Operators explore new broadband markets with HSPA

摘要

Scepticism continues to surround the idea of 3G becoming a true replacement for DSL, despite the recent launch of several flat-rate, "all you can eat" mobile broadband services. Cheap modems and spare capacity on 3.5G high-speed packet access (HSPA) networks are the main drivers for the new offers, which enable subscribers to use broadband in areas where DSL might not be available, such as summer cottages. The move marks a departure in strategy from previous expensive, low-bandwidth, metered 3G data services marketed by mobile operators. HSPA data packages offer up to 7.2Mbps downstream, at prices comparable to those for DSL, with usage limits of several gigabytes a month (see fig.).