Nokia has signed an agreement with leading Slovak operator Globtel to supply Nokia GPRS core network infrastructure. The system will help drive the growth of mobile data business in the Slovak market by giving subscribers "always-connected" access to the Mobile Internet.
With the Nokia solution, Globtel will be the first mobile operator in Slovakia with a complete commercially capable GPRS network. The Nokia GPRS system is fully Internet Protocol (IP) compatible and can support Mobile Internet services such as data, video streaming and improved WAP services.
"The mobile phone is no longer used purely as a voice communication instrument. With the instant Web and WAP access that always-connected GPRS service brings, a mobile now takes on a new role as a restrictionless Internet and intranet connection tool," said Pavol Lancaric, General Manager of Globtel, "We are pleased to be cooperating with Nokia on this project which will enable the development of internet and data services for Globtel customers."
Nokia is offering its unique GPRS solution, including the GPRS core as well as the necessary BSS upgrades. Nokia's standards-compliant GPRS system enables operators to be the first to launch fully commercial GPRS services as existing second-generation networks evolve to the 3rd Generation, while also optimising their radio network resources thanks to the spectral efficiency of GPRS.
"This agreement with Globtel further strengthens Nokia's position in the Central Eastern European market and underlines Nokia's position as a world leader in GPRS," said Antti Jarvinen, Business Development Manager, Nokia Networks, Slovakia, "Nokia has been delivering GPRS systems that support the latest commercial standards, network efficiency and international roaming. And we have done this faster than any other vendor."
The Nokia GPRS solution includes the industry's most mature and scaleable carrier-class core GPRS system, including applications consultancy and systems integration expertise to integrate the GPRS core network into the existing service delivery and billing environment. Nokia has delivered and implemented GPRS core networks to leading operators in Europe, USA, Asia and China, and has clearly the largest installed base of any GPRS supplier. To date, more approximately 20 of the GPRS networks supplied by Nokia -- nearly half of the total -- have announced the commercial availability of GPRS service.
Globtel, a.s., is the leading mobile operator in Slovakia, which started the fifth year of commercial activities in January 2001. It is owned 64% by France Telecom, 36% by Slovak state companies (Slovenský plynárenský priemysel, Slovenské elektrárne, Západoslovenské energetické závody, Stredoslovenské energetické závody, Východoslovenské energetické závody). The number of active customers at the end of February exceeded 694 000.
Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on six major exchanges.
Further information:
Communications Department, Nokia Networks
Tel. + 358 (0) 7180 38193
Email nokia.networks@nokia.com
www.nokia.com