French mobile operator IIiad Group is expanding its partnership with Nokia to roll out 5G networks across France and Italy.
The 5G deal will focus on network modernisation and 5G introduction in France, and 5G introduction in Italy, eventually making 5G available to 17 million IIiad subscribers across both countries.
Iliad Group will install Nokia’s AirScale radio access technology, allowing it to capitalise on early 5G networks whilst supporting 4G/LTE and 5G in the same radio access system. IIiad Group will be able to offer new services to both consumers and businesses while also future-proofing the radio network. 5G massive MIMO antennas will also be installed so that Iliad subscribers can make the most of the ultra-low latency and high-bandwidth capabilities of 5G.
‘Future-proofing’
Thomas Reynaud, IIiad Group’s CEO, said, “We want to offer our customers the best possible 5G experience and that is why we have chosen to strengthen and accelerate our relationship with Nokia as we enter the 5G era. Nokia’s innovative 5G technologies and solutions will enable us to launch quickly and efficiently, delivering a superior network performance whilst also securing us against future challenges.”
Nokia has worked with IIiad Group in France since 2012 and in Italy since 2018 on the rollout of both 3G and 4G.
Tommi Uitto, President of Mobile Networks at Nokia, commented, “We are delighted to continue our long-standing relationship with IIiad to roll out 5G networks across France and Italy and build out a world-class network for businesses and consumers alike. The radio technologies will give Iliad the flexibility to quickly and smoothly launch a future-proof 5G network.”