|
|
| you are here: Home >> 3G News |
|
Today saw the launch of 3's long awaited next generation mobile phone network in the UK, allowing users to see each other via their phones. 3 UK opted for a low-key launch and became the first telecoms operator to launch 3G mobile phone services in the UK where telecom investors has been anticipating for three years. The symbolic date of 03-03-03 is also the birthday of Alexander Graham-Bell. Consumers can try their hands on the service via the NEC e606 and Motorola A830 handsets in 3's outlets. The NEC e808 was not available to try but a 3 salesman at the shop said the NEC e808 would not be available until mid-March. Services that consumers can try include video conferencing, video download, location-based information and other advanced services on the handset.
The video calling function on the e606 was of reasonable quality but still contained some jerkiness. The voice that comes via the earphones or a built-in-speaker were slightly out of synch with the videos. Video clip quality varied depending on the content and the handset that is used to download the clip. Some site links were unreachable with error messages such as 'Cannot connect' often appearing.
However, there are still no handsets available for sale and customers who pre-ordered will have to wait between four and six weeks for the delivery of handsets. The 3G coverage area is limited now to southern part of England and will increasingly cover many of the cities, major towns and motorways in the UK said 3. Patricia Hewitt, Trade and Industry Secretary, made the UK's first public mobile video call to Stephen Timms, the e-Commerce Minister. "Today marks the arrival of 3G services in the UK. As the leading western market, the UK will be the pathfinder for this new technology," she said. Canning Fok, Managing director of Hutchison Whampoa, also made a brief appearance in the Oxford Street store to try out the service and to support the UK launch. Consumers can pre-register handsets in high street outlets such as Carphone Warehouse, The Link, Phones4u and Dixon. Those that register before the end of March and subscribe to the 'Kit On 3' or 'Caboodle On 3' tariffs will get a 50% discount on their 3G handsets which normally retails between £400 to £450. One of the visitors to the shop said, "wow-they've got my attention and I'm signing-up".
|
 |
|
www.3GNewsroom.com, 2001 - 2007, disclaimer,
contact us
|
3G Motorola A920
