Operators Get the Edge on 3G

[Malial]

Operators Get the Edge on 3G
By M2 Communications , Apr 10 2002

EDGE-enabled handsets are to be released by the end of this year and the technology is attracting attention from both mobile operators and vendors, the Global Mobile Suppliers Association reports.



EDGE ? enhanced data for GSM evolution ? allows operators to offer high-speed data services without having to pay for extra spectrum.

While the initial market take-up for EDGE has come predominantly from the US, in line with the need to overcome spectrum scarcity, there is now growing evidence that other regions, including Europe and Asia Pacific, are focusing on EDGE to complement to 3G strategies, the association said.

The GSA expects that from 2003, there will be a wide selection of EDGE-enabled handsets in line with operator demand, as a number of vendors have announced plans to ship infrastructure capable of operating in all four GSM bands.

Spectrum scarcity in the US is one of the key drivers for EDGE phones, and infrastructure that supports the 850 MHz band forms a crucial part of the GSM offering, giving better coverage faster, and providing data to a larger number of users, the association said.

In markets such as Brazil, the frequency combination of 850/1800/1900 is important to enable roaming. The GSA predicts 90 per cent of operators worldwide will commit to WCDMA and EDGE.

(C)2002 Van Dusseldorp & Partners -