Faster 4G network expected by the end of 2006 in U.S.

Not satisfied with just 3G (third-generation) mobile data? Or you haven’t started to use it yet? I think most of us haven’t yet experienced it to its full potential. Later this year, Sprint Nextel in the U.S. will roll out a faster 4G network using WiMax. (Sprint Nextel is the 3rd largest mobile operator in the U.S.)

The 4G network will offer downstream speeds of 2 megabits per second to 4 mbps (4096 kbps). Combined with fast uplinks, WiMax will offer enough bandwidth for mobile videoconferencing, transfers of large enterprise files and other applications. WiMax, an acronym that stands for Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, is a certification mark for products that pass conformity and inter-operability tests for the IEEE 802.16 standards. IEEE 802.16 is working group number 16 of IEEE 802, specialising in point-to-multipoint broadband wireless access.

How much will the 4G service cost? 1GB of data will cost less than US$20 (NZ$24). However, the 4G network is still too far away for us to use. Currently, the fastest Vodafone 3G network in New Zealand can only deliver a user experience of between 300 and 500 kbps.

Click the link for Vodafone 3G phones and mobile connect cards.