Orange has selected the Metaswitch Rhino platform as the framework for its Open Service Gateway (OSG), a unified services layer that provides consistency of services and user experience regardless of network type e.g. IN, IMS.
In this role, OSG enables the deployment and interworking of fixed and mobile voice, messaging, video and data services. It is initially being deployed in Orange Egypt.
OSG demands an open service layer to ensure that Orange is in control of service innovation, avoiding vendor lock-in by enabling internal and external development resources to build repeatable “drop-in” applications that can be deployed by any operator across the group. It also enables deployment of a services layer that embraces virtualization and NFV, ensuring that the technology is aligned with the Orange 2020 vision.
Any region identified for initial deployment of the OSG will feature an innovative use case. Orange Egypt had a predominantly pre-paid subscriber base that needed the ability to easily recharge their accounts.
With existing recharge capabilities residing on disparate platforms and multiple access points, Orange decided to invest in Metaswitch Rhino’s to deliver their new Low-Balance Eco System (LBE). When a subscriber makes a call and they are out of credit, the LBE service provides a consistent, single point of entry and options for subscribers through an interactive voice menu. Calls that had once been dropped during the recharge cycle are now maintained, ensuring user satisfaction and protecting the revenue stream.
The Rhino platform acts as an extensible, open telephony application server that allows Metaswitch, network operators and third party software developers to create new applications via a broad range of APIs and SDKs. This enables them to have greater control of the direction, speed and cost of their network and service evolution.
Maged Gabriel, Orange Egypt Sr Director, IT & Service Platforms
Our partnership with Metaswitch for the future evolution of Orange Egypt allows us to deploy virtualized, openly extensible service platforms that support both service interworking and service creation.
Martin Lund, CEO of Metaswitch
Orange’s commitment to virtualized, open platforms is driving clear and measurable value for its customers, partners and investors. They’re lowering costs, reducing time-to-revenue and improving the customer experience.
