Lack of handsets delays BT's 3G launch

British Telecom has confirmed that significant implementations of its third-generation (3G) mobile networks may well be delayed until the beginning of 2003, due to a lack of compatible handsets. While BT's 3G strategy falters, NTT DoCoMo of Japan has announced that it will go ahead with the commercial launch of its 3G service in October, despite concerns over network performance.

"[3G] technology has slipped from when the licences were awarded," said Peter Erskine, chief executive of BT's wireless unit, who also announced a rebranding of BT's wireless division. The division, incorporating BT Cellnet, Genie, Viag Interkom and Digifone, will now be known as mmO2 and its brand will be O2 from spring 2002. --Chris Lee, IT Week