Norwegian incumbent Telenor is pledging to offer 3G coverage to 95% of its subscribers by end-2012.
The telco is accelerating its 3G expansion program in response to growing smartphone penetration and associated data usage. The firm claims half its subscribers already use smartphones, and predicts the figure will hit 70% by the end of the year. Data traffic increased 20% sequentially in 1Q12 and is tipped to grow 150% in total through 2012.
Telenor’s coverage goals will be achieved by boosting signals in towns and cities, and by building new 3G base stations to replace 2G kit.
“The Norwegian people’s use of mobile phones has changed dramatically,” explains Berit Svendsen, managing director of Telenor Norway, adding. “Customers need to be sure that we offer the best coverage, quality and capacity, both now and in the future. That is why we are focusing on 3G expansion.”