By Darius Chang
28/11/2006
URL: http://asia.cnet.com/reviews/mobilephones/0,39050603,61970569,00.htm

Despite some claims, current 3G speeds simply cannot match wired broadband. Will the first commercial launch of M1's High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA) service fulfil the mobile broadband promise?

Unlike Singapore's Intelligent Nation 2015 plan, which will offer wireless hotspots in certain key locations on the island, M1 Broadband promises high-speed Internet connection wherever there is cellular coverage. Devices compatible with its wireless service include 3G routers, HSDPA USB modems and the new Fujitsu LifeBook Q2010 with a HSDPA SIM card slot. There are three plans available and prices are the same for both consumer and enterprise customers.

Plan	Monthly subscription	Speed
Broadband 384	S$22	Download: 384kbps Upload: 384kbps
Broadband 1800	S$38	Download: 1,800kbps Upload: 384kbps
Broadband 3600	S$68	Download: 3,600kbps Upload: 384kbps

	The Vodaphone Plug-and-play wireless modem adds HSDPA function to your PC.

With no additional fixed-line charges or registration fees, and free loan of plug-and-play wireless modems and routers, M1 is coming in strong as the first HSDPA player in Singapore to launch commercially. Orders can be made via its online store, retail outlets and telephone hotline from December 6, with free delivery island-wide thrown in for online and phone sign-ups. Existing customers on its 3G Sunsurf 38 and 68 plans will be automatically migrated to the Broadband 384 plan from December 6. However, note that while M1's service is usable in countries with HSDPA networks such as US, Australia, the Philippines and Malaysia, overseas roaming charges still apply.

Competitor SingTel isn't just resting on its laurels. The local telco announced today that its postpaid mobile customers can enjoy free HSDPA services on trial till end February 2007, simply by activating their HSDPA-enabled handsets and devices and registering online.. However, unlike M1's island-wide coverage, SingTel will initially be providing this service along only the Orchard Road shopping belt, stretching from Dhoby Ghaut to Ngee Ann City. It is planning to extend the HSDPA service to the rest of Singapore by the end of next year.

Though StarHub has HSDPA services on its roadmap, at press time it did not disclose when it could roll out its wireless broadband plans.