Qatar Tecom (Q-Tel) has begun testing a 3G network, ahead of a planned commercial launch in June or July this year, according to its chief executive officer, Dr Nasser Marafih. Dr Marafih said that around 10% of its existing handsets were 3G-enabled, and added that ‘We don’t expect a large customer base for 3G initially, but it will definitely pick up later as is the case in other parts of the world.’ He also said 3G service would initially be offered in the Greater Doha area, with coverage to be eventually extended to other areas, including Al Khor, if market research revealed suitable demand.
Meanwhile, Q-Tel and Siemens Communications have announced a joint investment of USD2.5 million for a 3G laboratory at the College of North Atlantic in Qatar (CNAQ). The lab will test UMTS functionality and services with specific tools and equipment, and will provide access to the lab and equipment for testing, training and applied research purposes to Q-Tel and Siemens.