Ericsson to supply WCDMA/HSPA network to Smart

MANILA, Philippines - Ericsson has been selected by Smart Communications, Inc. the Philippines’ largest GSM operator, to provide a WCDMA/HSPA network, enabling high-speed data mobile broadband across the country.

Under the agreement, Ericsson will be Smart’s main supplier of the 2G/3G common core packet data network and will also be one of the main suppliers of the radio access network in the Philippines. The network will have the latest HSPA functionality to enable Smart to offer the highest possible 3G (WCDMA/HSPA) speeds available in the world today. Ericsson will also provide services, network design, network deployment, training and system integration to Smart.

Orlando Vea, chief wireless advisor of Smart, says: “We are launching a much more powerful and more versatile network that will put the power of the Internet in the pocket of Filipinos wherever they go. This partnership with Ericsson will enable us to offer our customers exciting possibilities that will enrich their lives and enhance their communications and mobile lifestyle experience.”

Ericsson Philippines president and country manager Rajendra Pangrekar says this contract is “a remarkable milestone for Ericsson as it will enable us to launch a commercial HSPA project in the Philippines with one of the largest mobile operators in the region.”

Magnus Gall, Ericsson vice-president Ericsson Philippines, further states that “We are pleased to expand our partnership with SMART, This contract reinforces Ericsson’s technology leadership and will provide SMART with DSL-like data speeds.”