With all the talk about the new mobile broadband networks and high speed packet access (HSPA) technology you would be forgiven for thinking that the once coveted 3G network is on its last legs.
Indeed the 3G network is still used by millions around the globe but there is popular belief that it will become extinct as soon as 4G technology takes centre stage circa 2010.
Despite the grim forecast for the 3G network, Vodafone seem to be sticking to their guns and have announced that they are rolling out a 14Mb mobile broadband plan across the UK.
The major cities will benefit first with London, Liverpool and Birmingham all topping the list.
Vodafone have happily reported that over 80% of all current 3G dongles and handsets can take advantage of these new speeds.
Liverpudlian’s will be on top of at least one list come 2010.
Now as we are always reporting here at Simplifydigital, advertised speed is one thing but actual speeds are a totally different ball game and this is perfectly illustrated in Vodafone’s ‘80% claim’.
You see, whilst 3G technology cannot substantially support speeds of 14Mb Vodafone claim that over 80% of their 3G customer base will be privy to the 14Mb advertised speeds. Why? Because the 14Mb speed is only a theoretical speed and whilst Vodafone are legally allowed advertise speeds of up to 14Mb you will most likely be receiving half of that.
Vodafone will obviously be transferring their current developments in broadband technology to the 4G network and while it’s easy to throw stones from the Simplifydigital towers we must admit that it’s refreshing to see some telco companies out there pursuing the need for speed.
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