ntl:Telewest has selected Ericsson (NASDAQ:ERICY) as a technology and services partner to help with developments to its telephone network using VoIP technology. ntl:Telewest is the UK’s largest cable operator and a leading UK provider of broadband and communications services.

A 5-year agreement has been signed by the two companies. The initial phase of the agreement is to help build a Residential Voice-over-Broadband service utilising the Ericsson IMS platform which has been installed and is undergoing testing ahead of launch.

Under the agreement, Ericsson will also be involved with upgrading ntl:Telewest voice network from circuit-switched technology to IP using Ericsson’s IP-based Telephony Softswitch solution. Planning for the network transformation is currently underway and will involve the migration of circuits across the network from TDM to IP thus utilizing the current IP network more effectively and producing cost savings through out the network.

Jacqueline Hey, managing director for Ericsson in the UK, said: “NTL is already seeing the benefits from its investment in its network. We are delighted to have concluded this agreement which will see Ericsson technology introduced that will provide gains in both network running costs and efficiency.”

“Ericsson’s advanced IP Softswitch and IMS architecture products will allow NTL to create new IP-based services for its wide range of business and residential customers,” Hey added.

Ericsson is shaping the future of Mobile and Broadband Internet communications through its continuous technology leadership. Providing innovative solutions in more than 140 countries, Ericsson is helping to create the most powerful communication companies in the world.