Dialog EDGEs into Sri LankaDialog EDGEs into Sri Lanka

Dialog GSM becomes the first mobile operator in Sri Lanka to offer EDGE services

March 5, 2004

2 Min Read

COLUMBO, Sri Lanka -- Dialog GSM – the leader in mobile data technology has become the first mobile operator in the country to provide commercial EDGE Data services commencing with the Southern Colombo area – an added advantage to Dialog customers using data services.

Subscribers are however required to possess an EDGE capable Handset to benefit from the technology. For subscribers possessing an EDGE Handset, EDGE - Enhanced Data Rates for GSM Evolution- will enable faster mobile data speeds enabling faster data download while on the move.

Commenting on the availability of EDGE capable handsets, a Dialog Source explained that EDGE capable handsets have only recently been introduced to the global market and only two models are available internationally. These handsets are currently in the topmost price bracket – costing approximately Rs 70,000 at present. Also, devices such as PC data cards and PDAs, which are traditionally GPRS enabled, are not available for EDGE as yet.

EDGE is an extension to GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) – on average, current versions of EDGE are capable of delivering around 64 kbps compared with the 32-56 kbps provided by GPRS. The actual data speed however depends on several factors – such as whether the user has an EDGE handset, the user’s locality, and the availability of and proximity to EDGE base stations. While GPRS is available throughout the network, EDGE data services will be available only where the network has installed EDGE capable base stations.

“Dialog GSM will as always provide clear information on the areas where EDGE coverage is available and also advise customers with respect to handset requirements”, said Nushad Perera – General Manager, Sales and Marketing of Dialog. “Subscribers should check with their service provider on these two aspects – ie EDGE base stations and compatible handsets. We welcome such enquiries and will be at hand to assist our data users with the relevant information”. He also explained that the EDGE handset will display a special icon where EDGE coverage is available.

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