NSN takes NTT DOCOMO to a new level with location-based services

TOKYO, JAPAN: Nokia Solutions and Networks provides NTT DOCOMO, INC. with its Advanced Location System which supports Assisted Global Navigation Satellite System (A-GLONASS) positioning technology, thus contributing to even greater convenience in location positioning.

As the number of smartphone users continues to grow, demand for location-based services such as navigation, local information services and advertisements, concierge services and check-in applications is also on the rise. In urban areas with high-rise buildings, however, it is challenging to acquire enough visible GPS satellites needed for positioning. By adopting A-GLONASS positioning technology, the number of visible GPS satellites can be supplemented with GLONASS satellites, thus improving the positioning success rate.

"Location-based services are clearly important to customers," said Hiroshi Nakamura, Managing Director of Core Network Development Department at NTT DOCOMO. "We have adopted A-GLONASS positioning so that our customers can use location- based services whenever and wherever. In future, our customers will be able to enjoy location-based services even in places where buildings are packed closely together."

"Based on the longstanding collaboration between our two companies, NSN's sound understanding of NTT DOCOMO's location-based service requirements has enabled us to assist in its adoption of A-GLONASS positioning technology," said Michael Clever, vice president, Voice and IP Transformation at NSN. "We built the A-GLONASS solution to address the increasing customer need for personalized high-accuracy positioning services, especially in densely inhabited locations. High-end positioning services also offer an opportunity for new revenue sources for operators."