StarHub and Nokia to deliver Asia's first 3G network
SINGAPORE, 24 May 2000 - Consumers can look forward to more rapid deployment of technologies that enable mobile activities such as video on demand, sending electronic postcards, multimedia entertainment, access to corporate LANs and intranets, and video conferencing - all interactively and in real-time.
While all 3G services developed by StarHub and Nokia are subject to government approval, licensing and spectrum allocation, the companies intend to accelerate the implementation of Asia’s first complete 3G network with investments estimated at about S$500 million. This includes the implementation of advanced WCDMA (Wideband Code Division Multiple Access) 3G core and radio access network equipment to complement StarHub’s current GSM network.
Said Mr Terry Clontz, CEO of StarHub, “Most other operators today are only just committing to building GPRS capability, or 2.5G as it’s called. StarHub will not only launch GPRS, but our vision extends well beyond this year’s technology.”
The GPRS system, is targeted to go on trial at the end of this year. Tentative plans are to put the more advanced 3G system and its applications on trial towards the end of 2001. After which, StarHub will launch full commercial 3G services.
SingTel Mobile and MobileOne are also conducting trials on GPRS and 3G systems. Last year, SingTel Mobile announced a WCDMA trial with NTT DoCoMo and the National University of Singapore.
The 3G technology will enable faster information access from mobile devices, increasing the speed up to 2Mbs - 200 times faster than current mobile networks allow. This speed will enable the creation of new mobile multimedia and personal services based upon the convergence of mobile technology and the Internet.
To experience this 3G technology, there will be a demo at the StarHub and Nokia booths at CommunicAsia 2000, being held 6-9 June at the Singapore Expo, Changi.
