O2 launches 4G mobile broadband network in London

O2 has today launched a 4G mobile broadband network in London as it continues to trial the technology.

It is hoped that 4G mobile networks, which will replace current 3G networks, will offer similar download speeds to landline broadband, making it possible to stream HD video, music files and play online games over a mobile network.

The trial will run for the next nine months with over 25 4G sites covering an area of 40 square kilometres appearing between now and summer 2012. The network will reach from Hyde Park to The O2 in Greenwich and will cover areas including Canary Wharf, Soho, Westminster, South Bank and Kings Cross.

Richard Dunne, CEO of O2 in the UK said:

"Today's launch of the UK's first 4G London trial network demonstrates our commitment to delivering 4G to our customers at the earliest opportunity. The work we are doing now will lay the foundations for our commercial 4G network when it launches in the UK."

O2 will provide consumers, businesses and entertainment venues with compatible technology during the trial.