Vodafone launches 4G services in India's Kolkata

NEW DELHI: India’s second largest wireless operator by subscribers, Vodafone India has rolled out its next generation, high speed 4G network in  prominent business and residential corridors of Kolkata including BBD Bag, Park Street, Alipore, Ballygunge, Salt Lake Sector 5, Airport and EM bypass.

The roll-out will be completed across all parts of Kolkata by June 2016 in a phased manner. The launch in Kolkata follows the successful launch of Vodafone’s 4G services in Kerala and Karnataka.

“Built on the efficient 1800 MHz band, this state-of-the-art network will enable Vodafone 4G customers to access internet via mobile with speeds across a range of smart devices including Mobile Wi-Fi,: the company said in a sttaement.

Telco 4G services can be readily accessed from 4G enabled handsets offered by leading smartphone manufacturers (iPhone, Samsung, Micromax, Microsoft, Lava and Xolo) available across the country.

The company 4G will significantly enhance the mobile internet experience for customers with faster download/upload of videos and music, seamless video chats to enjoy and greater ease in using their favorite apps. Customers will also adore features like high definition video streaming, mobile gaming and two-way video calling.

Vodafone’s 4G service in Kolkata is built on a strong fibre backhaul, and is supported by its superfast 3G services on a new and modern network. With this launch, Vodafone is now uniquely positioned to offer in Kolkata, 2G/3G/4Gservices on its own state of the art, convergent radio technology.

“Leveraging its global network and experience, Vodafone is also the first and only telecom service provider to currently offer international roaming on 4G to its India customers visiting UK, Germany, Romania, Spain and Netherlands,” the company claimed.

“Vodafone’s global expertise and experience of launching 4G across 20 countries gives us a better understanding of this technology and the needs of the 4G customer. Initial response from customers who have experienced our 4G services in Kerala and Karnataka has been positive and encouraging. As a steadfast partner of Digital India, we remain focused on deploying multiple technologies –be it 2G, 3G and now 4G-for optimum use as each technology has its own vital role to play in servicing the myriad connectivity needs of consumers across the country,” said Naveen Chopra, Chief Operating Officer, Vodafone India.

The service provider will increase the intensity of its 4G rollout to cover important metros –Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru by March 2016. Testing of 4G services in these locations has already commenced successfully and Vodafone India has partnered with leading global technology service providers for the network roll-out. Vodafone has already started the roll-out of 4G-Ready SIMs in these markets inviting customers for a free upgrade before the commercial launch.