Nicaragua
Mobile networks and carriers in Nicaragua use 2 GSM bands, 2 UMTS bands, and 1 LTE band. Find out if your unlocked phone or mobile device will work in Nicaragua. See the tables below for details.
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Check device compatibilityNicaragua's mobile network has undergone significant development over the years. The country's first mobile network was introduced in the early 2000s, with América Móvil's Claro leading the market. By 2002, the number of mobile subscribers surpassed the number of fixed-line subscribers, marking a shift towards mobile dominance. Claro has maintained a strong lead in the mobile sector, with a significant market share.
In 2019, Telefónica sold its operations in Nicaragua to Millicom, which operates under the Tigo brand. Tigo has managed to secure a substantial market share, particularly in the mobile sector, where it holds nearly a third of the market. Other players, such as China's Xinwei Nicaragua (Xinwei Intelcom) operating under the CooTel banner, have also entered the market, though their impact is less pronounced.
The mobile network experience in Nicaragua is characterized by Claro's dominance in terms of download and upload speeds, video and live video experiences, games experience, availability, and consistent quality. Tigo, on the other hand, excels in coverage experience. The Nicaraguan Telecom Institute (Telcor) has been actively involved in spectrum clearing and planning for 5G services, aiming to improve mobile broadband services and support the government's National Plan to Fight Poverty and for Human Development 2022-2026.
Carriers
| Name | # of frequency bands in use |
|---|---|
| Claro | 4 |
| Movistar | 3 |
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Frequencies in use
GSM
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| 850 MHz | GSM |
| 1900 MHz (PCS) | GSM |
UMTS
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| B2 (1900 MHz PCS) | UMTS |
| B5 (850 MHz) | UMTS |
LTE
| Name | Interface |
|---|---|
| B4 (1700/2100 MHz AWS 1) | LTE |
