Manx Telecom is linking up with global firm Huawei as it invests £10 million in 4G over the next three years.
In addition to building the network’s infrastructure, Huawei will also supply the latest 4G devices enabling customers to take advantage of super-fast services with increased mobile broadband speeds several times faster than current 3G services.
Huawei will also update Manx Telecom’s 2G & 3G networks to the latest generation technology, improving performance across the entire mobile network.
Meanwhile island rivals Sure International have responded.
A Sure spokesman said: ‘Sure were also recently awarded a 4G licence in the Isle of Man and are investing heavily in a new 4G specific network with a view to launch in the early 2014.’
Mike Dee, Manx Telecom chief executive officer said: ‘Building a 4G network is a significant undertaking in terms of both investment and engineering.
‘Over the next three years we will invest £10million in 4G and we are very excited to announce our partnership with Huawei.
‘We have selected the best supplier, and the most advanced solution, which offers the flexibility we require to ensure that we can continue to offer our customers a world class service.
‘With our long history of pioneering mobile technology, and the wealth of expertise and experience which Huawei will provide, we are confident that our customers will experience the very best that 4G has to offer.’
Victor Zhang, chief executive officer Huawei UK, said: ‘I’m very pleased to announce our partnership with Manx Telecom.
‘They have a reputation for delivering innovative services to their customers and Huawei is honoured to have been selected to build Manx Telecom’s 4G LTE network.
‘As a global leader in 4G LTE, we offer Manx Telecom the world’s most deployed and advanced mobile communications solution.’
Mr Dee added that as well as being good news for Manx Telecom customers, the 4G network constructed in collaboration with Huawei would also bring many advantages to the Isle of Man economy.
Chief Minister Allan Bell MHK said: ‘A world class telecoms infrastructure is always high on the list of priorities for inward investors, so it’s vitally important that the Isle of Man keeps pace with other leading jurisdictions by introducing 4G.
‘I welcome the news that Manx Telecom plans to launch its 4G network next year.’