Superfast 4G mobile broadband is here! Manx Telecom launched the Island’s first 4G service today bringing speeds of up to seven times faster than the company’s 3G service. It’s the culmination of several years of planning, months of engineering work to install entirely new network infrastructure, and a commitment from Manx Telecom to invest ?10million in 4G technology over three years.
Mike Dee, Manx Telecom CEO, said that this is a historic day for Manx Telecom and for the evolution of mobile communications in the Isle of Man. He added:
“This is another first for Manx Telecom and we’re delighted to be able to offer this fantastic new technology to our customers. For those already on pay monthly smartphone plans with a 4G ready handset, there’s no extra cost to use the new network, as 4G access is automatically included in all of our smartphone plans. We’re also on track to deliver 95% population coverage by the end of the summer, which means that the Isle of Man will be way ahead of 4G availability in the UK. Our 4G licence commitment was to achieve a minimum of 33% coverage at launch and 95% two years after launch – but we know how much our customers love new technology, so right from the outset we were determined to exceed those initial commitments. Our investment in a completely new mobile network, also offers a better experience and improved coverage for 2G and 3G. In summary, the launch of our 4G network is good news for us, our customers, and ‘Isle of Man plc’ ”
Chief Minister Hon Allan Bell MHK welcomed the launch saying that the new service would play a major part in maintaining the Isle of Man’s reputation as a world class international business centre. He said:
“I welcome the news that Manx Telecom has now launched the Island’s first 4G service, and the company’s long term commitment to providing the Isle of Man with the latest communications technology. A world class telecoms infrastructure is always high on the list of priorities for inward investors, so it’s vitally important that the Isle of Man keeps pace with other leading jurisdictions by introducing 4G.”
Cycling superstar Mark Cavendish MBE is endorsing the new network in his role as a Manx Telecom 4G ambassador. The three time world champion and multiple Tour de France stage winner was recently presented with a Manx Telecom 4G smartphone when he visited Telecom’s store in Strand Street, Mark will be using Manx Telecom’s new 4G service when he’s on the Island.
For anyone who hasn’t experienced the superfast speeds of 4G, they can visit the store in Strand Street and try out over 25 4G ready smartphones and tablets, to experience it first-hand. For those wanting to take advantage of 4G but aren’t sure of how to go about it, visit www.manxtelecom.com/4g and enter your mobile number and you’ll be informed of the next steps you need to take.
4G delivers a significantly improved experience when compared to 3G and is ideal for consumers and businesses using mobile broadband for everything from downloading the latest app to streaming live HD TV. However, the construction of the new 4G network has also allowed Manx Telecom to improve coverage on the existing 2G and 3G networks.
Photo - Mark Cavendish MBE – ambassador for Manx Telecom’s superfast 4G – is presented with his new smartphone by Manx Telecom CEO Mike Dee outside the company’s Strand Street store.
