Spain gears up for first 4G wireless network

MUMBAI, INDIA: Alcatel-Lucent is helping Telefónica in its initiative to deliver superfast 4G mobile broadband services to people in Europe with the deployment of LTE technology that will enable the launch of the first 4G wireless network in Spain.

According to a release, the 4G pre-commercial pilot networks in Madrid and Barcelona — based on LTE (Long Term Evolution) mobile broadband technology - will enable Telefonica to test different applications and services that can take advantage of the blazingly fast Internet connections that 4G LTE delivers. The project will also give Telefonica the opportunity to explore the overall performance and cost advantages of the technology.

4G LTE technology provides consumers and businesses with a mobile internet experience comparable to the fastest “landline” connections, bringing broadband services into peoples’ homes and offices, unlocking a wealth of services like high-definition video, streaming music, mobile video games, and high-speed access to web services such as social networks - all delivered on the go.

The release added that Alcatel-Lucent will bring to this project the experience and expertise developed building and launching the world’s largest and most advanced 4G LTE network in the US. This technology will enable Telefonica’s customers to benefit from the same compelling, high-quality experience enjoyed by consumers in the US.

Stephen Carter, President, Europe, Middle East and Africa for Alcatel-Lucent, said: “This project represents an important step forward in Telefonica’s plans to help lead the transition to 4G in Europe, and offer an unmatched mobile broadband experience to the people of Spain. It also opens a new chapter in our relationship with Telefonica, as we join them as a partner on their journey to the next generation of wireless communications.”

For this project Alcatel-Lucent will provide Telefonica with a complete, end-to-end 4G LTE solution — including LTE base stations (eNodeBs), all-IP wireless Evolved Packet Core (EPC), and subscriber data management capabilities based on our IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) portfolio.  Alcatel-Lucent also will build, operate and maintain the network on Telefonica’s behalf allowing Telefonica to focus on developing the best service for their customers while taking advantage of Alcatel-Lucent’s world-class operations experience.