Ericsson has extended its 10-year partnership with Eastlink, which the company says will help strengthen 5G mobile network service across the hundreds of communities that Eastlink serves.
Following the launch of Eastlink’s 5G network with its high-performing, energy-efficient Radio Access Network (RAN) last year, Ericsson will begin to supply 3500MHz mid-band radios and enhanced core network support for voice and data.
“Eastlink has a strong commitment to ensuring our customers have access to the latest technology and services wherever they are, for their work and life online,” says Jeff Gillham, CEO, Eastlink. “Continuing our partnership with Ericsson, a global leader in the industry, will help us provide customers with the full scope of next generation 5G experiences.”
Eastlink launched its 5G network powered by Ericsson technology in March 2022, with the activation of its first sites in Halifax, Nova Scotia. The two companies have since been working together to build robust 5G infrastructure to help transform industries and enhance day-to-day experiences for its customers. As part of this newly expanded partnership, the companies will activate Eastlink’s 3500MHz spectrum, which will further enhance coverage, lower latency, and deliver even faster speeds.
”5G has the power to transform our lives and businesses, and our longstanding partnership has helped ensure Eastlink’s customers have access to world-class 5G technology,” says Jeanette Irekvist, President, Ericsson Canada. “We are proud to continue our journey together as we deliver innovations and enhanced experiences for years to come through robust, reliable and sustainable next-generation networks.”
The first company in Canada to fully sunset older 3G technology to make way for the most advanced network capabilities of 5G, Eastlink has invested nearly $500 million since its launch in 2013 to grow its mobile service across its Canadian footprint.