BTCL to launch virtual network SIMs

Bangladesh Telecommunications Company Limited (BTCL) will begin offering mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) SIM cards and app-based IP calling, according to a recent Facebook post by Faiz Ahmad Taiyeb, Special Assistant to the Chief Adviser at the Ministry of Posts, Telecommunication and Information Technology.

According to Faiz Taiyeb, the new SIM cards would be introduced alongside the company's Alap IP phone app. Together, the services are expected to provide unlimited voice packages under certain conditions. 

The move has been made possible by reforms to the National Telecommunication Network and Licensing Policy 2025, which cleared the regulatory barriers that had previously prevented state companies from operating as MVNOs.

What is MVNO?

Unlike traditional mobile network operators, MVNOs do not own spectrum or physical network infrastructure. Instead, they lease capacity from existing carriers and sell services under their own brand. If implemented as described, BTCL would become the first public-sector entity in Bangladesh to operate in this way, using leased network capacity to expand its consumer services.

BTCL also intends to strengthen its position in internet services through BTCL Gpon, and BTCL ISP connection, which will be offering unlimited data. In addition, the operator plans to introduce optional subscriptions to local streaming platforms such as Bongo, Chorki and Hoichoi, while leaving the door open to international services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. Faiz Taiyeb suggested this component of the plan was designed in part to discourage piracy by making licensed content easier to access.

Smartphones, which remain prohibitively expensive for many Bangladeshis, would be offered on one-year instalment plans beginning at BDT 500 per month, with an initial deposit. Faiz Taiyeb mentioned that BTCL had already discussed the model with local handset manufacturers, who indicated that entry-level devices could be sold under the scheme.

According to Faiz Taiyeb, the initiative reflects an attempt by BTCL to combine "triple-play" and "quad-play" bundles, integrating devices, voice, data and entertainment in a single package with further details to be released in October.