Add MobiGyaan as a preferred source on GoogleT-Mobile and Reliance Jio have achieved what the companies describe as the world’s first 5G Standalone (SA) roaming connection, enabling interoperability between their 5G SA networks across international borders. The milestone was achieved with support from Syniverse’s global connectivity platform. The development allows T-Mobile customers travelling internationally to access 5G SA roaming on Jio’s network in India. Similarly, Jio customers can roam on T-Mobile’s 5G SA network when travelling in the US.
5G Standalone Roaming Between Jio & T-Mobile
Unlike 5G Non-Standalone networks, which use elements of existing 4G infrastructure, 5G Standalone uses a dedicated 5G core network. This architecture is designed to support lower latency, higher reliability and capabilities such as advanced IoT, real-time communications and other services that require consistent connectivity.
For international travellers, the new connection is intended to provide a more consistent 5G experience when moving between the two networks. The companies highlighted use cases including streaming, sharing travel content, business applications, IoT and immersive technologies.
Syniverse Enables Cross-Network 5G SA Connectivity
Syniverse provided the connectivity and interoperability platform used to connect the T-Mobile and Jio networks. The platform is designed to enable secure interconnection between mobile networks and support operators as they test, validate and deploy 5G SA roaming.
Syniverse’s technology also supports the security and signalling requirements involved in connecting standalone 5G core networks operated by different carriers.
What It Means for Jio & T-Mobile Users
The development means T-Mobile customers travelling in India can access Jio’s 5G SA network, while Jio customers travelling in the US can access T-Mobile’s 5G SA network, subject to the applicable roaming arrangements and network availability.
The companies described the milestone as a step toward broader cross-border 5G capabilities and future services built around the dedicated 5G SA architecture.
T-Mobile said its work on 5G Standalone began in 2020, while Jio has built its domestic 5G network around a standalone architecture. Jio’s industry report also describes its network as operating independently of 4G infrastructure.
The T-Mobile-Jio connection demonstrates how 5G Standalone networks can be interconnected across countries, potentially creating a foundation for wider 5G SA roaming deployments as more operators adopt compatible infrastructure.