14 DAY TRIAL // Several mobile players have come together to form an organization that backs the creation of a 4G mobile phone network standard that they says will coexist with, and eventually replace, existing standard networks.
The organization, Next Generation Mobile Networks (NGMN), was started by KPN Mobile, Orange, Sprint Nextel, T-Mobile International and Vodafone Group.
The partners say they have extended an invitation to other members of the mobile industry to join the organization, which is expected to be established in the UK this month.
"The vision of the initiative is to provide a platform for innovation by moving towards one integrated network for the seamless introduction of mobile broadband services," according to a statement.
"The initial objective of the initiative is the commercial launch of a new experience in mobile broadband communications by 2010 to ensure a long and successful cycle of investment, innovation and adoption of new and familiar services that would benefit all members of the mobile ecosystem," the group added.
Target mobile technologies for the group include Packet Switched network architecture, HSDPA, HSUPA and EVDO. NGMN further said it addresses other industry issues, such as intellectual property rights.