Nokia Siemens Networks to upgrade Idea Cellular network

Telecom equipment vendor Nokia Siemens Network will upgrade the existing mobile services network of Idea Cellular to enable it to carry high-end data — GPRS services.     

The services will be enabled by Nokia Siemens Networks’ GPRS (general packet radio service) technology and Unified Charging Solution (UCS evolve), NSN said in a statement.     

Idea Cellular, the country's fifth largest telecom operator, is upgrading its network in 22 areas to tap the lucrative value added data services market. By March 2010, IDEA subscribers will be able to enjoy multimedia messaging, email, web browsing, online music and other innovative mobile services, it said.     

It will add GPRS capability to 10 IDEA telecom service areas while the existing GPRS capability in 12 other areas will be expanded.    

"The value added services market in India holds tremendous potential. The greater opportunity lies in data services, and in expanding our capabilities and service portfolio in this area.     

"The right technology foundation is fundamental to our success, and it needs to include not just a method of delivering services, but of monetizing them effectively," IDEA Cellular Chief Technology Officer Anil Tandan said.     

As part of the project, Nokia Siemens Networks has also designed and will implement a charging solution that will enable Idea to use a single system across these locations for the new services for both prepaid and postpaid subscribers.