India's Idea Cellular has contracted Nokia to deploy its cloud-native core technology in Delhi as part of the operator's journey towards digital transformation.
Idea plans to use Nokia's cloud core to run both data and voice services on a common cloud platform, while taking advantage of enhanced automation capabilities such as lifecycle management.
Under the contract, Nokia will provide its Cloud Packet Core, Cloud Mobile Gateway, Cloud Mobility manager and CloudBand solutions for the Indian operator.
Idea is also introducing Nokia AirFrame servers to help its network meet the demands of high density data center and cloud computing environments.
"As India prepares to define its path to 5G, we at Idea are building the foundation by adding Nokia's cloud core capabilities,” Idea CTO Anil Tandan said.
“This deployment will allow us to deliver a best-in-class network experience to our subscribers and significantly reduce the time required to introduce new services."
Idea expects the deployment to allow it to more rapidly launch next-generation network services, while helping it meet demand for enhanced mobile broadband and improved latency.
Idea Cellular recently secured approval to merge with Vodafone India to create India's largest operator by subscribers with a combined 430 million customers.