Ericsson to be sole supplier of nationwide mobile network expansion and upgrade by Entel PCS in Chile
Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) will be the sole supplier for a nationwide GSM/WCDMA/HSPA network expansion and upgrade by leading Chilean operator Entel PCS. The deal builds on earlier Ericsson-Entel contracts and will allow Entel subscribers to access high-speed mobile broadband throughout Chile.
Under the three-year agreement, Ericsson will provide GSM/WCDMA/HSPA radio access and common core network equipment to expand and upgrade Entel PCS's existing mobile network across Chile. Ericsson will also provide a wide range of professional services, including network design, deployment and systems integration. Deliveries will begin in the first quarter of 2008.
Ericsson's solutions will enable the uptake of mobile broadband throughout Chile and set the stage for the introduction of a suite of innovative new services to Entel PCS clients. The move follows Ericsson's deployment of Entel PCS's WCDMA/HSPA network in Chile in December 2006, the first such network in Latin America.
Hernan Marió, CEO of Entel PCS, says: "We are confident that with Ericsson's proven global expertise in mobile networks and technologies, as well as their commitment to 3G, Ericsson can help us to maintain and improve the quality of the 2G/3G services we offer our customers."
Gino Montalto, President of Ericsson Chile, says: "This agreement cements Entel PCS's market-leading position and will provide its customers with the latest telecoms services. The deal also reflects the close strategic partnership between Entel PCS and Ericsson, and we are proud to be selected as the supplier in this network expansion and upgrade."
Ericsson is shaping the future of Mobile and Broadband Internet communications through its continuous technology leadership. Providing innovative solutions in more than 140 countries, Ericsson is helping to create the most powerful communication companies in the world.
Read more at http://www.ericsson.com
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About Entel PCS
Entel PCS is the mobile subsidiary of the Entel Group, a telecommunications leader in Chile. Since its creation in 1998, the company has been a competitive force in the area of mobile telephony, providing quality service, innovation and wide geographical coverage including Antarctica and Easter Island. Entel PCS was the first operator in Latin America to introduce GSM, GPRS and HSPA services. Entel PCS currently has more than 5.5 million subscribers.