O2 improves network with Nokia Siemens deal

Mobile phone operator aims to improve capacity, coverage and performance

Mobile phone operator O2 has opted to modernise its radio network and improve capacity, coverage and performance using Nokia Siemens Networks' technology.

The three-year deal means Nokia Siemens Networks will provide around two-thirds of O2's 3G access network in the UK, covering the south of England.

Under the contract, Nokia Siemens Networks will supply its Flexi Multiradio Base Station, Radio Network Controller and its NetAct network management system.

The deal also covers services including network implementation, project management, advanced technical support and consultancy services.

Nokia Siemens is also providing its Serve atOnce Traffica solution, which monitors service quality and will help O2 monitor and respond to its network intelligently, thus improving customer service, the company said.

"Smartphone users want to stay connected to the network all the time, and are increasingly demanding high-speed data services," said Nigel Purdy, CTO at O2 UK.

"We have a long-standing relationship with [Nokia Siemens Networks] and based on its past track record, we rely on its expertise in expanding and modernising our 3G network to deliver the best possible experience to our customers."