UPC launches VoIP service

UPC Hungary says it has launched voice-over-internet protocol (VoIP) telephony services in Hungary, initially providing coverage to 300,000 households in ten districts of Budapest. The introduction of VoIP means that the cable operator is, for the first time, able to provide so-called ‘triple play’ services in Hungary. UPC plans to expand the service over the course of 2004-05: it currently provides cable TV services to 700,000 households in 70 cities, offers its broadband chello product in 13, and has a digital satellite TV service, UPC Direct.