Telenor and Vodafone have added a fifth separate service to run across a single IPX interconnect.
SMS joins 2G and 3G signaling, direct voice, data roaming and 4G signaling in being interconnected through joint IPX capabilities.
The two operators first began work on an IPX interconnect in 2014. The technology is designed to support operators’ shift to IP, allowing them to bring new services to market much faster and with guaranteed quality.
IPX also allows multiple services to be run over existing and privately managed IP/MPLS networks through a single connection.
Ronny Johnsen, CMO of Global Wholesale, the international wholesale unit of Telenor, said: “Both Telenor and Vodafone are leading players in rolling out 4G in their local markets. This direct IPX interconnect between our mobile groups secures a high service quality with a roam like home customer experience for all Telenor and Vodafone subscribers. We are constantly challenged by changes in our industry and such partnerships enable mobile groups to adopt new technologies and services.”
Fred Schepens, SVP Voice at Vodafone Carrier Services, added: “Vodafone Carrier Services through this strategic partnership with Telenor is proving our commitment to delivering for our customers, who are increasingly demanding greater speed, quality, security and reach.
“Telenor was one of the first carriers to understand and embrace the opportunities that multiple services delivered via a single connection gives. The expectation of our partners is to receive easy to use, integrated, reliable, secure, and high quality services, which make a positive impact to their businesses.”
The two operators boast almost 700 million subscribers between them.
Operators are hamstrung by indecision over which exact model of roaming to implement.