Nokia has announced the expansion of its Fixed Networks R&D facility in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Accordingly, the new R&D lab will be one of the largest globally for Nokia and the largest for its Fixed Networks business.

This expansion, with the support of the the Tamil Nadu government, underpins Nokia’s commitment to developing cutting-edge technologies. Thus, helping connect the unconnected and reduce the digital divide.

As a key hub for Fixed Networks, this investment will further strengthen Nokia’s technology innovations. Particularly, in 10G, 25G, 50G and 100G PON, Fixed Wireless Access, Wi-Fi and MDU solutions. In addition, the access network and home controllers.

Largest R&D Lab

The Government of Tamil Nadu has been key to facilitating this expansion and will provide Nokia with essential infrastructure. Moreover, this collaboration reinforces Chennai’s strategic importance in Nokia’s global operations and underscores the region’s increasing prominence as a center for technological innovation.

To formalize the expansion of the Nokia R&D lab in Chennai, the Tamil Nadu government and Nokia signed an understanding. Witnessing the signing were Thiru. M. K. Stalin, Hon’ble Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, and Dr. T. R. B Rajaa, Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Government of Tamil Nadu in San Francisco, California, USA

Dr. TRB Rajaa, Hon’ble Minister for Industries, Government of Tamil Nadu, said, “Today, Tamil Nadu has evolved into a global destination of choice for R&D and technology services. Nokia has been a long-standing partner in Tamil Nadu’s growth story. Thus, it is a matter of pride for us that the new facility, the largest fixed network lab within Nokia and probably the whole world, will be in Chennai.”

Meanwhile, Vimalkumar Kothandaraman, Head of Fixed Networks for Asia Pacific at Nokia, said, “Our R&D footprint in Chennai is critical to our Fixed Networks strategy. This investment highlights our dedication to India and global technology advancements. Moreover, it allows us to further leverage the abundant talent pool in the region. This MoU solidifies our collaboration with the Tamil Nadu government to jointly drive telecom industry innovations, expanding our world-class R&D hub in Chennai.”

05 September 2024