Ericsson is engaged in a partnership with Singtel to deploy small cell solutions, including the pico RBS 6402 and the Radio Dot System, across Singapore to boost mobile user experience in in both indoor and outdoor high-traffic locations, such as shopping malls and MRT stations.
As part of this deployment, small cells will be deployed in over 100 locations across the island within this year, providing additional capacity to Singtel’s LTE-Advanced network.
Ericsson’s small cells solutions increase network capacity in crowded environments where it is needed the most – such as (MRT) stations and shopping malls – where mobile users often use data-heavy, video-centric applications on their devices.
With small cell deployment, Singtel customers will enjoy a seamless and enhanced mobile experience, up to 50% faster than current surfing speeds in those high-traffic locations.
According to Ericsson’s Mobility Report, total mobile traffic in Southeast Asia and Oceania is projected to grow at an annualized rate of 50% from 2016 to 2022.This tremendous growth is driven by rising smartphone penetration and increasing use of data-intensive applications such as video streaming. Singapore has almost 100% smartphone penetration rate, one of the highest in the world.
Raymond Soh, Head of Network Solutions, Ericsson Singapore, Brunei & Philippines said: “Singaporeans want to stay connected using their digital devices wherever they go. Operators worldwide are beginning to see the value of small cell solutions to take their network performance to the next level, which in turn drives consumer loyalty. Our strong partnership with Singtel will enable a superior mobile broadband experience in Singapore.”
Ericsson’s small cells deployment forms a complete Heterogeneous solution by coordinating with the existing macro network to enable seamless mobility, load balancing and peak performance through one single network management. Ericsson small cells solution covers both indoor and outdoor capacity needs through cellular, WiFi technologies, and future introduction of unlicensed band technology such as License Assisted Access (LAA). The solution includes Ericsson’s award winning Radio Dot System (RDS), next generation micro radio 2203, 2205 and the RBS 6402. The agreement will also include the progressive expansion of Singtel WiFi hot spots.
Tay Yeow Lian, Managing Director, Networks, Consumer Singapore said: “Network innovation is key to meeting the connectivity needs of our customers today. Our partnership with Ericsson to deploy small cells reaffirms our commitment to ensure Singtel customers continue to enjoy the best indoor and outdoor mobile user experience.”
The partnership with Singtel was announced as part of a special experience event with Chelsea Football Club. Ericsson and Singtel engineers teamed up against Chelsea Football Club players in a game of EA SPORTSTM FIFA 17 played online over the cellular network, to demonstrate how superior mobile broadband performance can enhance user experience.
Earlier this month, Ericsson was unveiled as the connectivity partner for Stamford Bridge – Chelsea Football Club’s home stadium in Fulham, London which involves Ericsson designing, building and operating a carrier-grade Wi-Fi network on the customer’s behalf, based on a Small Cells as a Service model.
As a result of the superior Wi-Fi coverage, Chelsea FC is able to provide fans throughout the stadium with a richer experience that enables them to interact digitally with each other, the club, friends and family.
