Ericsson enables mobile positioning systems in India for AIRCEL

• Aircel subscribers to get better localized information through Ericsson's Mobile Positioning System (MPS) for Location Based Services (LBS)
• Ericsson is the sole supplier to provide multi-vendor network integration services
• Solution aims to make moving through traffic more efficient in a market where consumers spend nearly ten hours per week commuting

Aircel, one of the leading operators in India, has selected Ericsson to provide mobile positioning systems for its 2G and 3G subscribers. Aircel users can now get real time tracking, navigation information and information services while on the move.

Enterprises could also use this for effective resource management. This is Ericsson India's first contract managing the location-based services platform in a multi-vendor core network environment.

Ericsson Mobile Positioning Systems (MPS) will offer advanced Location Based Services (LBS) to Aircel subscribers and can support several positioning alternatives for GSM and WCDMA. That ranges from network-based methods with cell accuracy aimed for all terminals, to more accurate terminal-based methods using GPS positioning.

The WCDMA positioning method - Cell ID with round-trip time measurement -  will improve the positioning accuracy for 3G and 2G phones. The Ericsson MPS solution is scalable and easy to upgrade. As it uses the same system for GSM, WCDMA, circuit- and packet switching, this will be a cost-efficient and future-proof investment for Aircel.

A web-based survey conducted by Ericsson Consumer Lab in India revealed that the services most in demand are Family Finder (48%) and Navigation (52%). This lays a solid market foundation for the LBS-portfolio

Mallikarjun Rao, Chief Technology Officer Aircel, said: "There is huge potential in offering this value- added service to our consumers. Most Indians spend on average 90 minutes per day on the roads; location-based services will definitely increase efficiency and enhance the quality of their life.  Our belief in Ericsson technological superiority and their unparalleled support gives us the confidence to provide superior services to our customers."

Amarjeet Singh, Vice President & Customer Unit Head for Aircel, Ericsson India, says: "Aircel is a preferred partner for us and it is our pleasure to extend this ongoing relationship. The advanced location based intelligent service will not only provide information pertaining to a particular area but also be an invaluable analytical tool for addressing issues such as public safety and security, health care, emergency services, and so on."

As part of this three-year contract for supply and support, Ericsson will supply its Mobile Positioning Centre (GMPC and SMPC) and features that support various applications to Aircel.

Starting this July, Aircel subscribers will be able to use the service to find nearby restaurants or gyms, find the fastest route home, or keep tabs on children or the elderly with a tracking service.

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