Work is now also underway to modernise 2degrees RAN network with products and solutions from the Ericsson Radio System portfolio. Auckland and Wellington will be the first locations to benefit. The commercial 5G services are expected to launch later in 2021. The nationwide modernisation includes the replacement of existing 4G and 3G technology across 2degrees’ network. The CSP says that the network modernisation will enable it to double the capacity it currently offers to its 4G customers. Mark Aue, chief executive, 2degrees, highlighted Ericsson’s global 5G leadership and track record as a reason for choosing the company as its sole 5G RAN partner. “Ericsson is rapidly expanding its New Zealand presence and I look forward to bringing our customers the technology that is underpinning the world’s best 5G networks across five continents, including two networks in Australia,” he says.