Indian operator Vodafone Idea (Vi) is clearly getting 2025 off to a busy start in terms of network upgrades and rollouts. This week has seen the news that it has partnered with HCLSoftware, the software business unit of Indian global technology company HCLTech, to make its 4G and 5G networks smarter and more efficient.
Vi is now using HCL Augmented Network Automation (HCL ANA), a multi-vendor self-optimising network (MV-SON) platform, to manage its Ericsson and Samsung networks. HCLSoftware says that this advanced technology will help Vi improve network performance, save energy, and offer better services to its customers.
The HCL ANA platform uses artificial intelligence (AI) to simplify the management of Vi’s complex multi-vendor, multi-technology and multi-layered network to ensure smooth integration and efficient network operations. The platform is also Open RAN Alliance (O-RAN) service management and orchestration (SMO)-ready, making the investment future-proof, according to HCLSoftware.
The company adds that this collaboration brings several benefits to Vi and its users. The HCL ANA platform has an open architecture and empowers Vi to manage and automate its network independently, reducing dependency on OEM-specific features and applications.
It also helps save energy, reducing costs and making the network more sustainable. Most importantly, says HCL, Vi customers will experience a faster and more reliable network.
Jagbir Singh, CTO of Vodafone Idea, says: "The AI-powered HCL ANA platform will streamline our network operations and provide superior network experience to our customers. It also reflects Vi’s commitment to using advanced, Made-in-India technologies to improve services, reduce costs, and prepare for the future of telecom innovation."
