To provide subscribers with easy access and a seamless connectivity experience, STC has selected Ericsson to expand its Evolved Packet Core (EPC) using Ericsson SSR 8020 as an Evolved Packet Gateway (EPG) in combination with its world leading SGSN-MME.

 

The agreement will supply STC with an EPC solution to deliver the quality of service that STC customers deserve and expect. It will provide ease of use and transparent charging – factors that drive subscriber uptake of smart applications and services.

 

With over 50 million cellular lines and mobile penetration approaching 200 percent, the Saudi Arabian telecom market is now offering 3G and 4G LTE competitive services – and customers are ready to enjoy the full benefits of evolved packet core network connectivity.

 

This new development will enable STC to offer its customers the benefits of state-of-the-art telecommunications network features across the country. These benefits will be more evident as the use of smartphones, tablets and mobile applications continues to rapidly spread.

 

Combined with LTE access networks, EPC will provide a whole new experience for STC customers, with a rich variety of multimedia applications and true broadband access virtually anywhere. Ericsson will, through its consulting and systems integration capabilities, be responsible for the end-to-end systems integration of the expanded EPC.

 

Dr. Khaled Al Biyari, Senior Vice President Technology & Operations, STC, says: "STC, as the largest operator in the Middle East has always strived to provide best in class network quality through consistent optimization and up gradation of our infrastructure. Ericsson has been one of our long-standing partners and their multi-access EPC solution will enable STC to continue delivering next-generation services to customers".

 

Ali Eid, Head of Ericsson in Saudi Arabia, says: "STC, as one of the 4G worldwide technology leaders, is addressing the new demands placed upon operators to offer easy access and attractive user experiences. To do this they need solutions that can address today’s requirements while providing service differentiation and preparing and positioning themselves for a world where virtually everything will be connected. Ericsson’s innovative EPC solutions are designed to provide reliability and scalability, giving STC the flexibility needed to meet the fast-growing demand for mobile broadband services in Saudi Arabia".

 

The new core elements act as a common platform supporting 2G, 3G and 4G/LTE network technologies, providing additional capacity and throughput to cater for surging demand.