BT Picks Alcatel for DSL

PARIS -- Alcatel (Paris: CGEP.PA and NYSE: ALA) today announced a new frameagreement with BT Group for the supply and installation of Alcatel’s DSL platform as part of thecontinuing rollout and development of BT’s broadband access service in the UK.

The UK is currently one of the fastest growing broadband markets in Europe, with BT taking 45,000DSL orders a week and has recently topped 2 million users. This contract is supportive of BT’s 21stCentury Network (21CN) strategy, which is focused on transforming its network to rapidly delivernew services, enhance how its customers communicate, and significantly reduce operating costs.

As with the previous contract, the Alcatel DSL solution will extend BT’s current bandwidth capabilitiesand enable the provision of enhanced services such as video streaming, broadcast video, video ondemand, and on-line gaming. It will also satisfy market demand for carrier-grade business accessand reduce operational expenditures by improving the economies of scale.

Under the terms of this agreement, Alcatel will supply a range of products and services from itsbroadband access portfolio including its 7301 Advanced Services Manager (ASAM), SDSL andSHDSL solutions and full installation, commissioning and OSS integration.

“Broadband adoption rates are now running at record levels and the number of broadbandhouseholds has more than doubled in the last year,” said Dale Register, BT, Mana ging Director ofNetwork Design and Implementation. “As we head toward a Broadband Britain, we must continuallydifferentiate our services to retain and attract new customers. Alcatel’s solution enables BT to furtherexpand its broadband footprint and offer a range of very compelling multimedia and entertainmentservices to our customers”.

Alcatel SA

BT Group plc