no official announcement yet. Whether Citycell can survive in today’s digital world with strong competitors is still unclear.

Why is the News of Citycell’s Comeback Creating a Buzz? 

Bangladesh’s first mobile operator, Citycell, is trying to come back to the market after being inactive since 2016. In September 2024, Citycell’s owner, Pacific Bangladesh Telecom Limited (PBTL), applied to the Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to restore its license. They said Citycell had to close because of political bias in decisions by the previous government. They also mentioned that if Citycell had stayed open, it could have earned around 20 billion BDT in the last eight years.

At the time of its closure in 2016, Citycell had 8.82 GHz of spectrum and 850 towers. But in March 2023, BTRC canceled their license, and the company may challenge this decision in court.

If Citycell restarts, it could use modern technology like 4.5G, offer low call rates, and provide flexible SIM options. However, nothing is confirmed yet, and this is still just speculation.

Citycell’s New Offerings

Citycell, Bangladesh’s first mobile operator, is reportedly planning a comeback with new mobile services. While there has been no official announcement yet, insiders say the company wants to offer affordable and user-friendly options to attract both old and new customers. Here’s what people can expect:

4.5G Network (Expected)

Although Citycell used to run on 2G, sources suggest the new service may come with a 4.5G network. This means faster internet, better coverage, smoother video calls, quicker downloads, and reliable browsing across Bangladesh.

Affordable Call Rates

Rumors say Citycell might offer call rates as low as 25 poisha per minute. This would attract users who want to stay connected without spending too much.

Unlimited Internet Plans

For people who use the internet a lot, unlimited internet plans are reportedly being prepared. If launched, subscribers could use social media, stream videos, and work from home without worrying about data limits.

With fast internet, low call rates, and flexible data plans, Citycell could become a strong choice for people in Bangladesh, giving more options in the competitive mobile market.

SIM Compatibility and Device Flexibility

Citycell seems ready to make a user-friendly comeback. Now, their SIM cards will work with any mobile phone. Unlike before, users won’t need a specific handset, making it easy to switch networks without any hassle.

For tech lovers and current subscribers, this could be a big upgrade. Existing SIM owners may enjoy better services without buying a new phone, connecting older users with modern technology.

While official confirmation is still pending, industry experts say that BTCL’s involvement could help make the system work smoothly with Bangladesh’s telecom network, ensuring a reliable experience for everyone.

Market Impact and Competition

Citycell might come back and make the telecom and digital market more exciting. Bangladesh’s main telecom companies, Grameenphone, Robi, and Banglalink, could feel more pressure, which might make them lower prices and offer better services.

Although the official details are not fully available yet, sources and market estimates suggest that Citycell is planning to bring some important advantages:

This strategy could bring back old subscribers and also attract new users. For people who want a good network at a low cost with flexible service, Citycell’s comeback could be a good choice.

Challenges Citycell May Face

Citycell’s possible comeback is exciting, but it will face some big challenges:

• Expanding Nationwide Network: To serve people across Bangladesh, Citycell needs to build a strong and reliable network. After being inactive for years, a lot of investment in infrastructure will be needed to reach both cities and rural areas.
• Rebuilding Customer Trust: Many former users switched to other operators. To win them back, Citycell must provide consistent service, attractive plans, and clear communication.
• Meeting Modern Expectations: Today’s mobile users expect fast internet, smooth connectivity, and new services. To compete with established operators, Citycell has to meet or even exceed these expectations.

The challenges are big, but not impossible. With careful planning, support from BTCL, and focus on user experience, Citycell could find its place in Bangladesh’s competitive telecom market.

Expert Opinions and Insider Insights

Telecom experts say Citycell is getting ready for a comeback. Industry insiders hint that tests for 4.5G networks are already being done, and SIM cards are being distributed in the early stages. Official confirmation hasn’t come yet, but these steps show that serious preparation is underway.

Experts also point out that Citycell seems to be mixing nostalgia with modern technology. This approach could attract both old users and new subscribers. By combining familiar appeal with new technology, Citycell’s return looks more credible and might be more than just a rumor.

Final Thoughts

Citycell’s possible comeback is becoming one of the most talked-about news in Bangladesh’s telecom sector. Although there is no official confirmation yet, insiders and experts say the company is preparing to return with modern 4.5G technology, affordable call rates, unlimited internet plans, and flexible SIM options. By combining nostalgia with new services, Citycell could attract both old users and new subscribers, bringing fresh competition to a market led by big operators.

Challenges like rebuilding infrastructure, gaining back customer trust, and meeting high expectations are big, but not impossible. If planned carefully, Citycell’s return could change the telecom scene in Bangladesh, giving users better choices, improved services, and a good reason to reconnect with the country’s first mobile operator.