Virgin prepares to offer mobile broadband

Virgin Media is set to become the latest firm to enter the rapidly growing mobile broadband market after unveiling plans for a new USB modem.

The firm hopes to offer customers an innovative 'dongle' that can connect to the internet via a joint service with network partners T-Mobile, which should be launched by Christmas this year.

A Virgin spokesperson said: "The new dongle will look different to those currently on the market.

"Virgin will try to offer something that appears unique in a bid to compete. They want something which really distinguishes itself from the competition."

Th company currently has 3.78 million broadband customers and is expected to strengthen its position by bundling mobile connections with other services.

O2 was the last major operator to enter the sector in April when it released a new £20 per month 3GB package, which is compatible with GPRS, EDGE, 3G, HSDPA or Wi-Fi.