Millicom, a leading provider of fixed and mobile services operating under the TIGO brand in Latin America, announced it will be investing $135 million over the next two to three years to upgrade its mobile network in partnership with Ericsson in three key Latin American markets: Honduras, Paraguay and Bolivia.
COVID-19 has accelerated the digital wave and need for connectivity region-wide, and Millicom needs additional capacity to manage its increased traffic as it continues to expand its network in the region. Partnering with Ericsson will enable Millicom to achieve this by modernizing its networks with LTE, 5G-ready technology for greater speed and enhanced customer experience.
The main new functionality introduced with this modernization is carrier aggregation, which allows the combination of different parts of the spectrum. Millicom will modernize its network using the latest Ericsson Radio System products and solutions, paving the way for 5G deployment across the continent. Ericsson will also replace TIGO’s current 4G packet core and introduce Ericsson’s dual-mode 5G Core as part of the project. This modernization is expected to have a significant impact on TIGO’s network performance.
Across the three countries, Millicom, through its TIGO operations, will expand its network coverage to reach an additional 712 municipalities and 2.5 million people.
Xavier Rocoplan, EVP, Chief Technology and Information Officer at Millicom
We want to offer the best mobile experience in the market and connect more people in both urban and rural areas. With this project, we further our purpose to build the best digital highways where we operate, to connect people, improve lives, and help develop our communities.
Arun Bansal, President of Europe and Latin America, Ericsson
Ericsson is leading in 5G. With our drive for innovation, we are incredibly pleased to unite with Millicom and bring the crucial connectivity to Latin America while paving the way towards 5G.
