Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL), the third-largest telecom operator in the country, has awarded Ericsson a major 4G/5G contract in key circles of its operation. This will help Ericsson increase its market share in India's network business. Ericsson will help Vodafone Idea deploy 4G and 5G across telecom circles where it is already working with the telco. In addition, Ericsson will provide 4G and 5G services in the telecom circles of Delhi, Kerala, Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan, thereby substantially increasing its footprint and market share with Vi.
Ericsson will deploy its mid-band Massive MIMO antenna-integrated radios that are energy-efficient and lightweight in nature. 5G deployment would be crucial for the telco.
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"Collaborating with Ericsson will enable Vi to modernize its 4G network and rapidly deploy a world class 5G network. 5G deployment will enable us to seamlessly manage the growing data traffic on the Vi network, provide secure and reliable connectivity while enhancing the customer experience from the network," said Akshaya Moondra, CEO of Vodafone Idea Limited (VIL).
Andres Vicente, Head of Ericsson’s Market Area in Southeast Asia, Oceania and India, says, "5G is a critical enabler of digital transformation and economic growth. With Ericsson’s advanced technology, we aim to empower Vi to deliver fast, reliable, and scalable 5G services for its customers."
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Much recently, Vodafone Idea Limited closed a similar deal with Nokia. Nokia has the largest share of the business pie from Vodafone Idea. The telco is able to place orders with Nokia, Ericsson and Samsung because the telco recently raised more than Rs 20,000 crore from the promoters and FPO (follow on public offer).
Vi has already confirmed that their 5G rollout will start in last 2024. The telco will launch 5G in all key circles of the country. The major focus would be identifying the areas in which these key circles would bring the most benefits with respect to 5G rollout.
