Vodafone has signed a 15-year agreement with outdoor advertising company JCDecaux to deploy ‘small cells’ on street furniture and billboards, which will improve network performance. It’s a global deal that follows a successful pilot programme where Vodafone Netherlands installed over 160 small cells on bus shelters in Amsterdam.
The new technology will enable Vodafone to increase mobile data speeds and improve coverage while spending less time and money than conventional network upgrades would require.
JCDecaux will be responsible for designing and manufacturing the housing for the equipment, while Vodafone will deploy and manage the technology. It’ll primarily be used in densely populated areas.
Jean-Charles Decaux, Co-CEO of JCDecaux and Chairman of the company’s Executive Board, said “After successful testing in Amsterdam, we are pleased to continue our collaboration with Vodafone by supporting its strategy to develop the quality of its networks. Connected street furniture is set to transform city life and JCDecaux is enthusiastic about contributing to these structural changes, providing lasting benefits to municipalities and citizens.”
Street furniture currently maintained by JCDecaux includes bus shelters, information panels, street signage and litter bins.