Vodafone India to roll out 4G by 2015 end

New Delhi, Aug 28: Vodafone India will launch its 4G services by end of 2015 in "important data markets" including Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Kochi, a company statement said on Friday.

In addition, Vodafone India will also roll out its own 3G networks in another seven circles -- Assam, the northeast, UP West, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Kerala and Odisha -- to expand its overall 3G footprint across the country.

"Testing of 4G services has commenced successfully. Vodafone India has partnered with leading global technology infrastructure service providers for the network roll-out," the statement said.

"With some of the latest technological developments on the anvil; Vodafone is building a robust and resilient network architecture with a strong backhaul to support the volumes and need for speed from customers," it added.

Vodafone India acquired additional 4G (LTE) spectrum in five circles - Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, Kerala and Karnataka in the February 2014 auction. These circles together contribute close to 50 percent of the total data revenue for Vodafone India.

In 2014-15, Vodafone India rolled out over 23,000 sites taking its overall network footprint to more than 131,000 sites.

The company said that over the last few months, it has taken several steps to modernise its radio network and switching systems.

Charging platforms have been upgraded to facilitate a wider bouquet of products and services.

Major investments have also been made in high-capacity fibre or backhaul to significantly increase the internet connectivity to the rest of the world.

The company said it remains committed towards making significant investments in network expansion and enhancing overall customer experience.

Globally, Vodafone has launched 4G in 18 countries. There are over 20 million 4G customers across the group.

IANS