Singapore MobileOne target October 3G launch

March 31, 2004

Singapore mobile operator MobileOne plans to introduce 3G mobile phone services in October or November. The operator did not say whether they intend to carry out a trial before the full launch.

MobileOne had previously stated the launch would happen during the second half of the year. Its network is already in place in Singapore's Central Business District and along major highways.

All three 3G license holders in Singapore has until the end of the year to rollout an island-wide network. The other two operators, SingTel and StarHub, are expected to meet the deadline although no launch date has been set. Singapore's biggest service provider, SingTel, had delayed their customer trials in December because of handset issues.

Even if the operators fail to introduce 3G services by year end, the regulator in Singapore may lessen the punishments. In an interview with Dow Jones Newswires, the Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) indicated they may soften the punishment for operators that does not meet the deadline. Chief executive Tan Ching Yee hinted that SingTel, MobileOne and StarHub may not be fined $ million if the deadline is not met. The IDA said the deadline was there to let consumers enjoy 3G services by the end of 2004.

Under 3G license conditions, operators can be fined and have their license revoked if they failed to rollout the network on time.