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Alcatel today announced that it has been selected by Vodafone Spain, one of the main operators of the Vodafone Group, to implement a Multimedia Gateway Platform over a UMTS solution, that will allow the service provider to offer advanced broadband video services linking mobile and fixed users.

Alcatel's video gateway solution will manage the video services traffic, such as video telephony, between broadband mobile and fixed devices, thus allowing Vodafone's 3G/UMTS mobile users to make a videophone call to anyone connected to the Internet using a webcam-equipped PC. Similarly, it will be possible for 3G phone users to receive video calls from PC users.

Through the use of PCs already equipped with webcams as a base, this new service will contribute to the acceleration of Vodafone Spain's growing 3G subscribers base take off. Mobile video services represent real opportunities for mobile operators to increase their revenues and stand apart from their competitors, whilst satisfying end-users' demands for personalized, interactive services that enable them to share images and emotions.

"Vodafone is the world's leading mobile operator, with a clear edge over the competition where the best and most innovative services are concerned," declared Fernando Molina, Director of Contents Services from Vodafone Spain. "Thanks to Alcatel's expertise in fixed and mobile converged broadband services, our 3G subscribers can now enjoy the excitement of both seeing and talking to the millions of PC users not only in Spain but also elsewhere."

"Alcatel stands at the forefront of innovative video services that really answer users' growing needs of video interactivity, whether they are at home, at the office or on the move," declared Marc Rouanne, Chief operating officer of Alcatel's mobile communications activities. "With our complete portfolio of applications solutions, and our in-house expertise and experience of service integration, we are committed to helping our clients succeed in the video services competition."