JT and Ericsson partner to build next generation mobile network

Ericsson, a world leader in future-proof, scalable network architecture, has been chosen by JT to install the next generation networks that will provide mobile and fixed line services. The investment, which is being made by JT, keeps pace with the rapidly changing world of communications technology, giving customers across the Channel Islands access to the services and products of the future.

This is an exciting prospect for our islands, and much like when the project to install fibre began, it is almost impossible to comprehend the breadth of capabilities it will bring to the Channel Islands, long into the future.

Daragh McDermott, CEO of JT Group, said: “We are delighted to be working with such a well-known and respected company. Communications technology never stands still, it’s a rapidly changing environment but as with the roll out of fibre, we need to stay ahead of the game and this programme will provide the transformation and leap in technology now required to meet the future demands of businesses and consumers.”

JT and Ericsson signed the contract, which includes mobile network modernisation and upgrades to JT’s CORE, Radio Access Network (RAN) and Managed Services networks, at an official ceremony at Digital Jersey yesterday evening. The project will begin this year and includes Ericsson’s future-proof and scalable Mobile Transport solutions, data-driven Network Management Services and the latest energy efficient products and technologies as part of a sustainable network evolution. As well as offering improved speeds and security, the network modernisation will bring improvements to voice quality on mobile calls, more bandwidth for mobile users and improved coverage. The program will enable future 5G and technology ambitions in the Channel Islands to be met.

Katherine Ainley, Chief Executive of Ericsson UK and Ireland added: “Ericsson and JT share the same passion and vision for next-generation connectivity to create new possibilities for people, businesses and society. We are excited to be building the network of the future for the Channel Islands; this will deliver leading connectivity and create a platform of innovation that will power new consumer and enterprise services, advance the digitalization of industries and boost future economic growth.”

Kirsten Morel, Deputy Chief Minister of Jersey and Minister for Economic Development, added: “Digital infrastructure plays an incredibly important role in our society, with communication technologies helping to address social, environmental, and economic challenges all across the world. Not only do we want islanders to have the most reliable and fastest internet possible, but we also want them to be able to access the services that new technology can provide. This investment in the next generation network by JT will do just that.”



JT talks about e-safety at Digital ACE event

JT’s e-safety experts will be on hand this weekend at the Digital Greenhouse’s Digital ACE event on Saturday 24th June taking place at the Beau Sejour Leisure Centre from 12 noon until 5pm.

Digital ACE takes place annually ahead of National Safer Internet Day and provides online safety guidance to children and parents, featuring a host of local tech and digital organisations with interactive displays sharing information on e-safety.

The JT team will be available to answer questions and provide Wi-Fi installation guides and e-safety information that can be taken home.

This year, JT will showcase the parental control features of JT Total Wi-Fi, including scheduled freeze or timeouts, website blocking and device access features, which promote the safety of young internet users.

Visitors to the JT stand will also be able to try out the features on TV and Games consoles, learn more about how JT technology promotes e-safety and grab some sustainable giveaways.

JT will also offer visitors to their stand the chance to win a Nintendo Switch Lite, a compact handheld device that is ideal for playing outside or online with friends or family but doesn’t have internet browser access.

Steve Rowsell, Retail Manager at JT, said: ‘The internet is embedded into our day-to-day lives, and children are accessing the internet at a very young age, using it to help with homework, communicate with teachers and play interactive games. We want to educate young people and parents about digital safety while offering people the best ways to connect with each other and the world around them.

‘It can be hard to keep up in this ever-changing digital world, but the things that help keep children safe online are often similar to the things that keep them safe offline, and the Digital ACE event is fantastic to help young people explore and enjoy the digital world safely.’

For anyone unable to attend the event, JT’s High Street shop team are always happy to discuss online safety and offer friendly advice.



JT Community Giving – Supporting our community

In November 2022 we launched our new funding and support scheme, ‘JT Community Giving’, and since then over 70 charities and not-for-profit organisations have received some much-needed extra assistance. We’ve been a big part of this community for over 135 years and in that time we’ve helped some wonderful charities and supported some unforgettable events. Being part of a community is what makes us and is what makes Jersey a very special place to live, work and play.

Read all about what we’ve been up to >



In conversation with Tom Noel

In June’s Connect magazine, ‘In Conversation With Tom Noel’ explores how 135-year-old business JT is pivoting from being a ‘TelCo’ to a ‘TechCo’, with Chief Product Officer Tom Noel overseeing an ambitious project to slash its current 4,500 products to just 450 which “meet customer needs and will be relevant in the future”.

Read more here >