Norwegian operator Telenor has joined the growing list of European operators with a 3G network open for consumer use. At the time of launch, the network covers 70 cities and densely populated areas in Norway.
“At the time of launch, the new network covers approximately half of Norway’s population, and we are committed to continue our network rollout as planned,” Telenor ceo Jon Fredrik said.
By March 2005, 132 cities and densely populated areas will be covered, and all areas with more than 200 people will have full coverage by 2007, the operator claimed.
During an introductory phase, Telenor Mobil customers will be able to make video calls free of charge. and customers in the consumer market will not be charged more than NOK5 per day for Mobile TV and other packet switched services.
Regular phone calls will be charged at current rates, depending on subscription plan. From next year, regular consumer prices will be NOK20 per downloaded MB, with a maximum limit of NOK 30 per day. Video calls will be charged NOK2.24 (Post-paid) and NOK 3.74 (Prepaid) per minute, in addition to a NOK0.99 start up fee. Regular business prices will be NOK10 per MB for the first 50MB per month, and NO 8 per MB exceeding 50MB.
Handsets include the Nokia 6630 smartphone, which can also work on Telenor’s EDGE network.