HUTCH launches 3G

Hutch Telecom Lanka launched its 3G services yesterday.

Initially covering the Western province, Hutch plans island wide 3G coverage with a total of 1000 BTS by July this year. Hutch's rollout of 3G services follows its entry into the post-paid market a few months ago.

"With only around 10 percent of the Sri Lankan population having access to the Internet we see great opportunity for the growth of our 3G network," Anand Prakash, COO of Hutchison Telecom Lanka said.

Although there has been a strong growth in both fixed line and mobile telephony in Sri Lanka, the development of the Internet still remains slow, accessibility remains limited and available services generally very basic. "Even though 3G by itself is not new to this country, what we bring to the consumer is higher download/upload speeds.

We can describe our service simply as the new experience the customer can have when they are surfing and it is because we are using newer technology. Our new generation software is capable of faster unhindered usage, which can override congestion to deliver a whole new and better experience in 3G," he added.

The 3G packages offered by Hutch will be exceptionally attractive. Hutch customers can buy services according to their specific needs. "All this will be facilitated through areas in the city of Colombo called the "Hutch Experience Zones". Apart from this we will be in the malls and select supermarkets" a company spokesperson said.

Hutch's investment in the 3G network is backed by its parent, the Hutchison Whampoa Group of Hong Kong. (SS)