Nokia Boosts Chennai R&D Facility to Lead Fixed Network Business

Nokia plans to expand its Chennai research and development facility, making it the largest hub for its fixed network business. An MoU was signed between Guidance Tamil Nadu and Nokia in the presence of Chief Minister M K Stalin. The expansion underscores Nokia's commitment to innovative technologies.

Finnish telecom giant Nokia announced on Friday its plans to expand its research and development facility in Chennai, aiming to make it the largest hub for its fixed network business.

The formal agreement to enhance the Nokia R&D lab in Chennai was solidified through a memorandum of understanding exchanged between Guidance Tamil Nadu and Nokia. The MoU was signed in the presence of Chief Minister M K Stalin and the state's industries minister, T R B Rajaa, in San Francisco, USA.

With backing from the Tamil Nadu government, the expanded R&D lab will be one of the largest globally for Nokia, particularly for its fixed networks division. According to Nokia, the investment underscores the company's commitment to pioneering technologies that aim to connect the unconnected and bridge the digital divide.

As a pivotal center for 'fixed networks,' the new funding will enhance Nokia's technology innovations across optical networks, fixed wireless access, Wi-Fi, and home network controllers.

"Our R&D footprint in Chennai is essential to our fixed networks strategy. This investment emphasizes our dedication to both India and global technological progress, leveraging the rich talent pool in the region," stated Vimalkumar Kothandaraman, Nokia's Head of Fixed Networks for Asia Pacific.

(With inputs from agencies.)