Using Nokia technology, Telecom Finland has launched a new service based on a GSM 900 and GSM 1800 dual band network, the GSM Duo service. This service, which is the first new service based on dual band networks, will work in all Telecom Finland's GSM 900 and GSM 1800 reception areas in Finland and will also allow roaming to both GSM 900 and GSM 1800 networks abroad. As most mobile phones will operate on two or more frequencies in the future, there are very good growth opportunities for this service. Telecom Finland's Duo is the first new service based on dual band. This is a clear indication of the shift by mobile operators to differentiate themselves, by offering value-added features, such as those included in the Duo Service.
Customers can select one near zone as their own.
The number of near zones will increase at a later date as the GSM 1800 network expands. The lower near-zone pricing means that the service will be suitable for those who make most of their calls within the near zone. Outside one's own near zone, however, the cost of calls will be slightly higher than current prices. Nokia has delivered dual band network base stations to a number of the world's leading operators. Nokia was the first manufacturer to gain type approval for a dual band base station and is still the only supplier with this product available.