expand Siminn's WCDMA network into the 900MHz band. While geographically diverse, the objectives of both projects is, ultimately, to make mobile accessible to those who have yet to enjoy the capabilities of mobile broadband.

Ericsson in mobile broadband pilot to boost social and economic development in Bangladesh

Aug. 12, 2008 -- Ericsson is launching a pilot in Bangladesh to demonstrate how to improve productivity and quality of life in the country with the use of high-speed internet services through 3G/HSPA technology.

The pioneering project, called Alokito Bangladesh (Enlightened Bangladesh), will demonstrate high-speed internet access and a range of advanced services - including mobile health and mobile learning - in the region of the capital, Dhaka, from early August to the end of October this year. Ericsson is seeking to showcase how the technology can be a major catalyst for social and economic empowerment by bridging the digital divide in this developing market.

Situated on the Brahmaputra river delta on the Bay of Bengal, this nation of 153.5 million people faces a number of economic and social challenges, but it has also come a long way, achieving consistent GDP growth during the last 10 years and telecommunications have played a pivotal role in this growth.

The pilot will demonstrate m-learning through interactive long-distance classes led by remote teachers, while mobile health will demonstrate the potential of distance health care in the country, highlighting the potential benefits of bringing basic services to communities that lack them today. Other services included in the pilot are m-surveillance, video calling and entertainment.

Manzurul Alam, Chairman, Bangladesh Telecommunication Regulatory Commission (BTRC) says: "BTRC is striving relentlessly to introduce affordable new technology services that benefit the Bangladeshi people. BTRC welcomes all initiatives that work towards unveiling new opportunities and building a modern and affordable ICT portfolio for Bangladeshi consumers. BTRC is happy to support Ericsson in their demonstration of 3G/HSPA technology. I believe there would be immense benefits for Bangladeshi telecom subscribers by gaining high-speed mobile internet access through 3G/HSPA technology in the near future."

Arun Bansal, President, Ericsson Bangladesh, says: "This pioneering project will showcase the full potential of broadband services for the first time in the country and how an efficient and affordable 3G/HSPA broadband service can help serve as a blueprint for the widespread introduction of internet connectivity."

Ericsson is conducting the 3G trial by using the site and transmission networks of three telecom operators - Warid Telecom International Bangladesh, Grameenphone, and Telecom Malaysia International (Bangladesh), which operates under the brand name AKTEL. Ericsson is using partners for m-learning and for mobile health.

Bangladesh has an estimated 43 million mobile subscribers.

Ericsson expands Síminn's WCDMA network into 900MHz band

Aug. 13, 2008 -- Ericsson has formed a strategic partnership with leading Icelandic operator Síminn through a contract to expand its WCDMA/HSPA network into the 900MHz band. This will enable Síminn to deliver enhanced mobile data services to remote areas across Iceland.

Under the two-year agreement, Ericsson will be the sole supplier of WCDMA/HSPA radio access equipment and the GSM/WCDMA common core network. Ericsson will also expand Síminn's GSM network, upgrade its software and deliver a range of professional services, including deployment and systems integration.

With the expansion, Síminn will become one of the world's first operators to launch a WCDMA network in the 900MHz band, and will be in a better position to serve its subscribers in remote areas. Ericsson's WCDMA/HSPA solution for the 900MHz band provides extended coverage because of improved radio-wave signal strength at lower frequencies, making it easier to provide mobile broadband services in rural areas as well as improved indoor coverage in urban areas.

Sævar Freyr Þráinsson, President of Síminn, says: "Iceland is a very competitive market and we need a strong and reliable partner to ensure our success. The agreement with Ericsson gives Síminn the opportunity to meet increasing subscriber demands for exciting new mobile services."

Lars Tofft, President of Ericsson Denmark, says: "This agreement further strengthens our relationship with Síminn, and we are looking forward to help them provide cutting-edge mobile services across Iceland. Access to innovative mobile broadband services, anywhere and any time, opens new and exciting opportunities for the Icelandic consumers."

Information Source:    Ericsson