Espoo, Finland - Nokia is expanding and modernizing PORTA's GSM/EDGE network in Ecuador under a USD77 million agreement.  PORTA, the leading mobile operator in Ecuador with almost two million customers throughout Ecuador, and nationwide GSM services, will increase its subscriber capacity with an additional 1 million subscribers allowing Nokia to continue as PORTA's sole GSM/EDGE infrastructure supplier.

 

Under the expansion agreement Nokia is supplying a complete range of GSM/EDGE infrastructure equipment and services to enable PORTA to further expand and modernize its network. Deliveries are ongoing and the network is expected to be operational by the end of 2004.

 

PORTA´s main objective for this expansion is to increase and continue giving their existing and future customers premium quality service.  Expanding the network allows PORTA the opportunity to provide the best quality in communication services.

 

The technology that Nokia and PORTA have introduced to Ecuador is one of the most advanced GSM/EDGE based network in the Americas, which allows a new era of services for Ecuadorian cellular users. This technology will give to subscribers the first step towards the next generation of 3G mobile services.

 

"We are very proud that we are able to contribute to the development of Ecuadorian wireless communications in providing products and services that promote communication and the adoption of new mobile services in the country," says Ruben Moron, Account Manager, Networks, Nokia Ecuador.

 

As part of the offering, Nokia will supply its GSM/EDGE core and radio-access network infrastructure. In addition to the network equipment, Nokia will provide expansions to the Nokia NetAct(TM) network and service management system, network planning, installation, and project management service for efficient network ramp-up, as well as radio network optimization for enhancing network quality. A wide range of care services, including software maintenance, emergency support and spare part management services, will help maintain the competitiveness of the network.

 

About PORTA

PORTA has been operating since 1993 and is the mobile operator leader in Ecuador with national service.  PORTA is part of America Movil group (AMX), the telecommunications company leader in wireless services in Latin América with diverse operations in the American Continent and more than 50 million of subscribers in the region.

For more information visit our web site www.porta.net

 

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. www.nokia.com

 

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Nokia

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Email: press.office@nokia.com

 

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