Nokia launches EDGE solution - accelerating GSM to Mobile Multimedia

(September 27, 1999) Nokia introduces its new Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution (EDGE) technology solution, which will significantly increase GSM network capacity and data rates - even beyond 400 kbit/s.

EDGE is a major improvement in GSM technology, allowing operators to meet the demands of mobile multimedia applications and mass market deployment. Building on the existing GSM network, Nokia EDGE can be introduced incrementally into the network to meet required demand. Additionally EDGE will be the 3rd Generation radio technology for the US TDMA operators thus converging the radio networks of GSM and US TDMA.

"The operator starting today with mobile data services can accumulate the skills and knowledge needed to succeed with true Mobile Multimedia with the Nokia EDGE solution, building a strong market position," says Olli Oittinen, Vice President, Marketing and Sales, Radio Access Systems, Nokia Networks.

Nokia's high-capacity EDGE solution builds on its best-in-class GSM solutions, including the new Nokia UltraSite and Nokia MetroSite Capacity Solution, both of which are easily upgradeable to EDGE. Nokia EDGE also includes full network support for higher data rates, network planning, rollout support and terminals. A key benefit of Nokia EDGE is its innovative transmission solution, resulting in savings due to greater efficiency.

As a bearer technology for both General Packet Radio Service (GPRS) and High Speed Circuit Switched Data (HSCSD), EDGE will enable the high-speed data rates of these technologies to be increased by up to three fold. As EDGE will be standardised throughout the world as part of the International Mobile Telecommunications System (IMT-2000), it will be possible to achieve a global mobile radio system with many services characteristics of 3rd Generation systems.

EDGE is especially well suited to all GSM 900; GSM 1800 and GSM 1900 operators that wish to offer early mobile multimedia applications within existing frequency spectrum. Additionally, EDGE will be compatible for existing GSM operators that obtain a license for UMTS frequencies, wishing to provide various levels of third generation services tailored by market segment or subscriber density.

Nokia is paving the way to the mobile information society with its innovative products and solutions. Nokia is the leading mobile phone supplier and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks including related services. It also supplies multimedia terminals and computer displays. In 1998, net sales totaled EUR 13.3 billion (USD 15.7 billion). Headquartered in Finland, Nokia is listed on the New York (NOK), Helsinki, Stockholm, London, Frankfurt and Paris stock exchanges and employs more than 51 000 people.