MTS Selects Ericsson as Exclusive LTE Supplier

• MTS to offer customers dual access HSPA Evolution and LTE services
  
  
• Ericsson exclusive supplier of LTE network
  
  
• Contract includes radio network, Evolved Packet Core network, policy control and subscriber management

TORONTO, June 21, 2012 /CNW/ - Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC) today announced it has been selected by MTS Inc. (MTS), as the exclusive supplier for its next-generation LTE network. By evolving the operator's existing network, Ericsson will enable MTS to provide LTE to existing HSPA Evolution customers while ensuring their devices still work in areas where LTE coverage is not present.  MTS plans to launch the service commercially during 2012 for customers in Manitoba.

Mark Henderson, President and CEO, Ericsson Canada Inc. says: "By deploying dual access HSPA Evolution and LTE services, MTS is demonstrating the smooth path operators can take to upgrade their existing infrastructure more effectively. The evolution of existing packet core nodes to Evolved Packet Core will make new capabilities available through software upgrades, minimizing the need for operators to deploy and integrate new network equipment."

The agreement also includes deployment of Ericsson's Home Subscriber Server (HSS) and Ericsson's base stations, as well as enhancements to Ericsson's Operations Support System for the dual access functionality. The current Service-Aware Charging and Control solution from Ericsson will also be integrated with the new LTE/EPC network, to provide advanced policy control functionality.  Ericsson will also provide MTS with LTE operational readiness consulting services that will transfer knowledge to MTS so that MTS can ensure the smooth operation of its LTE network post launch.

"Our upcoming launch of MTS's 4G LTE network powered by Ericsson demonstrates our commitment to providing our customers the most innovative products and services available," said Mike Strople, Chief Technology Officer, MTS Allstream. "With the 4G LTE network, our customers will be able to take advantage of the speed and connectivity offered by this world leading technology."

Ericsson has signed 65 LTE/EPC contracts in 29 countries on five continents. The number of people around the world covered by LTE/EPC services is 325 million and 215 million of them are served by Ericsson networks.

LTE, the next generation of mobile communication technology, enables the fast transfer of huge amounts of data in an efficient and cost-effective way, optimizing the use of the frequency spectrum. With increased speed and decreased latency, consumers can enjoy a wide range of applications - such as lag-free web browsing, online gaming, social media and video conferencing - effortlessly, while on the move. LTE will meet the demands of new and enhanced mobile internet applications of the future.

Ericsson continues to drive open standards and has had the greatest influence on the LTE specifications released to date. Ericsson expects to hold 25 percent of all essential patents related to LTE, which will make it the standard's largest single patent holder.

NOTES TO EDITORS

Ericsson Press Release:

Ericsson selected as exclusive supplier to MTS for province-wide high speed network overlay: http://www.ericsson.com/ca/news/091111_mts_254740099_c?query=MTS

Download high-resolution photos and broadcast-quality video at www.ericsson.com/press

Ericsson is the world's leading provider of communications technology and services. We are enabling the Networked Society with efficient real-time solutions that allow us all to study, work and live our lives more freely, in sustainable societies around the world.

Our offering comprises services, software and infrastructure within Information and Communications Technology for telecom operators and other industries. Today more than 40 percent of the world's mobile traffic goes through Ericsson networks and we support customers' networks servicing more than 2.5 billion subscribers. 

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