Safaricom launches 3G service
Kenya’s largest mobile operator, Safaricom has launched its 3G network commercially. Subscribers will have access to high-speed mobile data services at speeds of up to 7.2 Mbps. The 3G technology will be available in Nairobi and its environs first, and rolled out throughout the country within the next year, the company announced at a media briefing. Safaricom launched a trial of 3G services in October 2006 and in October 2007 was awarded the licence to launch commercially. Trials on the 3G network were tested in a large-scale environment at major events. CEO Michael Joseph said Safaricom is diversifying beyond its traditional mobile voice service, to become an integrated voice and data provider, enabling data communications for businesses and consumers. The new broadband services will initially target corporate customers and small and medium-sized enterprises. Subscribers will need to acquire 3G-enabled handsets in order to access the internet, e-mail, calendars and other multimedia services. PC users will access the service using either a broadband modem plugged into a computer or a wireless router that allows a group of users high-speed access to the internet.
This will really open up to mobile internet usage for the masses! Together with the upcoming sale of Apple iPhone we will have lowed the bars even more to the masses of the people of Kenya.
Source:
TelecomPaper