[News] Vodafone first to launch 4G in NZ

4G – the world’s fastest mobile network technology – has today launched in New Zealand, heralding a new era in superfast access to content and information on the move.

Vodafone’s 4G network is up to 10 times faster than standard 3G services, allowing customers to stream, download, upload, browse and game faster than ever before. Kiwis can download a book in less than a second, stream a half hour show in less than 5 seconds and download an album in less than 3 seconds. And 4G delivers a near seamless connection to the cloud, allowing businesses to upload and download attachments in seconds, and load web pages instantly.

4G is live now for Vodafone customers in parts of Auckland and the network will expand to more suburbs every week. 4G will be live in parts of Christchurch in May, and parts of Wellington in August/September 2013.

Russell Stanners, CEO of Vodafone New Zealand, says the launch of a commercial 4G network is a major milestone for New Zealand.

“For many people, their smartphone has become one of the few items that they can’t leave home without. 4G is the network that the best smartphones were made for, meaning you can access all the information and entertainment you want in real time – and connect faster than ever before.

“Our customers have come to expect that Vodafone will bring them the world’s best technologies first, so we’re proud to be the first to bring 4G to New Zealand. We have now joined other countries around the world which are already seeing the benefits of the increased speed and performance 4G delivers.

“It’s another exciting first for Vodafone customers –and for New Zealand.”

Vodafone’s 4G network is supported by the world’s leading mobile device manufacturers including Apple, HTC and Samsung. Six 4G-capable devices are available at launch – including iPhone 5, Windows Phone 8X by HTC and Samsung GALAXY Note II 4G variant – giving Vodafone New Zealand the largest range of 4G-capable devices. By the middle of the year, Vodafone will have more than 12 4G capable devices on offer.

Kiwis wanting to experience the speed of 4G will need a 4G-capable device with the latest software, a qualifying plan and be in a 4G coverage area. The device seamlessly switches to Vodafone’s next fastest 3G speeds when customers leave the 4G coverage area. To use their 4G network, you also have to pay an additional $10/mth (incl. GST) unless already included in your plan.

Vodafone customers can keep control of 4G data use with Vodafone’s exclusive Data Angel ® service. Data Angel® alerts customers when they’re approaching their data allowance limit, and when their limit is reached – letting customers use their device freely while staying in control of how much they spend.

Vodafone’s 4G network build is being carried out in partnership with long-standing partner Nokia Siemens Networks.

For more information please visit: http://www.vodafone.co.nz/4g/

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