Operators | Fone Arena

Nokia powers Eurotel WCDMA 3G network in the Czech Republic

The leading Czech mobile operator Eurotel Praha, spol. s.r.o. has launched the first WCDMA 3G network in the Czech Republic. The launch follows the successful live demonstration of 3G services, such as video call and Internet browsing and file transfer with Nokia High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) at the Brno trade show in October 2005

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE December 5, 2005

Nokia powers Eurotel’s WCDMA 3G network in the Czech Republic

Nokia and Eurotel test HSDPA in live network

Espoo, Finland – The leading Czech mobile operator Eurotel Praha, spol. s.r.o. has launched the first WCDMA 3G network in the Czech Republic. The launch follows the successful live demonstration of 3G services, such as video call and Internet browsing and file transfer with Nokia High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) at the Brno trade show in October 2005. In the first phase, the 3G services are available in Prague and Brno, but are expanding rapidly to other parts of the country.

“We are pleased to announce another notable first – being Czech Republic’s first mobile operator to launch services such as mobile TV, live video, full-track music downloads and video call, powered by WCDMA 3G, to our customers. This is a natural expansion of our current services and will strengthen our position as the market innovator,” says Stanislav Kura, Chief Strategy and Product Development Officer, Eurotel Praha, spol. s.r.o. “We are pleased to see that Nokia’s capability in WCDMA 3G network deployment helped us to launch the service in record time and according to our plans.”

Nokia and Eurotel are currently also trialling HSDPA, which is an important step in bringing faster mobile services to consumers. The two companies have completed an HSDPA call, reaching 1.8 Mbps download speed, in Eurotel’s live network using Nokia’s 3G network technology. “Internet browsing is a great example of the benefits that HSDPA will bring to consumers. It also demonstrates Eurotel’s commitment to maintaining leadership in broadband mobile data services,” says Stanislav Kura. “We are satisfied with Nokia’s solution and their support in making this high-quality HSDPA call and looking forward to put it in commercial operation.”

“We are very pleased to continue our long term and successful cooperation with Eurotel and join hands to achieve an important milestone in the Czech Republic’s mobile communications through the commercial launch of WCDMA 3G services,” says Matti Palom?ki, Country Director, Networks, Nokia. “Nokia is proud to cooperate with Eurotel in shaping the future of mobile multimedia communications.”

As part of the deal announced in September, Nokia provides Eurotel radio and packet core networks, including state-of-the-art 3GPP Release 4 MSC Server System, Nokia Flexi Intelligent Service Node (ISN), Nokia IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) and HSDPA-ready Nokia UltraSite WCDMA base stations. Nokia also provides the Nokia NetAct(TM) network management solution, and services for network planning and implementation, operation and maintenance, and training.

The Nokia HSDPA is a cost-optimized, high performance solution with a software upgrade to the WCDMA 3G network that offers end users significantly faster download speeds. Operators upgrading their networks with the Nokia HSDPA solution can take advantage of improved data rates and throughput, enhancing the efficiency of the network to support a higher number of users at a lower cost per user. The Nokia HSDPA solution allows operators to provide enhanced end-user services at significantly lower cost per bit. Currently, several operators are testing the first HSDPA release, showing encouraging test results.

Later, an upgrade to High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA) with enhanced upload speeds will be available in a similar manner. Nokia upload speed is already 384 kbps. Nokia already has over 20 HSDPA contracts, 7 of which have been published.

About Eurotel Praha, spol. s r.o.
Eurotel Praha, spol. s r.o. reported almost 4.5 million customers in its nework at the end of September 2005. The mobile telephone networks of Eurotel 900/1800 MHz and 450 MHz cover a territory which has 99 percent of the population of the Czech Republic (more than 10 million people). Eurotel holds a UMTS license for the operation of 3rd generation mobile services.

As well as services for post-paid customers on billed tariffs, Eurotel offers prepaid cards under the brand name Go and a full range and content of multi-media services, including video, MMS, voice services, WAP and SMS. Eurotel is the only mobile operator in the Czech Republic which offers the two most advanced GSM (wireless) data transfer technologies. General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) and GSM High-Speed Circuit-Switched Data (HSCSD) are available to contractual customers and customers with prepaid services. Eurotel as the first operator in Europe offers the CDMA2000 1xEV-DO high speed Internet access in its 450 MHz network. The high quality of Eurotel services includes SuperSound technology, which ensures a clean voice connection and 397 roaming partners in 160 countries around the world.

Eurotel Praha is a limited liability company (spol. s r. o.), and is owned (100%) by CESK? TELECOM, a. s.

About Nokia
Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations.

Airtel launched its network services in Koraput and Rayagada districts

Airtel launched its network services in Koraput and Rayagada districts making its foray into several areas of southern Orissa and spreading its operations to 300 towns in less than one year of its operations.

