Nokia wins USD 100 million GSM/EDGE network and services contract with AIS in Thailand

Network modernization will enable AIS to provide new services and enhance its business

Espoo, Finland - Nokia and Thai operator, Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited (AIS), have signed a contract for the expansion of the operator's GSM/EDGE network, resulting in nationwide coverage for both GSM and EDGE. Nokia will modernize AIS' network infrastructure and support the operator in providing innovative and user-friendly services by providing faster rollout and more flexibility. Nokia's services, such as managed services and systems integration, will enable AIS to concentrate on developing its business. The value of the deal is approximately USD 100 million.

Under the agreement, Nokia will supply a wide range of its innovative GSM/EDGE radio and core network solutions, including base stations, Nokia MSC Server System mobile softswitch and the Nokia Intelligent Network. The network will be supported by the multivendor, multitechnology Nokia NetAct(TM) network and service management solution, including Nokia NetAct(TM) Traffica and Nokia Profile Manager to provide real-time monitoring and provisioning services for AIS' subscribers. Nokia will also provide telecoms implementation, consulting and systems integration, and care services, along with managed services covering the first-line maintenance service for more than 400 of AIS' sites across Thailand.

"As a leading mobile operator in Thailand, AIS has always been keen to take new steps to benefit our customers and meet their needs. We have been working with Nokia in several areas to ensure the top-quality network, and they have done a great job," says Wichian Mektrakarn, President of AIS. "We have a strong confidence in Nokia's expertise and skills in planning and running GSM/EDGE networks and providing related services, thus allowing us to concentrate on other issues and enabling us to develop our current service offering and prepare us for the implementation of more advanced mobile services in the near future."

"We are delighted to expand our cooperation with AIS and feel honored to get this opportunity to support them in new and exciting areas, including the intelligent network and first-line maintenance services. Nokia's services will help AIS reduce the complexity of their operations, freeing up their resources to focus on core business activities," says Somchai Thamsirisup, Account Director, Networks, Nokia. "We have worked closely with AIS for a long time, which has helped us get a deep understanding of their business. As a result, we are confident that we are able to provide the solutions and services that meet AIS' needs and go even beyond, helping AIS to develop their offering even further."

Nokia Services boasts a broad business solution portfolio that gives operators the best tools to increase their efficiency and differentiate their offerings, with close to 20 years of experience in the field. Managed Services, including Mobility Hosting, and Consulting & Integration (C&I) are the main pillars of Nokia's Services business unit. Nokia is a major player in the managed services and mobility hosting business with close to 60 contracts globally.

In addition to managed services, Nokia continues to expect growth in consulting and systems integration that help operators to differentiate and innovate their mobile offering by providing professional services in the areas of network design, service management and performance, and service delivery solutions. Nokia C&I has completed more than 350 systems integration projects globally.

About AIS Thailand
Advanced Info Service Public Company Limited (AIS), a subsidiary of Shin Corporation PCL., is the established leader in Thailand's wireless communications industry after more than 15 years of services with its market share more than 50%. To date, AIS service network covers 795 districts (amphur) throughout Thailand, plus international roaming across in six continents. AIS has continuously enhanced and expanded its network in order to respond to the market and technological advances, whilst keeping abreast of consumers' growing demands and needs. It continues to integrate the latest in advanced technology and deliver more than just voice communication, with GPRS and EDGE technology. AIS strongly believe that wireless communications bring changes to the way Thai people live their life, regardless of who they are and what they do. With endless communications possibilities, the quality of life is better. Visit our web site at www.ais.co.th.