Ericsson Wins Thai EDGE Deal

STOCKHOLM -- Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERICY) has been selected by AIS as the sole supplier for their EDGE system in the Bangkok metropolitan area. Ericsson will also expand the present AIS GSM system for a fully integrated GSM/GPRS/EDGE solution. The contract is initially valued at USD 10 million.

The agreement with AIS covers the core and radio access network expansions, including the EDGE live network with a selected group of users. Ericsson will also provide EDGE network integration. Ericsson and AIS will work together to bring new value added services to AIS customers.

"AIS is pleased to appoint Ericsson as the supplier for its EDGE Live Network in the Bangkok metropolitan area as they are able to offer the fastest delivery and the ease of migration in the AIS network," said Mr. Wichian Mektrakarn, Executive Vice President - Network Operations at AIS. "We are confident that with their proven global expertise in mobile networks and technologies and their commitment to EDGE/WCDMA, Ericsson can help us deliver high quality services to our customers."

"We are delighted by the AIS decision to select Ericsson for its EDGE Live Network in the Bangkok Metropolitan Area," said Lars Bjorkenor, President of Ericsson Thailand. "This important agreement reinforces the close strategic relationship which exists between the two companies. Ericsson is fully committed to support the EDGE/WCDMA effort of AIS in Thailand and its position as a market leader as well as a premier operator in the region."

Advanced Info Service plc (AIS)

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