Vodafone Lines Up with the 3G Broadband Big Boys
Vodafone Lines Up with the 3G Broadband Big Boys
December 12, 2007: Vodafone Australia has announced plans to build a $500 Million 3G mobile broadband network before Christmas 2008.
The rollout will mark a significant expansion into the mobile broadband space for the telecommunications company and will put it in direct competition with other mobile broadband providers such as Telstra, Optus and Virgin.
“Building a national mobile broadband network is our number one priority for 2008 and we will make it happen on time.” said Russell Hewitt, Chief Executive Officer at Vodafone Australia.
According to Hewitt, the new network is aiming to provide high-speed mobile broadband to 95% of the Australian population and is an acceleration of Vodafone’s upgrade plans.
Vodafone currently offers 3G mobile services through a shared network with Optus in the major cities, and the new broadband network is expected to improve existing coverage for 2G and 3G voice calls.
“We’ll be going flat-out with teams upgrading sites in every state and territory, simultaneously. It’s a massive project but we’re very confident we can complete Vodafone’s national mobile broadband network upgrade within one year.” said Andy Reeves, Chief Technology Officer at Vodafone Australia.
The company has confirmed that it will continue its 3G joint-venture with Optus in metropolitan areas and will upgrade to the 900MHz and 2100 MHz mobile spectrum in the bush. Existing customers are also being told that existing Vodafone mobile devices will continue to operate under the new network with no upgrade required.
Pricing details aren’t available yet, though there is potential for the new plans to be in line with existing 3G mobile broadband providers and Vodafone’s entrance to the market could spark a price war.