SFR deploys LTE in Paris

French operator SFR, a subsidiary of media group Vivendi, said it has become the first operator to introduce commercial LTE services in Paris.

The operator has deployed its LTE network across other cities in France, and has called on infrastructure vendor Nokia Solutions and Networks (NSN) and has used its Liquid Radio technology to build the Parisian network. NSN provided its Single RAN based on Flexi Multiradio 10 Base Station platform.

In line with SFR’s requirements, NSN’s Flexi Multiradio Base Station platform’s optimum size and low carbon footprint enable flexible installation and scalability-factors that are crucial to ensure successful deployment in Paris, according to NSN.

The vendor also supplied its NetAct network management system to ensure consolidated configuration, monitoring, management and optimization for SFR’s network.

“This project is an important landmark in our long-term partnership with SFR,” said Benoit Duchene, head of the SFR customer business team at NSN. “SFR’s customers in Paris can now enjoy a mobile broadband experience that’s unmatched-in terms of latency, speed and the range of services available. We are committed to helping SFR in its endeavour to evolve towards networks capable of monetizing future opportunities.”

Earlier this month, Vivendi revealed plans to demerge SFR. The group said SFR would gain greater freedom on strategy and developing partnerships as a result of the demerger.

It is now launching a formal study as its plans to split into two separate companies. A final decision is expected to be reached in early 2014.

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