Scandinavian web users to get two LTE networks

Two long term evolution (LTE) networks are to be launched in Scandinavia, meaning mobilebroadband users in Oslo and Stockholm could have more efficient use of VoIP solutions.

The new networks will deliver connection speeds of as much as 100 megabits per second (Mbps) and regional mobile provider TeliaSonera is looking for volunteers to test the new technology in wider schemes throughout Norway and Sweden.

As well as potentially encouraging more people to use VoIP hardware and communicate cheaply with each other over the internet, the faster speeds could also deliver much faster download times.

Kenneth Karlberg, TeliaSonera mobility chief, said: "The use of mobile broadband in the Nordic countries is exploding and customers need higher speeds and capacity. This is why we launch 4G services in both Stockholm and Oslo."

The development of next-generation broadband is taking longer in the UK and although several internet service providers are making major investments in the area, the government has pledged to deliver universal connectivity of just 2Mbps for each home by 2012.