Statesman News Service
BHUBANESWAR, Dec. 4. ? Airtel launched its network services in Koraput and Rayagada districts making its foray into several areas of southern Orissa and spreading its operations to 300 towns in less than one year of its operations.
It has also announced to bring additional 100 towns under its network coverage before March 2006.
With this total towns under Airtel coverage will go up to 400 in Orissa.

via [The Statesman]

Decision on 3g spectrum by 2006 first quarter

The decision on 3G spectrum is expected to be taken by first quarter of 2006, said Minister of Communications and Information Technology Dayanidhi Maran

NEW DELHI: The government of India is likely to take a decision on 3G spectrum early next year.

?The decision on 3G spectrum is expected to be taken by first quarter of 2006,? said Minister of Communications and Information Technology Dayanidhi Maran.

Speaking on the sidelines of the India Economic Summit, he added, ?We welcome more players in 3G, but the quality and the price at which services would be provided should be competitive, as it is a value-added service.?

He further said, ?3G is not a replacement of 2G. Even when 3G comes into India, investment in 2G would still continue.?

Speaking on the issue of unbundling the last mile, Maran opined, ?Government will not go for unbundling the last mile. I am very happy with the broadband progress and see no necessity for unbundling the last mile.?

He also stressed on the need for provision of more content. ?Price of broadband and PCs have gone down but there is no content to be accessed through these. We have to make sure that it is available,? he said.

He further informed that the new telecom policy would be out next year. ?IndiaOne is also happening and we have removed almost all barriers for its rollout,? he added.

via [ciol]

Nokia wins a GSM network contract with Telefonica Moviles Colombia

Nokia and Telefonica Moviles have agreed to provide a complete GSM system deal to Telefonica Moviles Colombia which includes GSM radio access and MSC Server System (MSS), giving it the chance to broaden its service offering to its customers. The deal marks a new customer for Nokia.

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE December 1, 2005

Nokia wins a GSM network contract with Telef?nica M?viles Colombia

First agreement for introducing Nokia MSC Server System in Telef?nica M?viles Group

Espoo, Finland – Nokia and Telef?nica M?viles have agreed to provide a complete GSM system deal to Telef?nica M?viles Colombia which includes GSM radio access and MSC Server System (MSS), giving Telef?nica M?viles the chance to broaden its service offering to its customers. The deal marks a new customer for Nokia.

“Nokia has shown understanding of our customer requirements, and has been a reliable supplier of network equipment and services to meet those requirements,” says Sergio Regueros, CEO, Telef?nica M?viles Colombia, “Through this new deal, movistar takes a step forward to provide the best and widest range of services in Colombia and in the immediate future, will enable the migration to more advanced mobile services.”

Nokia is supplying Telef?nica M?viles subsidiary in Colombia with a new mobile softswitch: Nokia MSC Server System, compliant with the 3GPP release 4 standardization. Nokia is also supplying a country-wide GSM radio network, complemented by Nokia NetAct (TM) network service and management system, Operations Support System (OSS) and operations support for three months. The deal includes network planning, installation, optimization services and training. Deliveries have already begun.

“This agreement reinforces our successful cooperation with Telef?nica M?viles in Latin America, enabling them to expand their offering in the voice and data market in Colombia,” says Guillermo Mairena, Account Director for Telef?nica M?viles, Networks, Nokia. “In addition, it strengthens the leadership of Nokia in the area of new switching solutions, which will allow Telef?nica to be ready to implement 3G services and to take advantage of important savings in transmission costs.”

About Telef?nica M?viles S.A.
Telef?nica M?viles, a Telef?nica Group company, is the world’s second-largest mobile telephony multinational and the leading cellular company in the Spanish-and Portuguese- speaking markets. The company has operations in 15 countries across three continents and a customer base that exceeded 89 million at September 30, 2005. During 2004, Telef?nica M?viles obtained revenues of 11.828 billion euros. Ebitda rose 5.3% in the year, to 4.701 billion euros, while net profit totalled 1.634 billion euros. The company’s shares trade on the Spanish stock exchanges and the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol tem. For more information visit our website: www.telefonicamoviles.com

Nokia introduces Nokia 6234, 3G phone for Vodafone

In connection with its annual Capital Market Days event, Nokia today unveiled the 3G-enabled Nokia 6234. Featuring a 2-megapixel camera, a 320 x 240 QVGA color screen, digital music player, stereo speakers and a wide array of features and applications which take advantage of WCDMA mobile broadband services, the Nokia 6234 will be available exclusively for Vodafone customers world-wide.

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE December 1, 2005

Nokia introduces Nokia 6234, feature-filled 3G mobile phone exclusively for Vodafone

nokia 6234

Feature-filled model underlines operator customization as cornerstone of Nokia strategy

New York, NY, US – In connection with its annual Capital Market Days event, Nokia today unveiled the 3G-enabled Nokia 6234. Featuring a 2-megapixel camera, a 320 x 240 QVGA color screen, digital music player, stereo speakers and a wide array of features and applications which take advantage of WCDMA mobile broadband services, the Nokia 6234 will be available exclusively for Vodafone customers world-wide. The stylish and classic Nokia 6234 (WCDMA 2100 / GSM 900/1800/1900) is expected to begin shipping in the 1st quarter of 2006.

