Push for capacity includes focus on LTE-M and NB-IoT in addition to 5G
Ericsson and Dutch telco VodafoneZiggo announced they are working together to increase the capacity of the latter’s mobile network in the Netherlands. The agreement will initially focus on the roll-out of NB-IoT and LTE-M technologies across the country, before deploying 5G-ready Ericsson Radio System equipment.
Ericsson also said it has been selected as sole supplier for Vodafone’s macro radio network including 5G until the end of 2020.
The managed services partnership between Ericsson and VodafoneZiggo, which covers network rollout, network design and optimization, field services and core network deployment, will be extended until the end of 2020, the Swedish vendor said. Under this extended agreement, Ericsson said it will apply the latest advances in automation and network design and optimization to ensure the Vodafone network achieves maximum efficiency.
“Ericsson remains a valued strategic partner in supporting the Vodafone network. As with any long-term partnership agreement, it is crucial that the relationship is regularly reviewed and adjusted to reflect the business strategies. We look forward to continuing our partnership to enhance our operational performance and focus on Technology Leadership on which we recently have demonstrated a live network test reaching 792 Mbit/s,” said Eben Albertyn, executive director of technology at VodafoneZiggo.
Ericsson also highlighted that the strategic partnership with VodafoneZiggo will prepare the network for IoT enablement and stimulate the creation of IoT Things services for both consumers and enterprises.
Etisalat reaches 71 Gbps in 5G trial in Dubai
In other 5G news, Middle East telco Etisalat said it has achieved mobile data rates of 71Gbps in a recent 5G trial. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) telco used 2 gigahertz of bandwidth for its 5G tests, which are being carried out during Gitex Technology Week in Dubai. Etisalat also confirmed plans to launch a 5G network in the UAE by 2020.
Meanwhile, Etisalat has revealed that its infrastructure investment will reach approximately $815 million this year, with spending directed towards fixed and mobile network upgrades, robotics, internet of things (IoT) and artificial intelligence (AI). The telco’s 4G network currently reaches 97.8% of the country’s population.
