Nokia's Ollila says Japan not superior in 3G technology

date: 21 March 2001

Nokia Corp chief executive Jorma Ollila said Japan is not superior in 3G mobile phone technology, Kauppalehti newspaper reported.

According to Ollila, Europe will remain the center of 3G development.

"There is no such a change in sight, which would indicate that Japan will adopt a leading position," Ollila was quoted as saying.

Japanese mobile phone manufacturers have promised to deliver UMTS phones faster than Nokia.

However, Ollila said that UMTS networks that will open in Japan this year are only for testing purposes. There are no real differences in European and Japanese UMTS timetables and the networks will open for commercial purposes at the end of next year or early 2003.

"UMTS will progress according to the timetable and Nokia is in the front of the development," Ollila said.

Ollila said Finland has the best conditions to meet the 3G challenges, because equipment manufacturers have leading positions and operators are known for their innovation.