Nokia to support GSM technology on 450 MHz frequency band for mobile phones

Nokia today underlined its interest in GSM technology on the 450 MHz frequency band. Nokia believes that a GSM450 frequency is a viable solution in providing affordable handsets and mobile voice-centered services to new growth areas with a low teledensity. For regions licensing a 450 MHz frequency band, GSM technology can provide a cost conscious alternative and thus enable mobile communications for a broad consumer base in very price sensitive markets.

"Nokia believes that reducing the total cost of ownership for both affordable handsets and mobile voice services are the key when it comes to reaching the next billion consumers in new growth markets," says Søren Petersen, Senior Vice President, Nokia Mobile Phones. "The GSM450 frequency can provide a way of giving consumers and operators a choice in taking full advantage of the affordability of GSM technology."

Nokia previously stated it expects the mobile subscriber base to reach three billion by 2010. This growth will be significantly fueled by markets which currently have a low mobile penetration rate. With the right combination of mobile phones, network solutions, services and a regulated environment, Nokia envisions a mobile landscape where operators can profitably offer mobile services to a broader range of consumers for as little as USD 5 per month.

Nokia GSM handsets, such as the recently introduced Nokia 2652 and the Nokia 1600 (for GSM 900/1800/1900), are very popular in entry markets. Potentially Nokia products could bring the benefits of GSM technology to markets that are planning to license the 450MHz frequency band.

Source: Nokia