- Dutch operator KPN launches the first cloud-based push-to-talk service in Europe
- The cloud-based push-to-talk service was developed by Kodiak Networks and has been provided by Ericsson in the US since 2012
- The service supports the widest range of devices and networks, including 3G, 4G/LTE and Wi-Fi
Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERIC, news, filings) has enabled KPN, the largest telecom and IT service provider in the Netherlands, to launch the first cloud-based push-to-talk (PTT) service in Europe. Cloud-based PTT allows users to instantly communicate with large audiences at the push of a button – supporting the widest range of devices and networks, including 4G/LTE and Wi-Fi.
The service, which is provided by Ericsson and powered by Kodiak Networks’ next-generation PTT technology, was made available in Europe this year after being rolled out in the US in 2012. As a result, KPN is now able to offer its customers cost-efficient, enhanced instant group communication services over its existing 3G, 4G/LTE and Wi-Fi networks.
John van Vianen, Senior Executive Vice President Business Market at KPN, says: “We see a lot of potential for this service, particularly since it is cloud-based and managed by Ericsson. KPN Push-To-Talk contributes to increased efficiency and reduced risks in the workplace, particularly for employees who work alone in the field. Within a second, you can start a voice connection with a person or a whole group of people, anywhere in the Netherlands. And because you can view GPS and real-time presence and availability information for your contacts, you can also be sure that the people you are talking to are out of harm’s way in the case of an emergency.”
Jean-Claude Geha, Vice President and Head of Managed Services at Ericsson, says: “We have been working with KPN for nearly 100 years – constantly innovating and finding better ways of doing things – and so it’s very fitting that they have become our first cloud-based push-to-talk customer in Europe. By offering PTT as a cloud-based IT managed service, we are able to continually manage and update it on KPN’s behalf, without the need for costly network infrastructure modifications.”
KPN’s PTT service is available in two packages: a standard PTT service with up to 15 contacts per PTT user in a single group; or PTT Pro with up to 1,300 contacts per PTT user in up to 130 groups.
Through IT Managed Services, Ericsson can assume full responsibility for its customers’ IT – including everything from complete application life-cycle management, to application development, quality assurance and day-to-day operations and maintenance for both applications and infrastructure. Ericsson combines a telecom mindset and cross-domain IT expertise – from telecom business processes and vertical applications, through OSS/BSS to networks – with in-depth understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by its customers.
NOTES TO EDITORS
Ericsson and Kodiak introduce 4G-compatible cloud-based push-to-talk (PTT) service in Europe
Managed Services press backgrounder
Download high-resolution photos and broadcast-quality video at www.ericsson.com/press
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