Advanced broadband trials carried out in Austria

Innsbruck in Austria has hosted the first test in the world of multi-user broadband services with mobility on a Next Generation Mobile Network using Long-Term Evolution technology.

Network T-Mobile has been operating the test since July and it encompasses 60 radio cells, with the company focussing on the quality of the available service as well as the technology itself, reports Cellular-News.

The technology could be used to provide faster broadband connection speeds, while also facilitating greater use of VoIP hardware.

Jim Burke, chief technical officer of T-Mobile Austria, told the website: "With this showcase we implemented a complete new generation of mobile network, starting from remote radio heads to broadband fibre to all sites with lowest power consumption."

The trials could be a first step in improving broadband connectivity throughout Europe and has potential implications for providing services in rural regions of the UK.

In Britain, the government has been negotiating with mobile networks to free up part of the radio spectrum to provide rural connectivity where fibre cabling may be less practical.