“The Nokia 6234 for Vodafone is an excellent example of Nokia’s renewed commitment to operator customization — a cornerstone of Nokia’s strategy,” says Kai Oistamo, Executive Vice President and General Manager, Mobile Phones, Nokia. “The operator-exclusive Nokia 6234 offers a familiar design and Nokia’s intuitive, easy-to-use menu structure, complemented by Vodafone’s signature colors, graphics and easy access to Vodafone’s wide range of 3G services. It’s an ideal balance.”

In addition to the operator exclusive industrial design, the Nokia 6234 offers an array of Vodafone-specific software features. These include Vodafone graphics, icons, menu texts and themes in the user interface offering a unique look and feel to the easy-to-use Nokia menu. Equally important, the Nokia 6234 provides branded access to Vodafone’s services. Additionally, the Nokia 6234 features Vodafone start-up and shut-down graphics and tones, customized wallpapers, screensavers and ringtones.

“We have worked very closely with Nokia over the last two years, with particular focus on developing more terminals which are Vodafone live! enabled,” says Peter Bamford, Chief Marketing Officer, Vodafone. “We are now taking that to another level with the Nokia 6234. For the first time, we have a mobile phone designed by Nokia that is exclusive to Vodafone. The fact that it is a 3G product is all the more important.”

nokia 6234

For consumers, the 3G-enabled Nokia 6234 offers a 2-megapixel camera with 8x zoom, operational in landscape mode. With this, the Nokia 6234 allows for pictures to be taken on the spot while the video sharing functionality allows to mutually enjoy special moments instantaneously. The bright QVGA screen displays pictures and multimedia content such as videos and websites in a compelling and colorful way.

The Nokia 6234 holds an impressive music experience, to be enjoyed via the built-in stereo speakers with 3-D sound effects or headphones. Supporting microSD memory cards of up to 2 GB, the Nokia 6234 puts a collection of consumers’ favorite albums right into their pockets. A Visual Radio client complements the audio experience of the Nokia 6234.

With Bluetooth Wireless Technology, the Nokia 6234 easily transfers pictures taken to any compatible printer and seamlessly connects to a wide assortment of Bluetooth enabled headsets and car kits. Unifying easy-to-use imaging capabilities with music on the go and 3G services like video sharing, the Nokia 6234 offers up to 4 hours of talk time on GSM networks (up to 3 hours of talk time via WCDMA) and up to 2 weeks of standby time.

About Vodafone
Vodafone provides a full range of mobile telecommunications services, including voice and data communications. Vodafone has equity interests in 27 countries and Partner Networks in a further 14 countries, with a proportionate customer base of over 171 million. For more information, please visit www.vodafone.com

VODAFONE, Vodafone live! and the Vodafone logos are trade marks of the Vodafone Group. Other product and company names mentioned herein may be the trade marks of their respective owners.

www.nokia.com

Nokia strengthens its preparations for China 3G

Nokia announced today that its Networks business group has successfully completed a High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) call, reaching the speed of 3.2 Mbps, at its facilities in Beijing, China

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 30, 2005

Nokia strengthens its preparations for China 3G: Completes high speed HSDPA call

An important step in developing mobile broadband

Espoo, Finland – Nokia announced today that its Networks business group has successfully completed a High Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) call, reaching the speed of 3.2 Mbps, at its facilities in Beijing, China. The call underlines Nokia’s strong position in HSDPA development.

The data call, which achieved stable throughput, was made in a Nokia network using a test terminal. Earlier this year, the Nokia Research Center in China completed the industry’s first High Speed Uplink Packet Access) HSUPA demonstration.

The first commercial HSDPA software release for network infrastructure offering up to 1.8 Mbps download speeds will be available in 2005 from Nokia, followed by a simple software upgrade to 3.6 Mbps starting mid 2006 according to commercial terminal availability.

"Nokia is encouraged by the results of its HSDPA development work in China," said Keith Sutton, Vice President, Technology Office, Networks, Nokia China. "The high speed HSDPA call is part of our ambitious HSDPA development timetable. It further demonstrates Nokia’s strong capability in 3G, offering world class performance for our customers. The announcement today reaffirms our position as the leading 3G mobile infrastructure and solution partner in China area as well as our commitment to the market. "

Nokia has a substantial R&D commitment to China having six R&D units including two 3G R&D Centers covering both radio and core network technology development. Besides the Nokia MetroSite 50 WCDMA Base Station, the Nokia Flexi WCDMA Base Station recently launched will be made available for the China market in order to allow operators to build their network in a totally new way, with unprecedented rapidity and low cost.

