Ericsson offers Location Based Services to Aircel

Aircel strikes a deal with Ericsson for a period of three years. Ericsson will provide mobile positioning systems (MPS) for Location Based Services (LBS). Aircel subscribers can get real time tracking, navigation information and information services while on the move. MPS will support several positioning alternatives for GSM and WCDMA. That ranges from network-based methods with cell accuracy aimed for all terminals, to more accurate terminal-based methods using GPS positioning. The WCDMA positioning method - Cell ID with round-trip time measurement - will improve the positioning accuracy for 3G and 2G phones. Aircel users can avail this service to find nearby restaurants or gyms, find the fastest route home, or keep tabs on children or the elderly with a tracking service from July onwards.

Mallikarjun Rao, chief technology officer of Aircel said, "There is huge potential in offering this value- added service to our consumers. Most Indians spend on average 90 minutes per day on the roads; location-based services will definitely increase efficiency and enhance the quality of their life. Our belief in Ericsson technological superiority and their unparalleled support gives us the confidence to provide superior services to our customers."

Amarjeet Singh, vice president and customer unit head for Aircel, Ericsson India, says: "Aircel is a preferred partner for us and it is our pleasure to extend this ongoing relationship. The advanced location based intelligent service will not only provide information pertaining to a particular area but also be an invaluable analytical tool for addressing issues such as public safety and security, health care, emergency services, and so on."