Ericsson and Sonera sign GPRS contract

Ericsson and Sonera sign GPRS contract Ericsson and Finnish operator Sonera have signed a contract including Ericsson's packet-based GPRS system. This packet-switched datacom technology will enable Sonera to offer wireless Internet and other IP-based services at speeds up to 115 kbps - a more than tenfold increase over the current network speeds. GPRS is also an important step for operators in the evolution to third-generation (3G) networks. The Sonera order includes a complete GPRS system, including the IP-based core network infrastructure, packet switching products, and upgrading of existing radio products. The new GPRS-based services are expected to be available from Sonera during the year 2000. Ericsson's GPRS boosts speeds of current mobile networks, making it possible for operators to offer packet-switched IP services, wireless access to Internet and intranet, and other multimedia services at speeds up to 115 kbps. The Ericsson GPRS solution is an open standard solution, enabling multi-vendor interoperability. Ericsson has maintained a leadership position in wireless datacom networks for 10 years. The company has delivered dedicated packet data networks to wireless operators in more than 25 countries on five continents. By combining its strength in mobility and continuing to further embrace IP technology, Ericsson's objective is to provide users with anywhere, anytime access. Ericsson is the leading provider in the new telecoms world, with communications solutions that combine telecom and datacom technologies with freedom of mobility for the user. With more than 100,000 employees in 140 countries, Ericsson simplifies communications for its customers - network operators, service providers, enterprises and consumers - the world over. Please visit Ericsson's Press Room at: http://www.ericsson.se/pressroom FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT James Borup, Ericsson Corporate Communications Phone: +46 70 590 9261, E-mail: james.borup@lme.ericsson.se Jari J. Lehtonen, Account Manager, Mobile Systems Oy L M Ericsson Ab, Sales Unit Sonera Phone: +358 9 299 2102; E-mail: jari.j.lehtonen@ericsson.fi Pekka Keskiivari, Director, Mobile Services, Sonera Phone: + 358 2040 5615, E-mail: pekka.keskiivari@sonera.fi Company Information Sonera is Finland's leading telecommunications company with subsidiaries and associated companies in 14 countries. Internationally, Sonera is a forerunner in the rapidly growing business areas of mobile, data and media communications. In 1998, Sonera's revenues amounted to USD 1.9 billion and the profit before extraordinary items and taxes USD 404 million. The Group employs approximately 9 000 people. ------------------------------------------------------------ Please visit http://www.bit.se for further information The following files are available for download: http://www.bit.se/bitonline/1999/06/24/19990624BIT00030/bit0001.doc http://www.bit.se/bitonline/1999/06/24/19990624BIT00030/bit0002.pdf