The Nokia HSDPA solution is a software upgrade to the WCDMA 3G network that offers end users significantly faster download speeds. Operators upgrading their networks with the Nokia HSDPA solution can take advantage of improved data rates and throughput, enhancing the efficiency of the network to support a higher number of users at a lower cost per user. The Nokia HSDPA solution allows operators to provide enhanced end-user services at significantly lower cost per bit. Currently, several operators are testing the first HSDPA release, showing encouraging test results.

Later, an upgrade to High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA) with enhanced upload speeds, will be available in a similar manner. Nokia’s upload speed is today already 384 kbps. Nokia currently has over 20 HSDPA contracts, 7 of which have been published.

About Nokia

Nokia is a world leader in mobile communications, driving the growth and sustainability of the broader mobility industry. Nokia connects people to each other and the information that matters to them with easy-to-use and innovative products like mobile phones, devices and solutions for imaging, games, media and businesses. Nokia provides equipment, solutions and services for network operators and corporations.

Nokia and PLDT cooperate in Fixed-Mobile Convergence solutions in the Philippines

Nokia and the leading telecommunications provider in the Philippines, Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), have set up a Next Generation Network Laboratory to develop and test end-to-end Fixed-Mobile Convergence services prior to their commercial launch.

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 30, 2005

Nokia and PLDT cooperate in Fixed-Mobile Convergence solutions in the Philippines

Espoo, Finland – Nokia and the leading telecommunications provider in the Philippines, Philippine Long Distance Telephone Company (PLDT), have set up a Next Generation Network Laboratory to develop and test end-to-end Fixed-Mobile Convergence services prior to their commercial launch. The Next Generation Network Laboratory can leverage PLDT’s current fixed and mobile networks to create converged services for PLDT Group customers.

Nokia has provided the Next Generation Network Laboratory with end-to-end Fixed-Mobile Convergence solutions, comprised of Unified Core and converged access networks as well as Nokia multimedia and VoIP enabled terminals.

"At the PLDT Group our mobile arm Smart Communcations has been a global pioneer in many new GSM services, like m-Commerce and electronic pre-paid top-ups. We see convergence as an opportunity to provide our customers with new innovative services that will drive the future growth of our business," says Don Rae, Chief Operations Adviser, PLDT. "Convergence is an important part of PLDT’s vision, and the Next Generation Network Laboratory provides us with a test bed where we can trial new ideas and services before commercial launches."

"We are delighted to be working with PLDT to address emerging opportunities for combining fixed and mobile networks and services in the Philippines," says Markku Nieminen, Account Director, Networks, Nokia. "Nokia is trialling its converged solutions with many leading operators worldwide, providing powerful solutions for consumers and corporate customers, as well as fixed and mobile networks, in what is shaping up to be a new chapter in this industry."

As an example of the new services development, PLDT and Nokia organized a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) contest for Filipino application developers called the "SIP Challenge". Forum Nokia provides the developers training and assistance, and they can test their IP-based applications at the Next Generation Network Laboratory.

The Nokia Unified Core includes the Nokia IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), the Nokia VoIP Server, the Nokia MSC Server System (MSS), Nokia Media Gateway (MGW), Nokia Intelligent Service Node (ISN), Nokia Intelligent Content Delivery (ICD) for multi-access control and data services charging and Nokia D500 IP DSLAM.

Nokia has been the main GSM network supplier to Smart Communications since 1998.

About PLDT

PLDT is the leading telecommunications provider in the Philippines. Through its three principal business groups – fixed line, wireless and information communications technology – PLDT offers a wide range of telecommunications services across the Philippines’ most extensive fiber optic backbone and fixed line, cellular and satellite network.

PLDT is listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE:TEL) and its American depositary shares are listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE:PHI) and the Pacific Exchange. PLDT has one of the largest market capitalizations among Philippine listed companies.

Further information can be obtained by visiting the web at www.pldt.com.ph.

About Nokia

Nokia wins GSM expansion with Indonesian Indosat

One of the largest network operators in Indonesia, Indosat, has chosen Nokia to expand its GSM network in Bali and Java

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 29, 2005

Nokia wins GSM expansion with Indonesian Indosat

Espoo, Finland – One of the largest network operators in Indonesia, Indosat, has chosen Nokia to expand its GSM network in Bali and Java, excluding Jabotabek (Jakarta and surrounding areas), with radio network and circuit and packet switched core networks. Nokia will also supply cellular transmission for East Java. The expansion will further enhance Indosat’s service quality and coverage, and provide a network, which is prepared for future technology upgrades. A part of the expansion has been concluded as part of a three-year framework agreement signed by Nokia and Indosat in June.

Nokia also provides the Nokia NetAct(TM) network and service management system, as well as network planning, implementation and optimization services. The NetAct(TM) solution maximizes operational efficiency and ensures speed and quality on services to end users, allowing operators to embrace market opportunities and increase customer loyalty. Deliveries have already started.

