NEWS
KSA
Nokia and Zain look to build the next-gen Networks in the Kingdom
Nokia and Zain KSA have signed an MOU to work together on developing 5G and define a clear path toward building the next-generation ultra-broadband networks in Saudi Arabia. The companies will combine their expertise to develop use cases, requirements and deployment scenarios for 5G technologies.
The ultra-low latency and high reliability of 5G technology will enable connectivity for billions of devices in IoT. IoT use cases including connected mobility, industrial networking, smart factories and offices, remote healthcare, virtual reality and Ultra High Definition video services will help many sectors grow exponentially. While Nokia and Zain Saudi Arabia already started working together to transform Jeddah into a smart city, further collaboration through the new agreement will take that to the next level towards smart, safe and sustainable cities across the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Peter Kaliaropoulos of Zain Saudi Arabia, said:“ Zain and Nokia have been closely working together for over a decade and have achieved many MEA- and Saudifirsts * in our joint endeavor to bring innovative mobile broadband services and world-class customer experience to the Kingdom. With this MoU, we are now taking this strong partnership to the next level, evolving toward building the
next-generation 5G networks. We are confident again that in this journey we will mark many more industry-firsts, which will enable us to play our role in the digital transformation of the country toward the knowledge based economy.”
Eng. Sultan Abdulaziz AlDeghaither, Chief Technology Officer at Zain Saudi Arabia, said:“ Working with our partner Nokia, we aim to provide the next generation ultrabroadband services. This agreement will take us closer to providing commercial 5G network in the Saudi market by introducing 4.5G Pro and 4.9G technologies to Zain’ s network during the course of 2017.
According to telecom experts, 5G networks will not only provide faster internet speeds, but also enable new applications such as IoT broadcast-like services and lifeline critical communications in times of natural disaster.”
STC look to develop eSIM Technology with strong partners
Saudi Telecom Company( STC), Oberthur Technologies( OT), a leading global provider of embedded security software products and services, and Huawei have teamed up to be a pioneer in the introduction of remote subscription management solutions and develop new opportunities around eSIM technology.
In this regard, STC is proud to announce that eSIM trial has been conducted successfully using GSMA compliant subscription management platform from OT and Huawei smartwatch. The eSIM technology allows users to order, install, and activate profiles over the air in a seamless, secure, and convenient way. It also brings additional advantage for smartwatch users as it enable them to make calls directly from the smartwatch even if the mobile phone is offline.
OT’ s solution is compliant with the GSMA roadmap and has exceptional pioneering tier 1 references in Europe and across the globe. OT offers end-to-end solution to securely and remotely
change and manage subscriptions, with minimum impact on MNOs systems and infrastructures. Nasser Al-Nasser, Senior Vice President, Technology and Operations, STC, said:“ We are delighted about our collaboration with OT and Huawei to pave the way for the new wave of connected M2M and Consumers’ devices. We think that OT’ s subscription management solutions and Huawei smartwatches will accelerate the introduction of eSIM technology and open new business opportunities”.
Pierre Barrial, Managing Director of the Mobile Network Operators business at OT, said:“ OT is thrilled to have been selected by the largest ICT services provider in the MENA Region, and to continue its collaboration with Huawei. OT’ s role is to offer the most efficient and most secure technologies possible, capable of responding to the needs of OEMs, MNOs and consumers. OT is proud to demonstrate the 1st subscription management reference in the MENA Region together with STC and Huawei”.
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