Telefónica O2 UK has signed Ericsson to perform a network modernization programme for greater voice and data coverage for its O2 customers in the north of UK.

Nigel Purdy, CTO for Telefónica O2 UK, said: “The modernised core network will be capable of greater capacity at reduced operational cost, allowing for site consolidation through a smaller footprint.“Our nationwide investment programme is centred on providing a better experience for our customers today and will set us on the road to building a ‘smarter’ future for tomorrow. We pride ourselves on being the UK’s home of the smartphone, pioneering the explosion in mobile data, and we focus on provisioning our network accordingly.”

Anders Runevad, Ericsson President of Region West & Central Europe, said: “With the ever increasing demands on networks from mobile broadband applications and the UK’s love of smartphones, O2’s network modernisation really addresses the needs of their customers both immediately and into the future, with the ability to deliver continuing improvements to support the customer experience.”

The modernised network will initially be used to provide 3G capability and support HSPA download speeds up to 42Mbps and is prepared for LTE introduction and other future developments.