Nokia Wins Hungarian 3G Contract

Nokia and Hungarian operator Pannon GSM have signed an agreement for the expansion of Pannon's GSM network and upgrade to EDGE in greater Budapest, as well as deployment of a Nokia WCDMA 3G circuit-switched core network for nationwide service. In addition, Nokia is providing a turnkey network implementation plus an extensive range of services.

Deliveries have already begun, and EDGE-based wireless broadband services have just been launched recently in Hungary.

"The Nokia EDGE radio network and 3G solution offers the best choice for Pannon GSM to provide high speed data services in Budapest region. Our customers will experience this as a seamless base upon which 3G services can be introduced," says Ove Fredheim, CEO, Pannon GSM. "In 2004, Pannon doubled its customer portfolio in the business segment, and we see that applications based on EDGE and 3G technology are ideal for this important customer group. We have just launched broadband services for their needs this February and many services will follow later on this year for the whole consumer segment."

Pannon GSM, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Norway's Telenor ASA, held a share of approximately 34% in the Hungarian mobile telecom market having a penetration ratio of over 87% at the end of 2004. Pannon GSM had nearly 3 million customers in late February 2005."

Posted to the site on 8th March 2005