December to be climax for 3G market
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VietNamNet Bridge – Viettel and MobiFone have joined the race to provide three generation (3G) services, both hoping to institute service by December 2009.
In its contract, MobiFone committed to supply 3G services in 100 percent of populated cities in 63 provinces of Vietnam as of December 2009. This firm reported it is in the final stages of meeting its commitment, with installation of 2400 3G base transceiver stations and 7700 more stations planned within three years.
When launched, MobiFone promises to offer 3G service for over 52 percent of the population, using the HSPA technology which permits clients to have access to the internet, send or receive email and use content services at 7.2Mbps. The firm will also provide 3G roaming services with at least 50 3G networks worldwide.
MobiFone confirmed that the 3G band would help it improve the quality of the 2G network and reduce jams. On September 2, the company conducted its first 3G call.
MobiFone’s recent efforts reflect its goal to surpass other rivals and become the second provider of the 3G services in Vietnam.
At the same time, Viettel stated to complete its 3G tests in HCM City and will also supply 3G services in December, six months earlier than scheduled.
According to its 3G contract, Viettel had promised to launch 3G services by June 2010. The company will invest up to 12.8 trillion dong (over $711 million) in the 3G network within three years. Upon its launch, Viettel’s 3G service will cover 100 percent of the population, with 15,000 BTS.
However, Viettel is aiming to make shortcuts. A Viettel official said the company may provide 3G service by December 2009. It introduced 3G services at trading centres in HCM City from October 10-15.
VinaPhone was the first telecom network offering 3G services, beginning October 12, 2009, but in the first month, faced problems in terms of quality and coverage. These matters were resolved in November and the 3G quality is now stable.
PV
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Originally Posted by jackbl
Telecom charges to fall further
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VietNamNet Bridge – From January 15th 2010, the set national charge for phone calls made between different mobile networks will fall by around 30 percent, hopefully allowing telecom service providers to further reduce charges.
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