Vodafone Ireland has selected Ericsson to be the systems integrator of a real-time charging and IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) solution, including upgrading and expanding the operator's network.
Under the agreement, Ericsson will be responsible for systems integration of existing solutions into the next-generation IMS environment. Ericsson will also upgrade and expand network capacity, enable real-time charging and underpin demanding multimedia functionality.
Ericsson's real-time charging solutions provide operators with a flexible, secure and efficient revenue management system, and enable consumers to better manage their spending. The IMS environment and expansion of IP service capacity will support next-generation broadband multimedia applications that facilitate a richer user experience.
The deal builds upon Ericsson's long-standing relationship with Vodafone Ireland as its sole supplier of an IP-based circuit core network. Based on the Ericsson Mobile Softswitch Solution, the network will now be upgraded to support interworking with IMS.
Mats Svärdh, Chief Technology Officer at Vodafone Ireland, says: "The always-on multimedia demands of our customers challenge us to deliver consistent high quality with real-time charging at home, on the move and when traveling abroad. Ericsson's strength as an end-to-end systems integrator is helping make our multimedia vision a reality."
John Hennessy, Managing Director, Ericsson Ireland, says: "We are delighted to extend our partnership with Vodafone. The integration of this next-generation, end-to-end solution will help the operator realize new revenue opportunities and expand its multimedia offering to its customers."