Number four U.S. mobile operator T-Mobile has announced that it’s activated its first 3G data wireless data service offering in New York City. The 3G capabilities will boost T-Mobile’s wireless data speeds from 50 to 80 Kbps to about 200–300 Kbps, helping it better compete with bigger mobile operators which have long been offering high-speed wireless data services. Eventually, data speeds on HSDPA handsets should reach 600 Kbps.
By the end of 2008, T-Mobile said it plans to expand the 3G wireless offering to an additional 20 to 25 U.S. markets where the "majority" of its subscribers use data services.
"The launch of our 3G network comes at a time when 3G phones and services are more affordable, capable and appealing to our consumer marketplace than ever before," said T-Mobile’s chief development officer Cole Brodman, in a statement. "Today, T-Mobile USA customers already have among the highest adoption of data and messaging services in the industry. Through our 3G network, we look forward to delivering a rich portfolio of new and meaningful services to enrich our customers’ lives."
Current T-Mobile handsets will automatically connect to eh best available network for data services (whether that be 3G or GSM/GPRS/EDGE). T-Mobile says it plans to offer its first HSDPA device in coming months.