Nokia provides Indosat superior network coverage in Java, including rural areas, with high quality products and rapid roll-out capability. Indosat is one of the largest cellular players in Indonesia with total subscribers of 12.7 million as of September 30, 2005.

"We are honored to continue our close collaboration with Indosat," says Henrik Brogaard, Account Director, Networks, Nokia. "This cooperation demonstrates again Nokia’s commitment to the development and growth of Indosat’s business, as well as delivering high quality services to the consumers in the region. Indonesia has a tremendous growth potential, and with Nokia’s industry leading GSM/GPRS systems and solutions, Indosat is able to easily support the expected subscriber growth with quality coverage, and evolve its network to future technologies and services."

About Nokia

Nokia and 3 Scandinavia work together on 3G push to talk

okia and 3 Scandinavia are trialling Nokia Push to talk over Cellular (PoC) service in the Swedish market. With push to talk, people can use their mobile phones like walkie-talkies, communicating with a selected group or with individuals at the push of a button

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 28, 2005

Nokia and 3 Scandinavia work together on 3G push to talk

Espoo, Finland – Nokia and 3 Scandinavia are trialling Nokia Push to talk over Cellular (PoC) service in the Swedish market. With push to talk, people can use their mobile phones like walkie-talkies, communicating with a selected group or with individuals at the push of a button. The trial is initially targeted to business users, but private and business users alike can benefit from this simple, direct communication.

To ensure the success of the trial in 3 Scandinavia’s WCDMA 3G network, Nokia leverages its leading position in GSM-based PoC, unique experience from terminals, knowledge of consumer behavior, and systems integration. Nokia will provide selected push to talk handsets, including Nokia 6280, for potential use in the trial.

"We strive to offer innovative services to appeal to all our customers. Push to talk is a fascinating new service for business users in particular," says Jörgen Askeroth, Chief Technology Officer, 3 Scandinavia. "We chose to trial push to talk with Nokia because their end-to-end solution will be compliant with the OMA (Open Mobile Alliance) standard, and because of Nokia’s service commitment and capability to support the PoC platform."

"We are very pleased to work together with 3 Scandinavia in trialling push to talk," says Bob Bird, Vice President, Networks, Nokia. "We are confident that this trial strengthens Nokia’s position as a leader in push to talk worldwide."

Nokia’s end-to-end push to talk solution offers a full feature set, and will be compliant with the OMA standard. Nokia’s solution is compatible with the IP Multimedia Subsystem as standardized in 3GPP, and it will be capable of supporting various push-to-media, such as video. With commercial contracts for 45 PoC service offerings, and several operator trials ongoing, Nokia is leading the market for Push to talk over Cellular in GSM. Nokia has launched 30 PoC handsets, out of which 20 are available in Sweden and 5 are 3G terminals.

About 3

3 is the leading mobile broadband and media operator in Scandinavia and was the first to launch 3G services in Sweden in May 2003 and Denmark in October 2003. In Scandinavia, 3 is a joint venture between Hutchison-Whampoa (60%) and Investor AB (40%). 3 services are available from sister companies in Australia, Austria, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy and United Kingdom. 3 also holds UMTS 3G licences in Indonesia and Norway.

About Nokia

Nokia enhaces IDEA Cellular’s Services

IDEA Cellular, a leading mobile operator in India, and Nokia, the world leader in mobile communications, have launched Nokia’s Intelligent Content Delivery System (ICD) solution on all IDEA’s mobile networks across India.

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 28, 2005

IDEA Cellular chooses Nokia Intelligent Content Delivery to become India’s 1st operator to charge differentially for data services

Espoo, Finland – IDEA Cellular, a leading mobile operator in India, and Nokia, the world leader in mobile communications, have launched Nokia’s Intelligent Content Delivery System (ICD) solution on all IDEA’s mobile networks across India. The Nokia ICD solution enhances IDEA’s mobile packet core network capabilities and enables it to connect both prepaid and post-paid subscribers to data services and charge them according to the value of traffic and content. This makes IDEA India’s first and only operator to charge differentially for data services, thereby increasing its revenue streams.

Nokia ICD solution allows IDEA to provide data services, such as downloadable ringtones, music, games, browsing, streaming, MMS and content based SMS, to both prepaid and post-paid customers and charge for them differentially.

"IDEA has always been at the forefront of providing innovative data services to its customers by leveraging the latest technologies. We have taken another significant step in that direction by charging online for data services for our prepaid customers. Data services usage is on the rise and it was important to not only extend data services to prepaid customers but also charge customers differentially depending on the importance of the service for them," said Vikram Mehmi, CEO, IDEA Cellular. "Nokia’s technology combined with strong systems integration capabilities made Nokia the natural choice as we enhance our service machinery to support our increasing data services offering."

Systems integration of the Nokia solution to IDEA’s existing network environment (Multivendor Integration) and specific customization are key part of the agreement. In addition, Nokia provides IDEA with a comprehensive set of services, including delivery services, Help Desk, software maintenance and emergency support.

