Newbury-based Vodafone to expand European collaboration with Google
Berkshire-based Vodafone has announced plans to expand its European collaboration with Google in mobile messaging services, Pixel devices and Vodafone’s TV platform.
The expanded agreement between the companies will enable Vodafone customers to enjoy rich new messaging experiences through the adoption of Google Jibe Cloud to power Vodafone’s use of Rich Communications Services.
The agreement will also introduce the Pixel 7 handset to Vodafone customers and build out Vodafone functionality for other Pixel categories.
Android TV will also be adopted as the preferred platform for Vodafone’s television offer in nine countries. The expanded agreement will enable Google to leverage further the power of Vodafone’s 5G and ultra-fast fibre-optic networks.
“Google and Vodafone are teaming up to bring users modern messaging with RCS, an engaging interactive TV experience and exciting new Android smartphones,” said Hiroshi Lockheimer, Senior Vice President of Platforms and Ecosystems at Google.
“We appreciate the partnership with Vodafone and we’re excited to delight our millions of mutual customers across Europe.”
Aldo Bisio, Chief Commercial Officer of Vodafone Group, whose headquarters is in Newbury, added: “Expanding our excellent relationship with Google further will enable us to leverage their technological innovation to provide our consumer and business customers with engaging new experiences built on best-in-class services, all of which will be underpinned by our 5G and Gigafast broadband networks.
Vodafone’s expanded relationship with Google will span three strategic areas:
Messaging - Messages by Google, powered by Google's Jibe Cloud, will become the default messaging app on all applicable Android devices sold via Vodafone's carrier sales channels.
Pixel devices - Vodafone plans to expand the availability of Pixel smartphone and wearable devices to additional markets in 2023.
Vodafone TV - Vodafone will use Android TV as its preferred Group-wide set top box platform for Vodafone TV services.
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