Background –The 3 network is available across eight countries and has over 10 million customers. In the UK alone, 3 has acquired 3.5 million 3G customers, up by nearly half a million since March 2005.This mobile broadband service makes use of 3’s mobile network. It allows users to get online using portable modems anywhere without needing to find a hotspot.3 has recently made the ‘dongle’ (portable USB modem) popular among computer users.
Awards–Mobile Awards for MOKO at the MEFFYs June 2007, Best 3G Operator and Best Internet Service 2006 Mobile Choice Consumer Awards in London, Consumer Innovation Award, Mobile Entertainment Operator of the year, Mobile Entertainment Awards 2006, Communications Innovation Content Award for SeeMeTV, FT World Communication Awards 2006.
Suitability –This service is good for tenants, students, and people on the move. We like mobile broadband because you don’t have to pay a land line rental (approx £11 monthly) or installation fee (£124.99 from BT).
Our verdict –Mobile broadband is great for surfing and emailing. On the other hand, if you want to do a lot of downloading, fees can be outrageous. Also, the contracts are very long (18 months) and do not allow for much flexibility.
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