UNITEL and Ericsson are launching a network modernization initiative in Angola to enhance connectivity. The upgrade focuses on delivering Enhanced Mobile Broadband and Fixed Wireless Access services, utilizing advanced 5G technologies for greater customization and efficiency. Successful trials of the 5G Standalone network underline the initiative’s potential for improving services like VoLTE and high-speed applications, contributing to economic growth.
UNITEL, together with Ericsson, is launching an advanced network modernization initiative to improve connectivity in Angola. This upgrade aims to deliver Enhanced Mobile Broadband and Fixed Wireless Access services, which are essential for economic development and the implementation of high-speed, low-latency applications.
Ericsson has transformed UNITEL S.A.’s core network by deploying its dual-mode 5G Core, IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS), and Cloud Native Infrastructure solutions. This innovative architecture combines 4G and 5G technologies on a single platform, enabling network slicing, exposure, and edge capabilities, thereby enhancing voice and data services over a 5G standalone (5G SA) network.
The dual-mode 5G Core integrates Evolved Packet Core (EPC) and 5G Core technologies and is designed on cloud-native, microservices principles. This integration simplifies the transition from legacy 2G and 3G voice services to 4G and 5G networks and facilitates real-time communication services across various access networks.
Ericsson and UNITEL successfully executed a trial data call on a live 5G Standalone network, illustrating the capabilities of 5G technology. This significant achievement marks a critical step in UNITEL’s efforts to provide advanced 5G services, including network slicing and other technological innovations.
Júlio Gonçalves, UNITEL’s Director of Core and Services, noted the importance of the partnership: “Our partnership with Ericsson marks a transformative moment for Angola’s telecommunications sector. It enables us to provide our customers with a world-class network that will drive socio-economic growth and advancement across the country. With Ericsson’s cutting-edge solutions, we are confident in delivering an exceptional customer experience.”
This network upgrade allows for various services, including Voice over LTE (VoLTE), Wi-Fi Calling, 5G Voice, Fixed Wireless Access (FWA), Enhanced Mobile Broadband (eMBB), and the support of high-speed, low-latency applications. These enhancements are expected to significantly improve connectivity and foster economic growth in Angola.
Majda Lahlou Kassi, Vice President and Head of Ericsson West & Southern Africa, emphasized their commitment: “We are dedicated to enabling a fully connected Angola through 5G technology, driving innovation, and accelerating the digital economy. Our advanced solutions will help UNITEL meet the growing demand for smart devices and data usage, bringing innovative technologies that open up new opportunities for businesses and individuals alike.”
With over two decades of collaboration, UNITEL and Ericsson have worked on Core Network, Radio Access Network, and Billing solutions. This modernization initiative focuses on maximizing automation benefits while improving the overall 5G customer experience, ensuring high-quality, reliable, and secure communication solutions.
The partnership between UNITEL and Ericsson signifies a crucial development in Angola’s telecommunications sector, aimed at enhancing connectivity and driving economic growth. By integrating advanced 5G technologies and improving existing services, this modernization initiative is expected to provide exceptional communication solutions and foster innovation for businesses and consumers. The successful trial of the 5G Standard network confirms the capability to meet the rising demand for high-speed digital services.
Original Source: www.itnewsafrica.com
