Bharti Airtel has entered into a contract with Nokia to expand 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and Wi-Fi solutions for regions with low or nil fiber connectivity. The deployment of fixed wireless broadband access via 5G networks stands out as a significant application of 5G technology, especially in India, which faces low fiber penetration and a high demand for digital services.
Airtel will leverage Nokia’s FastMile 5G outdoor receivers that can serve two households concurrently and thus reduce connection expenses. Further, Airtel will implement Nokia’s Wi-Fi 6 access point for better in-home experience. Both these products, using Qualcomm Modem-RF and Wi-Fi 6 chipsets, will be produced in India and packaged in fully recyclable materials. Recently, Nokia also got an extension on the deal for deploying 4G and 5G equipment across key cities and States.
Speaking about the FWA contract, Randeep Sekhon, Chief Technology Officier (CTO) at Airtel, said, “Nokia’s 5G Fixed Wireless Access and Wi-Fi 6 Access Point solutions will help provide high-speed internet to underserved areas and fulfil the need of a superior broadband experience.”
Sandy Motley, President of Fixed Networks at Nokia, said, “India’s vast size and population density presents unique challenges for broadband connectivity. In those communities where fiber is difficult to deploy, FWA can be used to provide wireless broadband connectivity.”