Vodafone India said on Friday that it would launch its 4G services by end of the calendar year 2015. Important data markets including Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Kochi will be part of the first wave of the rollout.
In addition, Vodafone India will also roll out its own 3G networks in 7 circles - Assam, North East, UP West, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Kerala and Odisha, to expand its overall 3G footprint to 16 circles across the country.
Testing of 4G services has commenced successfully. Vodafone India has partnered with leading global technology infrastructure service providers for the network rollout.
With some of the latest technological developments on the anvil, Vodafone is building a robust and resilient network architecture with a strong backhaul to support the volumes and need for speed from customers.
Vodafone India had successfully acquired additional 4G (LTE) spectrum in 5 circles, Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Kerala and Karnataka in February 2014 auctions. These circles together contribute close to 50% of the total data revenues for Vodafone India.
In 2014-15, Vodafone India had rolled out a record number of over 23,000 sites, taking its overall network footprint to more than 131,000 sites. Over the last few months, Vodafone India has taken several steps to modernise its radio network and switching systems.
Charging platforms have also been upgraded to facilitate a wider bouquet of products and services. Major investments have been made in high capacity fibre/backhaul to significantly increase the internet connectivity to the rest of the world.
Globally, Vodafone has launched 4G in 18 countries. There are over 20 million 4G customers across the Group and the company's 4G propositions are enhanced with a mixture of music, sport and TV content to increase adoption and usage.
Vodafone said that is well positioned to launch 4G pan India at an appropriate time.
