Nokia is supplying leading Australian mobile operator Cable & Wireless Optus’ GPRS core network.
The Nokia GPRS core network solution will be integrated into Cable & Wireless Optus’ existing GSM 900 and 1800 network allowing the rollout of packet-based mobile internet services to Cable & Wireless Optus subscribers across Australia.
Cable & Wireless Optus will be amongst the first carriers in the world to have a commercial grade SMG31 compatible network.
The greatest advantage of GPRS for mobile subscribers lies in the possibility to have continuous connectivity to the internet, the corporate intranet or a WAP portal, for fast mobile access to new content-rich services.
Nokia is at the forefront of development and implementation of GPRS infrastructure for mobile operators. The Nokia GPRS solution includes the industry's strongest and most efficient core GPRS system and Connecting@Care support services including applications consultancy and systems integration expertise to integrate the GPRS core network into the existing service delivery and billing environment.
"We are delighted to be working with Nokia on delivering the world's best data services for mobile customers," said Keir Preedy, Director Mobile Networks and Systems, Cable & Wireless Optus.
Since August 1999, Nokia has delivered and implemented GPRS networks to almost 50 carriers worldwide including leading operators in Europe, USA, Asia and China, and now has the largest installed base of any supplier.
SMG31 is the first specification that fully meets the GSM Release 97 standard enabling the GPRS network to be fully capable of supporting commercial packet data services, unlike existing pre-commercial pilot systems.
"Nokia is pleased to be able to support Cable & Wireless Optus in bringing the Mobile Information Society to Australia. With the implementation of the GPRS core all the enablers are in place for innovative, fast, always connected mobile data services to be brought to consumers in this market," said Kevin Brough, Managing Director, Nokia Australia, "Nokia has been working with Cable & Wireless Optus for over eight years and we have been supporting them every step of the way through the evolution of their network, this deal is a result of this close co-operation.
Nokia is paving the way to the mobile information society with its innovative products and solutions. Nokia is the leading mobile phone supplier and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks, related services as well as multimedia terminals. In 1999, net sales totaled EUR 19.8 billion (USD 19.9 billion). Headquartered in Finland, Nokia is listed on the New York (NOK), Helsinki, Stockholm, London, Frankfurt and Paris stock exchanges and employs more than 60,000 people.
Further information:
Communications Department, Nokia Networks
Tel. (Int.) + 358 9 5113 8195
Fax (Int.) + 358 9 5113 8199
Email nokia.networks@nokia.com
www.nokia.com