Nokia to deliver the first GPRS core network and Mobile Internet platform in Latin America to Nuevatel in Bolivia

Nokia and Nuevatel, the leading GSM operator in Bolivia have signed an agreement for the deployment of the Nokia GPRS core network and mPlatform Solution. A unique range of commercial services are expected to be launched during the first half of this year. The deal also includes Professional Services covering Project Management and Implementation.

The scope of the Nokia deliveries includes support services, applications consultancy, and systems integration expertise to integrate the GPRS core network into the existing service delivery and billing environment. The agreement will allow Nuevatel to launch Nokia FriendsTalk, a mobile chat application that enables mobile operators and service providers to offer new enhanced, easy-to-use group communication services for their subscribers. Nokia FriendsTalk brings mobile Internet chat services into today's networks.

Nuevatel's initial Internet-based services will be based on WAP and GPRS. Both the Nokia GPRS Core Network and the Nokia mPlatform Solution are scaleable and can used for future 3G technologies. The Nokia mPlatform Solution includes an open application interface, the advanced API, which enables application developers to easily create and integrate applications on
the Nokia mPlatform Solution, tailored according to Nuevatel's subscriber needs. Nokia will also provide Nuevatel with the Nokia Mobile Mail Solution for e-mail service.

“Being the first operator in Latin America to launch Mobile Internet Applications over GPRS will ultimately lead to benefits for our subscribers. Nokia mPlatform Solution will enable us to introduce during this first half of 2001 new exciting services, like picture messaging, downloadable ringing tones, new e-mail services, chat applications and mobile portal," said Pete Simpson, President Nuevatel.

“We are very pleased to expand our relationship with Nuevatel. Combining GPRS with new, exciting applications, gives an optimum platform for Nuevatel to take advantage of a short time-to-market for the introduction of new revenue generating services, while bringing new mobile Internet experience to subscribers in Bolivia,” said Ludovic Gaudé, Sales Director, IP Mobility Networks, Nokia Networks Latin America.

Nokia mPlatform Solution is a network and terminal independent solution working across various access methods from WAP and GRPS to 3G and fixed Internet technologies. It combines the key elements for offering new value-added messaging and information services for end-users. It includes core products, such as WAP gateways and profile directories; enhanced access solutions, such as proxy servers and authentication; intelligent middleware and customer specific solutions.

The Nokia GPRS solution includes the industry's strongest and most efficient core GPRS system, including applications consultancy and systems integration expertise to integrate the GPRS core network into the existing service delivery and billing environment. Nokia has delivered and implemented well over 50 GPRS core networks to leading operators in Europe, USA, Asia and China, and now has the largest installed base of any supplier. Around 20 Nokia supplied GPRS networks have been launched, more than half of the commercial GPRS launches today.

Nuevatel started operations in the Bolivian market as the third mobile telecommunications operator in December of 2000. The company is owned by Western Wireless International and COMTECO, a local operator, with 67% and 33% share participation respectively. With this launch, Western Wireless International, has created a strategic point of expansion in Latin America mainly because of the geographical location of Bolivia, and also because the Bolivian market presents a very interesting potential due to its low mobile telephony penetration level, currently under 6%. NuevaTel runs under the GSM platform, offering Personal Communications Services to the three main Bolivian cities. The company will expand operations to other important cities in the country beginning in 2001.

Western Wireless’ local partner COMTECO is a cooperative-type company based in Cochabamba, the third most important city in Bolivia. It provides fixed line telephony to Cochabamba (about 120,000 subscribers), and other services like cable TV and Internet access.

Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is a broadly held company with listings on six major exchanges.

Further information:
Nokia Networks
Communications Department
Tel + 358 (0) 7180 38193
Email nokia.networks@nokia.com

www.nokia.com