Nokia introduces GSM-based WiLL solution

NEW DELHI: Nokia has introduced a Global System for Mobile Communication (GSM) technology based Wireless in Local Loop (WiLL) solution for mobile operators. The India launch is part of Nokia's introducing the solution in key WiLL markets. Addressing a media briefing in New Delhi, Sanjay Bhasin, Director - India, strategy, Nokia Networks said that GSM was a perfectly optimal solution for offering WiLL service using the 800 MHz spectrum allocated for the purpose.

"The Nokia GSM 800 WiLL solution gives a significant number of operators, who need to deliver voice to mass markets, a strong incentive to deploy WiLL. GSM being a mass market technology, gives operators clear benefits from global economies of scale. Subscribers of GSM 800 WiLL can now enjoy the choices available with GSM handsets and features."

Speaking to CNS about the rationale behind launching the solution, Bhasin elaborated," WiLL and GSM are essentially based on the same technology. In terms of solutions, everything can be shared - the same base station using the same microwave, to a common switch for both the 8-digit and 10-digit subscribers. Today a mobility subscriber cannot ask for a discount simply because he wants to drive the card in Delhi only. So why should the service providers not take advantage of this and look at limited mobility as a viable business case?"

"A number of Indian operators have shown interest in the solution and advanced level talks are on," Bhasin added. He however refused to divulge specifics at the moment.
In a country like India, with the sharing of network infrastructure (like for example, Tata Teleservices has leased Spectra's fiber, Hathway uses Hughes Telecom infrastructure in Mumbai), existing GSM networks can be modified to support the 800 MHz WiLL band by simple network upgrades, resulting in a cost efficient approach to deploying and managing WiLL service.

The same standard GSN core and radio network technology, including billing and management solutions is also used for GSM 800. "This type of a deployment will lower not only the overall capital expenditure but also the operational costs of running the network. Nokia is primarily targeting the mobile operators," informed Bhasin, "though new entrants in the basic telephony segment could also deploy this solution."

"We have identified a growing need for cost-optimized terminals for emerging markets that have huge potential but also need attractive pricing," informed Nigel Rundstrom, vice president, product management and business development, Nokia mobile phones, APAC.
"The advantages of GSM technology in terms of technology maturity, high volumes providing economies of scale, are now coming to the GSM 800 frequency band as well as GSM 900 and 1800. This will help to further stimulate the Indian market where there is still much room for subscriber growth," he added.