9 September 2003

 

CSL Launches Asia's First Commercial EDGE Network

Enhancing mobile data services through leading edge technology

CSL today announced the launch of Asia's first commercial EDGE (Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution) network in Hong Kong. Mobile customers in Hong Kong will now be able to enjoy data applications at a faster data transfer rate when using an EDGE capable device, such as the new Nokia 6220 video phone.

Earlier this year, CSL signed an agreement with Nokia to deliver EDGE enhancements to CSL's existing GSM data network. The enhancements will enable customers in Hong Kong to access mobile multimedia services at higher speeds, and improve the quality of service such as Video Message, Multimedia Messaging Service, Java games, email and WAP browsing.

"We are pleased to launch Asia's first commercial EDGE network with enhanced quality in terms of reliability, capacity and speed," says Mr Hubert Ng, CSL's Chief Executive Officer. "The adoption of EDGE is a natural evolution of the existing GPRS network. The deployment of EDGE further strengthens our market leadership in the mobile communications industry. The EDGE deployment is also aimed at accelerating the adoption of mobile data services, and prepares the market when the next generation of mobile data gets widely accepted."

"CSL will first roll out the EDGE network covering key locations such as main MTR and KCRC routes, business districts, the airport and heavy data traffic areas. We will progressively develop EDGE in other areas when the demand grows," Mr Ng added.

"Nokia congratulates CSL on this significant achievement and milestone," said James Lin, Vice President and General Manager, Nokia Networks, Asia Pacific. "Backed by our strong position in EDGE & WCDMA technology, CSL can be assured of Nokia's continued commitment in enabling the company to achieve its business goals and enjoying a cost-effective migration path to the next-generation of mobile networks," he added.

EDGE enhances network quality and reliability. It also enables a maximum transmission speeds at 473 kbps. With the first EDGE-enabled handset - Nokia 6220 video phone, CSL customers can enjoy a series of mobile data applications at speeds up to 118 kbps, almost three times of existing GPRS services.