Euro 3G roll-out hots up

NEWS 3G companies are stepping up the development of infrastructure solutions in Europe. Nortel and 3G infrastructure provider Airvana have launched a joint development and supply agreement to support Nortel's catchily named CDMA200 1xEV-DO programme, a flavour of 3G technology. The pair have been working on all-IP high-speed data solutions based on Nortel's CDMA Metro Cell and will produce products based on Airvana's 3G Radio Access Network (IP-RAN). Nortel claims CDMA200 1xEV-DO is cheaper per byte than any other 3G technology available today and said the solution will enable operators to deliver wireless web browsing audio and video streaming and gaming to users. Another deal is between NCC Telecom and 3G Infrastructure Services AB (3GIS) for the construction of 300 3G base stations in Sweden. The contract for an undisclosed sum is open to build additional stations up to the end of 2003.