"The Nokia ICD solution deployment for IDEA is the first of its kind in the Indian telecom market, and is a strategic step in the Nokia – IDEA relationship. This is the first deployment of the Nokia ICD solution in India and Nokia is the sole supplier of such a solution for IDEA across all its networks," said Ashish Chowdhary, Country Head, Networks, Nokia India. "The Nokia ICD solution will enable IDEA to drive greater revenues from its data services offering to its customers."

The Nokia ICD solution is a network based centralized service and content control system, which enables operators to analyze, charge and manage services in a flexible manner. The Nokia ICD solution helps the operator provide highly segmented services for different subscriber groups, providing advanced tools for service and subscription profiling and management, as well as for charging and access differentiation. All services can be charged either offline as postpaid or online from the user’s prepaid account. Nokia has over 48 references for the Nokia Intelligent Content Delivery.

About IDEA Cellular

As India’s leading GSM Mobile Services operator, IDEA Cellular has licenses to operate in 11 circles. With a customer base of over 6 million, IDEA Cellular has operations in New Delhi, Maharashtra, Goa, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Uttaranchal, Haryana, UP- West and Kerala. IDEA Cellular’s footprint currently covers approximately 45% of India’s population and over 50% of the potential telecom-market.

Customer Service and Innovation are the drivers of this Cellular Brand. With GPRS currently available on all its’ networks, for both pre and post paid customers, IDEA Cellular is the first company to commercially launch next generation EDGE technology (a 3G technology) for its Delhi circle.

As a leader in Value Added Services, Innovation is central to IDEA’s VAS Factory. It is the first cellular company to launch music messaging with ‘Cellular Jockey’, ‘Global SMS’ in over 540 networks across all technology platforms, a voice portal with ‘Say IDEA’. A frontrunner in introducing revolutionary tariff plans, offering maximum savings to its customers, IDEA Cellular has the distinction of offering the most customer friendly and competitive Pre Paid offerings, for the first time in India, with ‘Eco Talk’, ‘Flexi-charge’ and other segmented offerings. The most recent offering – ‘Lifetime Idea’ is the first and only loyalty program, for pre paid customers, introduced by a Cellular brand and Pay Easy which is bill payment through the effective use of the pre-paid channel. IDEA is the only operator in the world to launch this service. Idea is the only cellular operator who has launched a complete suite of Mobile Email services.

Idea has many milestones to its credit, mainly – scoring the highest percentage in Metros and Circle B & C in Customer Satisfaction and the highest percentage in Value Added Service and Overall Sales satisfaction as per the Voice and Data – Customer Satisfaction Survey in December 04. The largest M&A deal in India INC, through its acquisition of Escotel in 2004 and its Rs. 5000 crore financial closure, both being largest ever in the history of Indian telecom.

IDEA Cellular Ltd. is headquartered in Pune.

About Nokia

Nokia wins USD 141 million GSM network expansion with BSNL in India

Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), one of India’s leading telecommunications companies, has awarded Nokia a comprehensive GSM/EDGE and GPRS network expansion project in North India.

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 24, 2005

Nokia wins USD 141 million GSM network expansion with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) in India

Espoo, Finland – Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), one of India’s leading telecommunications companies, has awarded Nokia a comprehensive GSM/EDGE and GPRS network expansion project in North India. The expansion, valued at USD 141 million, will include core and radio network equipment, and an extensive range of services.

The expansion will enable BSNL to significantly increase its network coverage and capacity in the states of Jammu & Kashmir, Haryana, Uttaranchal, Uttar Pradesh (both east and west circles), Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan. It gives BSNL the chance to introduce the benefits of mobility to 2 million new Indian subscribers, and underscores Nokia’s commitment to the dynamic Indian market.

"This is an important network expansion to BSNL as we strive to offer the best network coverage and capacity to our subscribers," says GS Grover, Director Commercial & Marketing, BSNL.

"We are delighted to strengthen our successful cooperation with BSNL," says Ashish Chowdhary, Country Head, Networks, Nokia India. "This expansion provides BSNL the ability to enhance its network coverage and capacity, and shows the strength of Nokia’s full range of service offerings."

Services play an important role in the contract, including complete network planning and optimization, infrastructure design, supply and implementation, and commissioning as well as systems integration and Nokia’s over-the-air (OTA) device management solution. This expansion is an extension of a USD 284 million GSM/EDGE and GPRS contract signed by Nokia and BSNL in 2004.

Nokia’s operations in India include networks and terminals sales divisions, three Research and Development facilities and an upcoming manufacturing facility in Chennai that will produce both terminals and GSM infrastructure equipment. Nokia also plans to open a Global Networks Operation Center in India by the end of the year.

About Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL)

BSNL is India’s No. 1 telecommunications company and the largest public sector undertaking in India with authorized share capital of $3.6 billion and a net worth of $13.85 billion. It has a pan-India network with over 42 million subscribers across 5000 towns and almost 12.5 million GSM cellular subscribers. www.bsnl.in

About Nokia

Nokia wins over USD 55 million GSM network expansion deal from AIS in Thailand

Nokia and Advanced Info Service Plc (AIS), one of Thailand’s leading mobile phone service operators, have signed a deal worth over USD 55 million to expand AIS’ GSM network in the Northern, Central and Southern regions of Thailand.

NOKIA PRESS RELEASE November 23, 2005

Nokia wins over USD 55 million GSM network expansion deal from AIS in Thailand

Espoo, Finland – Nokia and Advanced Info Service Plc (AIS), one of Thailand’s leading mobile phone service operators, have signed a deal worth over USD 55 million to expand AIS’ GSM network in the Northern, Central and Southern regions of Thailand. The expansion will improve network coverage and capacity and enable AIS to boost service quality and offer innovative multimedia and convergence services.

Under the agreement, Nokia is supplying radio network expansion and Nokia Unified Core Network solutions, including IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), 3GPP Release 4 MSC Server and Nokia Presence solution. The expansion is supported by Nokia’s systems integration, implementation, optimization, project management and consulting services. The system continues to be supported by the unique multitechnology Nokia NetAct(TM) solution.

"AIS continues to dominate Thailand’s mobile services despite the challenges posed by the price competition in the market," says Ms. Arpattra Sringkarrinkul, Executive Vice President, Solutions AIS. "Thanks to Nokia’s flexibility and end-to-end capability, we have been able to quickly respond to the subscriber growth and to differentiate our service offering with new innovative multimedia and convergence services."

"Nokia is pleased to continue the successful cooperation with AIS in expanding its GSM network to meet the subscriber growth and heated local competition," says Somchai Thamsirisup, Account Director, Networks, Nokia. "The collaboration now extends to cover strategic non-voice and IP-based services."

Nokia has been working with AIS since the early 1990s, providing comprehensive services for the operator’s GSM infrastructure.

Nokia’s complete, end-to-end IMS solution enables operators to offer IP-based multimedia services such as push to talk and Presence. The solution includes the Nokia IP Multimedia Subsystem solution and application servers, which are connected to the IMS via the open IMS Service Control (ISC) interface. Nokia has over 30 Nokia IMS references, including 10 commercial deals.

The MSC Server System brings the operators improved efficiency by reducing the cost of building and operating mobile networks. Nokia leads the market in the 3GPP Release 4 mobile softswitch with over 70 customers for the Nokia MSC Server, over 20 of which are already in live commercial use.

Nokia Presence solution lets mobile subscribers know how and when they can reach their family, friends, or colleagues before making a call.

About AIS

Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited (AIS), a subsidiary of Shin Corporation PCL., is the established leader in Thailand’s wireless communications industry after more than 15 years of services with its subscribers based more than 16 millions and market share more than 50%.

To date, AIS service network covers 795 districts (amphur) throughout Thailand, plus international roaming across in six continents. Additionally, indoor coverage has been greatly expanded in both Bangkok and the provinces. AIS has continuously enhanced and expanded its network in order to respond to the market and technological advances, whilst keeping abreast of consumers’ growing demands and needs. It continues to integrate the latest in advanced technology and deliver more than just voice communication, with GPRS and EDGE technology.

AIS strongly believe that wireless communications bring changes to the way Thai people live their life, regardless of who they are and what they do. With endless communications possibilities, the quality of life is better. Visit our web site at www.ais.co.th

About Nokia

Rural India next target for mobile giant Bharti

NDIAN plumbers and electricians may earn only ?50 a month and live in a shack with no running water but they all seem to have mobile phones, thanks to a company celebrating its 10th birthday this week

NDIAN plumbers and electricians may earn only £50 a month and live in a shack with no running water but they all seem to have mobile phones, thanks to a company celebrating its 10th birthday this week.

In 1995, Bharti Televentures chose to ignore market analysts who warned the market for mobiles in New Delhi would be only 7,000 people. It now has 1.8m subscribers out of the capital’s total of 5m. The country has 66m subscribers with almost 3m being added every month.

Indians are grateful to Bharti; it liberated them from having to cringe before corrupt government officials and wait years for a phone connection.

Spice Telecom kicks off New Strategic Initiatives

Spice Telecom, the premier telecom service provider today announced that Mr. Prakash Nanani has taken over as the Chief Executive Officer for Punjab and Karnataka circles. Mr. Prakash Nanani unveiled the new Spice logo.

Spice Telecom kicks off New Strategic Initiatives

Mr. Prakash Nanani takes over as the Chief Executive Officer for Punjab & Karnataka circles
Spice unveils the new brand logo
Launches first of its kind Lifelong Validity Offer on Mahabuck

Chandigarh, October 28, 2005: Spice Telecom, the premier telecom service provider today announced that Mr. Prakash Nanani has taken over as the Chief Executive Officer for Punjab & Karnataka circles. Mr. Prakash Nanani unveiled the new Spice logo. The new Spice logo shall be common to Spice group companies operating in the ICE (Information, Communication & Entertainment) sector. The new brand identity is derived from the Brand Core Purpose, Brand Vision & Brand Values. Mr. Prakash Nanani also announced the launch of a first-of-its kind ‘Life time validity’ offer on Mahabuck for Spice pre-paid subscribers.

