Manx Telecom To Offer 3G Network

date: 12th January 2001, source: Yahoo News

Manx Telecom, the Isle of Man telco, said it is on target to launch what it claims is the world's first third generation (3G) network this May, and has contracted with ImageCom for its live video technology.

Wireless vendors have been promising great things from 3G, which is expected to start becoming widely available later next year, with the promise of up to 2 megabits per second (Mbps) while mobile.

Manx Telecom has been moving steadily towards offering the world's first 3G network, mainly because its parent company, British Telecom (BT), is looking to use the network on the tiny isle as a test bed for its UK and other wireless network interest.

ImageCom said that it has contracted with Manx Telecom to supply its real-time mobile video communications technology, adding to the promise of advanced games and data plus voice services.

The initial applications on the network, the firm said, will include both links from fast-moving vehicles such as TT racers, and two-way links to enable experts at headquarters to advise mobile emergency services anywhere on the island.

Martin Tufft, Manx Telecom's head of application and services, said that the ability to deliver new and exciting video communications to and from the mobile platform is a key differentiator of 3G networks.

"It provides an excellent opportunity for network operators," he said.

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