Vodafone has announced that it will remove Huawei equipment from the sensitive areas of its 5G network. The decision will affect its operations across Europe after the UK recently made a decision on whether the Chinese firm should have a presence in networks inside the country. Under the new rules in the UK, telecoms can continue using Huawei technology but only in 35% of the network and in non-sensitive parts such as the network’s core.
Commenting on the move, Chief Executive Nick Read said:
“We have now decided as a result of the EU toolbox and the UK government’s decision to take out Huawei from the core. This will take around five years to implement at a cost of approximately 200 million euros.”
Vodafone’s estimate of the bill is lower than that of BT which said removing Huawei from part of its network would cost it £500 million over five years. O2 and Three also operate 5G networks in the UK and will have to look at amending their networks to meet the new guidelines.
According to the UK government, the new proposals to limit Huawei’s involvement in the UK networks will lead to a more diverse range of hardware manufacturers being included. The Department of Culture, Media and Sport said it’s now drawing up plans to help diversify the supply chain and see the adoption of open standards that will allow easier access for new entrants into the sector.
Source: Reuters
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