Telefónica & Vodafone Increase Mobile Internet Speeds
November 10th, 2009 - Chris MarshallI look forward to the day when I can dump the need to have a fixed phone line in order to get ADSL at anywhere near half decent speeds here in Almerimar. Technically it is possible now of course, with the introduction of USB Modems containing SIM cards and the option to use these dongles in routers to provide WiFi networks.
The problem at the moment is that in reality the best 3G speeds aren’t good enough, and the coverage here in Almerimar is nowhere near good enough.
Was with interest though that I read that both Telefonica and Vodafone are introducing a ultra-fast mobile Internet network, known as HSPA+ technology, which offers theoretical speeds of up to 21 megabyte downloads (in reality tests are showing 14 megabytes) – both of which are significantly better than the best ADSL option sof 6 to 10 megabytes (and even that is a pipe dream here in Almerimar).
As far as Telefonica are concerned Barcelona and Madrid get the technology first, but by the end of 2010 all cities with over 250,000 inhabitants (so not Almerimar then!!) will have the new HSPA+
Telefonica has launched a special modem manufactured by Sierra Wirelless that will sell for 19 euros in a bid to the premium rate of Movistar, the Flat Rate Internet Maxi, offering, for 49 euros per month, up to 10 gigasbytes consumption and maximum speed network that offers HSPA+.
Vodafone on the other hand who are slightly more advanced with their plans say the fisrt six cities to get the new technology will be: Madrid, Barcelona, Valencia, Sevilla, Malaga and Bilbao
Popularity: 1%
