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The BSNL has invited global CDMA handset makers for tie ups to launch mobile services on this technology platform. The government owned telecom body is currently investing about Rs 2000 crore on a CDMA network roll out, will soon offer bundled handsets to its customers.
The decision could bring big opportunity to CDMA giants such as China’s ZTE and Huawei, Samsung, LG and Nokia and others. Presently, BSNL offers mobile services on the GSM platform across the country. It has been noted that the company doesn’t offer bundled handsets with GSM connections.
BSNL said that it will have tie ups at both the national and state level on a non exclusive basis for CDMA devices. The telecom company asked manufacturers to submit their replies by August 19, along with technical descriptions and the price of the models.
BSNL spokesperson said to media that the company would monitor the performance of the handset manufacturers and the contract may be terminated if the latter does not meet the requisite standards. Also the offered handsets should be fastening for use in BSNL network only. Other conditions would be, a 2 years replacement guarantee for all handsets and BSNL reserves the right to functionally test the offered devices.
Incidentally, BSNL has planned to offer full fledged CDMA services when existing players in CDMA segment such as Reliance Communications and the Tatas are moving to the GSM turf. Initially, BSNL will limit it CDMA offerings to the top 500 towns and cities across India. Also, BSNL is in the process of setting up 10,000 towers for its CDMA networks.