Mr. Prakash Nanani takes over as the Chief Executive Officer, Spice Telecom

Mr. Prakash Nanani, has taken over as the CEO, he confirmed the news of the exit of Distacom from the mobile service venture. The Honk Kong based Distacom, the foreign shareholder has sold its stake in the B.K.Modi promoted Spice Telecom, to Ashmore Investment Management Ltd., a financial investor and the Deutsche Bank Group.

Mr. Nanani also stated that Mr. Navin Kaul, former Chief Operating Officer, Punjab circle, has taken over as the Chief Operating Officer, Karnataka circle.

Speaking at the occasion Mr. Nanani, stated that “Spice being the oldest cellular operator in this region, has always remained focused and committed towards developing state-of-the-art telecommunication infrastructure and Spice Telecom is also in the process of consolidating and investing in various disciplines, like network and technology upgradation, increase in infrastructure and resources and also enhancement of the brand image.”

New Spice Logo

Spice is owned by Mcorp Global, the holding company for the brand. Mcorp Global is focusing on the ICE sector and in this direction has been building on the strength of its subsidiaries that have been in operation in this sector, like Spice Telecom & Spice Mobile. The group has also made recent forays into certain specific market segments of the ICE sector, like Spice Malls & Multiplexes. The group believes that it will gain from having a common brand for the ICE sector, as it would be able to gain from the economies of scale in branding & marketing. A common consumer brand shall also foster greater consumer awareness for the brand and in time lead to greater trust in the brand.

The Spice logo is depicted in Orange, Purple, Green, Blue & Yellow colours. The colors of the brand logo depicts specific values that are synonymous to Spice Telecom: Orange – Vibrancy, Purple – Innovation, Green – Freshness, Blue – Trust & Yellow – Fun.

The new Spice brand identity is derived from the Brand Core Purpose, Brand Vision & Brand Values. The strategy for the brand is captured concisely by these:

Brand Core Purpose: To always be the first to provide user-friendly and innovative solutions for young minds in the ICE space

Brand Vision: To be the most preferred choice for energetic young minds
for ICE products and services by 2011

Brand Values: Fun, Innovative, Vibrant, Empathy, Trust, Speed of Response

The new Spice identity shall be shared by a group of companies namely: Spice Telecom (GSM service provider), Spice Mobile Phone (Mobile Handset), Spice Mega Malls & Multiplexes (Commercial Property (Development & Management), Spice Films (Film Production), Spice Onshore Telecom BPO and Spice IT Peripherals (Printers & Computer Hardware). The new Spice logo will ensure that a common identity is created that is synergistic and relevant to all the companies. All these companies shall work in tandem to provide consumer delight.

First of its kind offer – Life time Validity on Maha Buck

Spice today announced the launch a first of its kind offer in India for Spice Megatalk pre-paid subscribers termed as the ‘Maha Buck’ offer. Maha Buck provides
Spice Megatalk subscribers Life time validity on a recharge of Rs. 3300.

The details of Spice Maha Buck Voucher are as follows:

MRP of Maha Recharge: Rs.3+300/-

Talktime on Maha Recharge: Rs.500/-

Validity on Maha Recharge: Life Long

Subscriber who avail this offer cannot have zero balance for consecutive 90 days, and will have to be on the Megatalk tariff plan.

About Spice Telecom

Spice is Punjab’s premier mobile phone service provider and is the first cellular operator in India to be ISO 9001-2000 certified for its entire operations. Spice has an extensive network across more than 205 cities and towns in the state, covering 95% of Punjab’s urban area. In addition, it also covers more than 3250 km of roads and highways in Punjab including connectivity on the National Highway and GT Road. Spice subscribers can roam on national and international networks. In fact, Spice has the highest International roaming coverage involving tie-ups with over 414 International operators across 199 countries.

Hutch gets 140 million dollar loan for expansion in india

Hutchison Essar Ltd, India’s fourth largest mobile-phone company, got a $140mn to expand its phone network in India

Hutchison Essar Ltd, India’s fourth largest mobile-phone company, got a $140mn to expand its phone network in India.
The deal is the first syndicated loan for Hutchison Essar, a joint venture between Hutchison Whampoa Ltd.’s Hong Kong-based Hutchison Telecommunications International Ltd. and the Essar Group in Mumbai.

The deal was arranged by Bank of America Securities LLC, N Bayerische Hypo-UND Vereinsbank AG, Chinatrust Commercial Bank, Rabobank NA and Raiffeisen Zentralbank Oesterreich AG.