Vodafone today announces that it has selected Nokia as its 3G network infrastructure partner in Australia and New Zealand.
The decision marks an important step towards the availability of Vodafone's 3G services in Australia and New Zealand. With significantly faster data rates and greater capacity, customers will be able to experience the huge benefits of 3G services, by being able to access more services, faster.
The main role of Nokia will be to partner Vodafone Australia and New Zealand in the establishment of 3G network infrastructure. In addition to the provision of infrastructure, Nokia is expected to have a key role in network planning, optimisation and operations. The partnership with Nokia is new for Australia and builds on the existing relationship in New Zealand where Vodafone is also out to tender for site acquisition and construction partners.
Thomas Geitner, Chief Technology Officer, Vodafone Group, said:
"The selection of Nokia to supply Vodafone 3G network equipment in Australia and New Zealand demonstrates how the global synergies of the Vodafone Group work effectively across the world.
"Vodafone is delighted to utilise Nokia's international expertise, technical skills and local presence as we further evolve mobile services for our customers in Australia and New Zealand. 3G networks will allow Vodafone to drive more usage, offer higher quality content and entertainment and increase business productivity through wireless broadband access."
(c) Vodafone Group 2004. VODAFONE is a trade mark of the Vodafone Group. Other company names mentioned herein may be the trade marks of their respective owners.
For further information:
Vodafone Group
Tim Brown
Group Corporate Affairs Director
Tel: +44 (0) 1635 673310
Investor Relations
Melissa Stimpson
Darren Jones
Tel: +44 (0) 1635 673310
Media Relations
Bobby Leach
Ben Padovan
Jon Earl
Tel: +44 (0) 1635 673310
Tavistock Communications
Lulu Bridges
Justin Griffiths
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7920 3150
Vodafone Group Plc