Operator says latest test in Spain achieved "actual" peak data download rates up to 16 Mbps, with faster speeds to come.
Vodafone worked with Ericsson and Qualcomm to test the technology in the field following laboratory tests.At present Voda's mobile broadband customers can access data at speeds up to 7.2Mbps.
Vodafone now plans to trial mobile broadband data connections with peak rates of up to 21Mbps early in 2009 using HSPA+ MIMO.
The operator reckons the technology will be capable of delivering a typical video download experience of more than 13Mbps in good conditions and an average of more than 4Mbps across a full range of typical cell locations including urban environments.
If the trials prove a success, Vodafone plans to make HSPA+ MIMO available in selected commercial networks.
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Andy MacLeod, Global Networks Director at Vodafone, said: “Successfully demonstrating a live HSPA+ high speed connection has been a key milestone in continuing to build confidence in this new technology. The results show that HSPA+ technology is well placed to further enhance our customers’ mobile broadband experience through the evolution of our existing 3G networks.”
