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3rd August ,2004

ASIA : The Infocomm Development Authority of Singapore (IDA) has issued to the mobile operators its measurement criteria for the nationwide rollout of 3G systems and services. The criteria will be used to measure whether the 3G licensees fulfil their licence obligations to complete the nationwide rollout of 3G systems and services by 31 December 2004. IDA has endeavoured to develop measurement criteria that are objective and technically realistic, with the policy objective of fostering the growth of 3G to the benefit of consumers in Singapore.

The measurement criteria for nationwide rollout are, "at least 95% of street-level 3G radio coverage on the island of Singapore, by 31 December 2004, using a signal strength that is greater or equals to minus 100dBm1". This is a measure of what the 3G network can minimally provide on service launch. In terms of user experience, this measurable service outcome allows users in 95% of Singapore to obtain a signal on their 3G phones for voice and data services. These criteria are similar to IDA's current measurement of out-door radio coverage for 2G services.

The measurement criteria were developed based on IDA's assessment of 3G developments overseas, and taking into consideration inputs from the operators to ensure the measurement criteria are technically feasible. At the same time, end users' expectations of 3G, and experience with 2G services provided today, were taken into consideration.

Said Mr Leong Keng Thai, IDA's Director-General of Telecoms, "IDA has endeavoured to ensure that the measurement criteria balance the interests of operators and consumers. In order to spur the successful development of 3G in Singapore, IDA's measurement criteria cannot be overly stringent. This is to allow the operators flexibility to plan future 3G enhancements, and time to make technical network adjustments for a new service. At the same time, IDA's measurement criteria are not overly lenient, so that operators will commit to invest in 3G infrastructure and provide quality service and nationwide coverage for end-users in different parts of Singapore."

IDA is confident that the measurement criteria will provide a sufficient kick-start to 3G rollout in Singapore. Consistent with its market-based allocation approach for 3G spectrum, IDA believes that the form and range of services should be left to competitive market forces. The operators have commercial incentive to define and expand the experience of its 3G customers, and ensure a good service outcome according to its own business strategy.

IDA's policy objective remains to foster the growth of 3G in Singapore. The measurement criteria for nationwide 3G rollout will ensure that consumers in Singapore will be able to benefit from the 3G experience come 31 December 2004.

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