MOSCOW, Jan 23 (PRIME) -- Russian mobile operator VimpelCom, working as Beeline, has signed an agreement with Chinese telecom giant Huawei to study and test 5G technologies jointly, the companies said on Monday in a statement.
“Cooperation with Huawei is aimed at setting the right steps to develop Beeline’s network on its way to 5G within the strategy of VimpelCom’s digital transformation. Besides, (VimpelCom) will assist Huawei in creation of solutions meeting market needs,” the statement read.
The partners will test innovative technologies LTE-U (LTE-Unlicensed) and options LTE-Advanced Pro in January–March to improve user’s experience in data transfer.
During 2017, the parties intend to develop and test IoT technologies, machine interaction (M2M), virtual radio, and solutions for public safety.
The commercial launch of the 5G network is scheduled for 2020. The parties do not disclose the amount of investments for the development of technology.
“The research will help Huawei to design new technologies and standards and VimpelCom to create networks of a new generation, raise the level of connection quality and launch new digital services for clients,” the companies said.
VimpelCom and Huawei will also develop and test Internet of Things and machine-to-machine technologies in 2017.
“The expansion of new networks is one of VimpelCom’s priorities. As of the end of the fourth quarter of 2016, we saw doubling of LTE traffic compared to the previous year,” Sergei Knyshev, VimpelCom’s director for network development, said.
“Understanding high demand for new technologies and standards, we are looking for partners to help us turn into a digital company.”