18th February , 2004

Europe UK : A look into the future, how will Vodafone deploy 3G?

- 45-50% 3G population coverage in the UK at launch in September/October
- 30% of Germany’s population will have access to 384kbps 3G data speed
- Asian handset manufactures making up the bulk of launch range
- A strong handset range, robust network and wow factor services will result in a Vodafone being the operator to beat for 3G in 2004

Mako Analysis, a UK based mobile market analysis, research and consulting firm, has unveiled an insight into Vodafone’s expected plans for 3G in its main European launch markets.

The Mako Analysis report, “Vodafone’s 3G Strategy- Estimated Network, Handset and Service Plans”, reveals the clearest estimations yet of the multinational giant’s European plans for its next generation service offering.

The research firm’s view of Vodafone’s UK network trial, launch and coverage plans (summarised below) reveals that 3G population coverage at service launch is estimated at 50%. The report also reveals that the consumer launch of Vodafone’s 3G services is expected to take place in September/October 2004 in readiness for the ramp up towards the brisk Christmas sales period.

The report also states that Vodafone’s 3G launch will be the most robust yet in the European market and will go a long way to rectifying some of the public relations damage that has arguably been inflicted by Hutchison Whampoa’s 3 operations on the technology in 2003.

A spokesperson for Mako Analysis commented, “We have gathered a large amount of evidence surrounding Vodafone’s 3G intentions and if they remain on track they appear to be in a very strong position come Christmas 2004”. He went on to state, “A successful 3G launch rests upon the operator’s ability to deploy a robust network, have a range of compelling handsets and deliver services that have a wow factor, we believe Vodafone has a great deal of strength in each of these areas”.

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