Nokia Siemens Networks will deploy and integrate its Terminal Management Server (NTMS) device management solution into IDEA Cellular’s pan-Indian multivendor network. The contract covers all telecom circles in which IDEA operates, and includes also supply, installation, commissioning, and project management. The IDEA network continues to be supported by the multivendor, multitechnology NetAct network and service management solution.

With this contract, Nokia Siemens Networks becomes the largest device management solution provider in India. The solution will be ready for commercial operation by the end of the third quarter in 2008.

The solution enables IDEA Cellular to manage devices across its network remotely, securely and efficiently, updating customer settings for picture messaging, internet browsing and other important mobile services. New customers, as well as those changing devices, will therefore be given access to IDEA Cellular's full suite of applications and services with the maximum ease and speed.

“Data is emerging as a key revenue generator for us. Nokia Siemens Networks’ industry leading device management solution will allow us to remotely manage customer devices and improve customer satisfaction through easy and automated device configuration. We believe this will accelerate the launch of new data services,” said Sanjeev Aga, Managing Director, IDEA Cellular. “Nokia Siemens Networks is our strategic partner in transforming and modernizing our service management capability to meet the needs of our customers in a highly competitive market.”

“Device management solutions are critical for enhancing the end-customer experience. In markets like India, with high levels of churn, receiving correct settings automatically will help keep the customers satisfied and they are likely to stay longer with the operator,” said Vesa Tuomisto, Head of Service Management Business Line in Operations and Business Software Business Unit, Nokia Siemens Networks. “For the operators, our fully automated device management solution helps to eliminate the need for considerable call center resources that would have to manually help customers solve device configurations. Improved customer experience will have a positive effect on the bottom line.”

The Nokia Siemens Networks NTMS device management solution enables automatic over-the-air provisioning of mobile phones using Open Mobile Alliance (OMA) standardized technologies. In addition to OMA Client Provisioning and OMA Device Management open interfaces, it supports the most common device management technologies enabling operators to manage devices from different manufacturers using one device management solution. NTMS eliminates the need for end users to manage settings of new advanced services, thereby enabling rapid mobile services take-off.

The solution has been deployed to more than 40 customers servicing more than 300 million subscribers.