T-Mobile launches 3G/Wi-Fi card in UK

July 19, 2004

T-Mobile on Monday announced the launch of its 3G mobile service in the UK aimed at business users. The operator will initially provide access to its 3G network with a PC data card at speeds of 128 kbps. This will be increased to 384 kbps over the coming months.

The data card combines 3G and Wi-Fi technologies and means users will not only have access to 3G but also to Wi-Fi hotspots capable of much faster speeds. T-Mobile has over 500 hotspots in the UK including places such as coffee houses and train stations.

The combined 3G/Wi-Fi package costs £199 plus a monthly fee of £70, based on a 12-month contract, and includes unlimited data access on 2.5G, 3G and Wi-Fi. The service is free for the first three months.

Rivals Orange also launched its Mobile Office 3G data card service on Monday, which covers 66% of the population. Unlimited access to the service will cost £75 per month while the data card itself will cost £85. The launch was somewhat over shadowed by T-Mobile's unexpected announcement.

Vodafone was the first operator to offer 3G data cards back in February. But the company may have to slash it price as its most expensive tariff of £85 a month includes only 500 MB of downloads. A promotional offer running until 1st October doubles the amount of inclusive downloads.

T-Mobile's data card is the only one that is able to access Wi-Fi hotspots and will be its main attraction as its 3G network is currently only capable of 128 kbps while rivals Vodafone and Orange's 3G network are capable of 384 kbps.