Telecom equipment major Nokia
Siemens Networks announced that it has implemented automated device management
solution for Airtel Africa, in one of the world’s largest device management
deals.
The
company is also assisting Airtel in consolidating mobile internet browsing and
multimedia messaging service platforms to ensure fast browsing and advanced MMS.
With
this, customers of
Bharti Airtel in Africa can soon enjoy seamless
internet connectivity and simpler, more intuitive mobile data services.
Recently, Bharti Airtel said
it expects to touch revenues of $5 billion from its Africa operations by May
2013. Last year, in the largest telecom takeover by an Indian firm, Bharti had
acquired Kuwait-based Zain Telecom’s African business for about Rs 48,000
crore.
During
2010-11, Airtel’s Africa operations reported a net loss of Rs 480 crore, while
revenues stood at Rs 13,083 crore.
The
company made announcements involving several technology vendors including IBM.
The deals are expected to assist Airtel in improving its position in the
market.
As
part of the deal with Nokia Siemens Networks, Airtel will select Serve atOnce
Device Management (SADM) software to be implemented across affiliates in 16
African countries.
In
addition, Nokia Siemens Networks will
consolidate the operator’s existing multimedia messaging service (MMS)
platforms into one centrally managed virtual platform.
“Nokia Siemens Networks’ robust mobile device management
solution will allow our customers in Africa to enjoy the latest services by
enabling seamless internet connectivity and excellent customer care support.
The solution will benefit Airtel from reduced operational costs when
introducing new devices or services” said Manoj Kohli, CEO (International) and
joint managing director, Bharti Airtel.
Nokia Siemens Networks’
SADM will enable Bharti Airtel to remotely manage and configure user devices
for new data services. The software will also enable the operator to gain
valuable insights on device capabilities to make right business decisions when
introducing new services.
“The
shift towards smart networks that understand user preferences and enable
delivery of customized services is helping operators such as Bharti Airtel
deliver a superior mobile broadband experience. Nokia
Siemens Networks supports this transition by helping operators to manage user
experience better and deliver improved services seamlessly,” said Rajeev Suri,
chief executive officer of Nokia Siemens Networks.
The
contract also enables Nokia Siemens Networks to provide
its mobile internet browsing solution (MIBS) and multimedia messaging solution,
hosted on a virtualized and centrally managed VaaS platform. This will allow
Bharti Airtel to provide these services faster and cost efficiently to all its
customers across all affiliates in Africa.
By
Telecomlead.com Team
[email protected]
