Bharti Airtel has recently informed exchanges that the company awarded a contract to Nokia to accelerate the expansion of 5G Fixed Wireless Access (FWA) and Wi-Fi solutions across India, ensuring high-speed internet connectivity nationwide. This collaboration aims to bridge the digital divide by providing superior broadband services, particularly in areas where fiber-optic networks are scarce or difficult to deploy.
Under this agreement, Nokia will supply Airtel with its cutting-edge 5G FWA outdoor gateway receiver and Wi-Fi 6 Access Point, powered by Qualcomm® Modem-RF and Wi-Fi 6 chipsets. These advanced solutions will enhance internet access, offering reliable and high-speed connectivity to millions of users. Given India’s low fiber penetration and the rising demand for digital services, deploying 5G FWA is a game-changer in improving broadband coverage.
Airtel will utilize Nokia’s FastMile 5G outdoor receivers, which are designed to cater to multi-dwelling units and can support two households simultaneously. This cost-effective solution features high-gain antennas for better broadband reach over long distances while optimizing radio resources efficiently. Additionally, the receivers incorporate Power-over-Ethernet (PoE) technology, making them easy to install on walls, balconies, or poles.
To further enhance the home internet experience, Airtel will deploy Nokia’s Wi-Fi 6 access points, which provide intelligent mesh capabilities and self-optimizing network features. This ensures seamless and high-performance connectivity within households, eliminating dead zones and improving internet speed.
An important aspect of this partnership is Nokia’s commitment to manufacturing 5G FWA and Wi-Fi 6 devices in India, promoting local production and sustainability. These devices will be packaged using fully recyclable materials, aligning with eco-friendly initiatives.
