" ITREALMS: MTN begins test calls on 3G platform

Saturday, May 12, 2007

MTN begins test calls on 3G platform

Leading Third Generation (3G) telecommunication operator in Nigeria, MTN Nigeria Communications Limited, has announced the commence of the trial calls on its 3G Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS) platform.

The trial that took off Monday, according to MTN’s Chief Technical Officer (CTO), Mr. Karl Toriola, was successfully made with “voice and video” testing.

Mr. Toriola confirmed that call testing of its 3G network has commenced across three major cities in Nigeria, namely Lagos, Abuja and Port Harcourt, stressing that the telco is working tirelessly to complete the ring and on time as scheduled.

MTN’s speedy roll out of the 3G, has been boosted by its existing 3,500-kilometre fibre optic network, launched in Abuja mid last year.

In addition, he said, MTN understands the importance of the 3G telephony, hence, “We’re deploying facilities at a very fast pace as we‘re certain that most customers on the MTN network are eager to switch on their phones to enjoy voice and video calls made.”

Mr. Toriola noted that those who have 3G-enabled mobile phones, would be able to access Global System for Mobile Communications (GSM) and 3G networks as soon as they subscribe for 3G services.

Key value of 3G telephony, he said, is the ability to transport high-speed data over the wireless network with full mobility.

“The high speed mobility enables Internet browsing, TV, video calls and all forms of content and value added services, to be at the fingertips of customers,” he said.

Mr. Toriola added that work is already at an advanced level to guarantee that all customers on the MTN network would be able to enjoy the advantage of making crystal clear voice and video calls on their 3G-enabled phones.

Also commenting, MTN Nigeria’s chief executive, Mr. Ahmad Farroukh, said the deployment is in fulfilment of the company’s promise to the people of Nigeria and particularly its subscribers.

“This is a huge milestone for MTN and indeed for Nigeria,” he said, stressing that already numerous enquiries are coming from all nooks and crannies of the country on when MTN will roll out its 3G facilities.

“It is a mark of confidence in the company and its ability to consistently deliver value,” Mr. Farroukh said.

He emphasised on the commitment of the company to continuously live up to its responsibility to its customers and the country as a whole, hence MTN is keen in deploying a world class 3G telephony facilities that would not only stimulate an Information and Communication Technology (ICT) revolution in the country, but to ensure that customers enjoy excellent services.

MTN, it would be recalled was among the four telcos who made pay $150 Million for the recently awarded 3G licenses, by the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC).

ITREALMS Online ... delivering news for ICT4D

No comments:

Featured post @ITREALMS

Beclouding eWaste recycling in Nigeria - ITREALMS

Features, Telecoms Clinic@ITREALMS ... making leadership SENSE with digital news! This report showcases some of the key challenges faced by ...