Telcos scramble to upgrade existing 3G networks

Network operators are upgrading 3G networks to HSDPA faster than expected, according to new research from the Global mobile Suppliers Association (GSA).

The group found that the number of network operators installing HSDPA, which can boost download speeds to mobile handsets to between 1Mbps to 3Mbps, has risen 40 per cent in the past four months.

The GSA also said that the majority of the 102 operators which have commercially launched 3G/WCDMA services have also committed to deploy HSDPA in their networks.

"Most WCDMA networks in Europe and beyond are expected to have activated the HSDPA upgrade by the end of 2006 for delivering the high speed mobile broadband experience," said the Association in its report.

The GSA has also reported a rapidly expanding range and availability of HSDPA-capable user devices, such as PC datacards, phones and embedded laptop modules. Around 25 devices were launched in the market, more than double the figure of six months ago.

HSDPA networks are currently running in 14 networks in countries including Austria, Finland, Bulgaria, Germany, Israel, Kuwait, Portugal, South Africa and the US.