New World Mobility selects Nokia's advanced GSM equipment for network expansion in Hong Kong

New World Mobility and Nokia have signed an agreement for the seventh expansion of the GSM 1800 mobile network in Hong Kong. The contract is valued at almost USD 18 million, and the equipment is expected to be implemented by the end of this month.

Nokia is the sole infrastructure supplier for New World Mobility's network and has been supplying network equipment since 1996. Since then, the two companies have worked closely together in the development of advanced second generation and 3rd generation mobile communications. Previous agreements include the installation) of Nokia's GPRS core network and testing of 3G trial system at Hong Kong. New World Mobility has also recently launched its GPRS network.

Under this current expansion, Nokia will supply its high capacity mobile switching equipment, and unique high capacity base station controllers to New World Mobility which will further enhance the capacity and quality of services for a total of 1.15 million subscribers.

Albert Wong, Chief Executive, New World Telephone Group said, “New World Mobility has been the fastest growing operator in Hong Kong for the past two consecutive years. To cope with our rapidly growing subscriber base and to maintain the excellent coverage quality, we continuously expand our network, leveraging Nokia’s state-of-the-art equipment and services know-how.”

"The agreement with New World Mobility is a further proof of our long-standing relationship. At the end of September this year, New World Mobility had gained a total of 630,000 subscribers and Nokia's high capacity network infrastructure is designed to meet the demands of such fast-growing networks, important if operators are to maintain a competitive edge." Says Mr. Jonathan Yip, General Manager, Nokia Networks, Nokia (HK) Ltd.

New World Mobility’s (NWM) quality mobile services are provided by New World PCS Ltd., which is supported by the financial strength and a depth of resources of its parent companies New World Development and INFA Technologies. Since its inception in August 1997, NWM has grown into one of the leading mobile operators in Hong Kong. NWM leads the PCS market by having more than 630,000 subscribers by end of September 2000, over one-third of the total PCS market. NWM has become the fastest growing mobile operator in Hong Kong in the past two years.

In addition to a wide range of value added services such as the financial information service package named “Financial Centre”, NWM is also proactive in introducing high-speed mobile data communications services to its customers. After the launch of WAP services known as “World Wide Mobility” (“WWM”) last year, NWM has recently launched the General Packet Radio Service (GPRS), as well as the Mobile Commerce (M-Commerce) Services such as the Mobile Stock Trading Service. NWM will also introduce a series of advanced mobile multi-media services to cope with the growing demand as well as to prepare for the approach of 3G mobile communications services.

Nokia is the world leader in mobile communications. Backed by its experience, innovation, user-friendliness and secure solutions, the company has become the leading supplier of mobile phones and a leading supplier of mobile, fixed and IP networks. By adding mobility to the Internet Nokia creates new opportunities for companies and further enriches the daily lives of people. Nokia is one of the most broadly held companies in the world with listings on six major exchanges.

Further information:

Nokia Networks, Communications Department, Tel. +358 9 5113 8193,
Email: nokia.networks@nokia.com
www.nokia.com

New World Telephone Group, Agnes Chan, Manager, Corporate Communications,
Tel. +85 2133 7199, Email: amychan@newworldtel.com

Bonnie Tang, Assistant Manager, Corporate Communications,
Tel. +85 2133 7198, Email: pytang@newworldtel.com