Ericsson and Millicom team up to bridge the digital divide

According to a IICA, IDB and Microsoft Study 2020, 32 percent of the population of Latin America and the Caribbean – 244 million people – still do not have access to the Internet. In a new partnership with Ericsson, communications service provider Millicom, which operates as TIGO in Latin America, will see its network modernized in three key Latin American markets, extending coverage to 2.5 millions more people and connecting 712 additional municipalities, in a mission to close the digital divide in the region.

This new partnership of the two companies will see an investment US $ 135 million for network upgrades in Bolivia, Paraguay and Honduras, which will also pave the way for the deployment of 5G across the continent.

As part of the three-year project, Ericsson will upgrade TIGO’s current networks with the latest Ericsson radio system products and solutions and replace the existing 4G packet core with Ericsson’s dual mode 5G core, delivering significant improvements in network performance; and the introduction of LTE and 5G compatible technologies for increased speed, stability and user experience.

Xavier Rocoplan, EVP, Chief Technology and Information Officer at Millicom, said: “Millicom has a strategy to achieve and maintain network leadership in all the markets in which it operates. We want to deliver the best mobile experience on the market and connect more people in urban and rural areas. With this project, we are pursuing our goal of building the best digital highways where we operate, connecting people, improving lives and helping grow our communities.

The deal represents a strategic achievement for Ericsson, as the deployment will provide a solid foundation for new opportunities for consumers and 5G businesses in the three key countries.

Arun Bansal, President of Ericsson for Europe and Latin America, said: “Ericsson is at the forefront of 5G. With our drive for innovation, we are extremely happy to unite with Millicom and bring crucial connectivity to Latin America while paving the way for 5G. By working alongside such a major telecommunications provider, we are doubling our commitment to bridging the digital divide globally. While the pandemic has changed more than just the way we communicate, connectivity remains as crucial as ever.

Read the joint press release here.

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