Nokia Networks has won a 3G contract to improve Bharti Airtel’s, the country’s largest mobile operator by subscribers and revenue, network across Mumbai, West Bengal and Bihar circles. The financial terms of the contract were not disclosed.

Nokia Networks will deploy Nokia’s single radio access network, an advanced platform, for the operator, Nokia Networks said in a statement.

The deal includes implementation of a dual band, dual carrier 3G network and refarming of 900 MHz spectrum to complement Mumbai’s existing 3G network on 2100 MHz. This will enable higher throughput and thus improved 3G services for Bharti Airtel’s customers, it added.

“We continue to offer data services like One Touch Internet, Re 1 entertainment store et al empowering millions across the country to leverage the power of mobile internet on our smartphone network. The association with Nokia is in line with this and will enable millions of customers to experience an enhanced 3G network in these circles,” said Abhay Savargaonkar, Director Network Services Group at Bharti Airtel.

“With Indian subscribers increasingly looking for high-speed mobile broadband services, 3G is a very important technology option that operators in India need to embrace to fulfil the demands of their subscribers,” said Rohan Dhamija, Partner and Head of India and South Asia, Analysys Mason.

“Expanding 3G networks as in this deal, and upgrading the existing 2G networks to 3G across the country by operators will allow subscribers to enjoy rich multi-media applications and services such as movies, online games and sports like cricket without buffering on their mobile screen. Ubiquitous 3G network coverage in India means availability of high-speed broadband services to subscribers and increased revenue for operators,” he added.

rajesh.kurup@thehindu.co.in

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