Vodafone Hungary has launched its 3G services in Hungary, and the first service from Vodafone will be high speed Internet access on the new 3G network with the Vodafone Mobile Connect 3G data card, Hungarian media said Monday.

Vodafone Hungary 3G coverage is currently available in inner areas of Budapest, both in terms of size and quality exceeding regulatory requirements. Vodafone customers can also use 3G roaming services in six countries.

"As 3G is Vodafone's strategic investment, following the present launch we will continuously develop our network based on market demand and broaden the range of new services offered. As a part of this we will begin selling 3G handsets and introduce our 3G multimedia services in 2006 based on a further broadened 3G coverage," said Vodafone Hungary's CEO Attila Vitai.

Mobile operator Vodafone Hungary has awarded contracts for equipment to build its 3G network.

Finnish telecoms solutions provider Nokia is to supply a complete WCDMA 3G core network, with its 3GPP Release 4 based MSC Server System, including the Nokia MSC Server and Nokia Multimedia Gateway, and Nokia packet core network equipment for 3G.

Germany's Siemens Communications is to deliver and install all necessary WCDMA radio equipment for the implementation of the 3G network.

Vodafone Group Plc provides an extensive range of mobile telecommunications services, including voice and data communications, and is the world's largest mobile telecommunications company.

Source: Xinhua