Vodafone

Nokia may well be looking to score a $200 million deal with the Indian arm of UK mobile operator Vodafone. The Solutions and Networks (NSN) arm of the Finnish company would be tasked with upgrading Vodafone's 2G and 3G networks in the region. This is another large partnership for Nokia, so soon after news hit the media that Microsoft is seeking to buy the company's devices division.

Should the deal go ahead, NSN will enhance 19 second-generation and 6 third-generation networks. Supplying higher capacity base stations, switches and core network systems for both platforms, NSN will ensure Vodafone is ready to handle an expected surge in data, thanks in part to increased smartphone penetration in India. The Lumia 520 from Nokia is a perfect example of this.

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It's reported that Vodafone India does not currently hold any fourth-generation airwaves, which therefore makes sense for the company to rock on with both already-established generation airwaves to tackle increased usage from customers. Vodafone here in the UK is currently starting to roll out 4G upgrades in London to mark the start of the next generation of mobile connectivity.

AdDuplex India Lumia 520
AdDuplex data from June 2013

Windows Phone will continue to absorb more of the market share pie, especially with the likes of the Lumia 520 and Lumia 625 taking off in multiple markets. India proves to be an important market for Microsoft and co. to take advantage of, and with the improvements to be made by Vodafone and other mobile operators, it's never been a better time for consumers to invest in a smartphone.

Vodafone refuses to go into more detail about what the plans will bring to the company and India in general, but does note they do all they can to continuously upgrade and improve on their infrastructure. Are you looking to upgrade to a Windows Phone?

Source: India Times; thanks, riffraffy, for the tip!