Network vendor Nokia will supply radio and antenna equipment for the expansion and modernization of TIM’s 5G network in 15 other Brazilian states, mainly in the midwest and north, in addition to Sao Paulo, the companies said in a statement.
Nokia said the deal will take effect in January 2025. The value of the contract was not disclosed.
The company’s selection as a supplier for the second phase of TIM’s 5G rollout is part of a larger contract restructuring previously announced by the company, which saw it remove Ericsson and re-agree with Huawei as a vendor.
“This partnership will increase the number of municipalities that can access 5G, bringing the benefits of secure, superfast connectivity to a wider range of people. This expansion will also enable businesses in these regions to digitize their operations, fostering innovation and stimulating economic growth,” Nokia said in a statement.
Under the agreement, Nokia will supply equipment from its 5G AirScale portfolio, including baseband, massive MIMO radio and remote radio head products.
The company says the device is equipped with energy-efficient ReefShark system-on-chip technology, providing superior coverage and capacity.
TIM will also leverage Nokia’s intelligent MantaRay network management system, which incorporates AI capabilities, to improve network monitoring and management.
Finally, Nokia said it would provide services including digital deployment, optimization and technical support.
As of the end of March, Ericsson and Huawei controlled more than 98% of Brazil’s 5G footprint, according to data presented by Anatel’s Sydney Azeredo Nins at a meeting of an advisory committee to Brazilian regulators in May.
Ericsson led the market with 53.6% of the total, followed by Huawei with 44.6%, with Nokia taking up the rest.
There are currently 23,098 5G antennas installed in the country, with TIM having the largest network with 8,479 sites.
