Vi (Vodafone Idea) has officially launched 5G services in the Delhi NCR region in collaboration with Ericsson. This marks a key milestone in the ongoing 5G deployment project, which Ericsson is assisting Vi with across various parts of India. As part of the launch, Vi has deployed Ericsson’s high-performance Massive MIMO radios, specifically using mid-band antenna-integrated radios like AIR 3268 and AIR 3255 to enhance the 5G network's efficiency and performance.

The implementation of these energy-efficient and lightweight Ericsson Radio System products will help optimize spectrum use, reduce the total cost of ownership, and decrease the energy footprint of Vi’s network. This collaboration reflects Vi's commitment to offering top-tier connectivity for its customers. Ericsson’s Massive MIMO technology ensures that the network delivers the best possible performance while supporting Vi's expanding 5G services.

In October 2024, Vi awarded Ericsson a contract to upgrade its 4G infrastructure and deploy 5G in regions where Ericsson already supports the telecom operator. This includes key telecom circles such as Delhi, Kerala, Chhattisgarh, and Rajasthan, which will significantly increase Ericsson’s footprint and market share with Vi.

As part of this partnership, Ericsson has successfully modernized Vi’s network in Delhi by replacing outdated 2G and 4G equipment with more energy-efficient solutions, all without causing any interruptions to service. This seamless upgrade is part of Vi’s ongoing efforts to improve its network quality and user experience.

Jagbir Singh, Chief Technology Officer of Vodafone Idea, commented: "The launch of our 5G services in Delhi marks a pivotal step in Vi’s journey to deliver next-generation connectivity to our customers. Partnering with Ericsson, we are modernizing our network with next-gen technology, equipping our users with the speed, reliability, and capacity needed to thrive in a digitally connected world."

Andres Vicente, Head of Ericsson Southeast Asia, Oceania, and India, added: "This 5G launch in Delhi reinforces Ericsson’s role as a key partner in Vi’s 5G journey and reflects the strength of our ongoing collaboration towards building a robust digital infrastructure across India. Ericsson remains committed to supporting Vi with advanced and sustainable network solutions to meet the evolving connectivity needs of Indian consumers and enterprises."

This collaboration signifies an important step in enhancing digital infrastructure in India, ensuring that users benefit from faster, more reliable 5G connectivity.