Vodafone claims first 3G voice call

Vodafone claims it is the first operator in the UK to conduct a working voice call over a third-generation (3G) network, despite counterclaims from BT Cellnet that it achieved the breakthrough four months ago.

Vodafone used a prototype handset to make the voice call over a 3G test network that has been set up in the Thames Valley. By contrast, BT staged its initial call in a lab environment.

But BT's Manx Telecom subsidiary is set to make a voice call in the Isle of Man using a 3G handset in two weeks' time, according to Mark Briers, director of universal mobile telephony system (UMTS) at BT Cellnet's parent unit, BT Wireless.

BT Cellnet has so far led the field in technological innovation, and was the first to activate a general packet radio service (GPRS) network in the UK. Manx Telecom expects to set up the world's first commercial UMTS network in June.

BT Wireless was bemused at Vodafone's announcement and said it was a "battle of semantics". "We're very happy that [Vodafone] keeps following us," said BT Wireless spokesman Simon Gordon.

Vodafone stuck to its guns, however, and said that it was still the first to have made a call over a commercial 3G network. "When we are the first in something we make an announcement about it," said a spokeswoman.

But despite the claims, neither network has yet proven 3G's reliability. Tony Milbourn, chief executive at mobile research and development company TTPCom, noted that the landmarks for UMTS testing are the first video and data calls over a 3G network.

"What's needed is a system where users can't tell whether they are on UMTS or GPRS. One can learn a lot from early testing of these systems, but they won't earn revenue," he said.

Also published in Computing

See also:

3G: Beyond the hype

The third-generation (3G) licence frenzy has left mobile operators with empty pockets and a head full of hype, wondering whether they can find a killer app to justify the billions spent on the licences.  01 May 2001

E-minister squashes 3G refund rumours

The UK Government has dashed rumours of third-generation telecoms licence refunds by confirming that it will not make any changes to the mobile licence agreements.  25 Apr 2001

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