Europe: Vodafone Hungary announced the launch of its 3G services in Hungary. The first service from Vodafone will be high speed internet access on the new 3G network with the Vodafone Mobile Connect 3G data card. Vodafone also stated that the 3G network development is driven by the need for good coverage and the high quality of the service, which is in line with the very rigorous Vodafone Group requirements.

The philosophy of offering high quality and wide range 3G coverage is behind Vodafone's 3G network rollout timing. Attila Vitai, Vodafone Hungary 's CEO said: "Vodafone's 3G plans are - from the very beginning - driven by fulfilling the needs of our customers at the highest possible level. We deliberately decided not to enter the arena of timing war, and will stick to our original plans."

Vodafone globally operates the world's largest mobile network. Vodafone launched 3G in 15 countries and offers 3G services for over 5 million customers. "By meeting the strict Vodafone Global requirements, we will be able to offer the full range of 3G services at full quality, which, I believe, is in the best interest of our customers" Vitai added.

Vodafone Hungary 3G coverage is currently offered in inner areas of Budapest, both in terms of size and quality exceeding regulatory requirements. Vodafone customers can also use 3G roaming services in 6 countries. "As 3G is Vodafone's strategic investment, following the present launch we will continuously develop our network based on market demand and broaden the range of new services offered. As a part of this we will begin selling 3G handsets and introduce our 3G multimedia services in 2006 based on a further broadened 3G coverage" said Vitai.

Background information

Vodafone Mobile Connect 3G data card offer:

The first 3G service from Vodafone is fast internet access on the operator's new 3G network with the Vodafone Mobile Connect 3G data card (VMC), Europe's first high speed laptop data card.

With data rates of up to 384kbps, the Vodafone Mobile Connect 3G data card will enable Vodafone customers to access all their usual office applications like e-mail, calendar and internet at up to seven times the speed of GPRS. This enables customers with a laptop to work or entertain anywhere just as if they were in the office or home.

Vodafone broadband mobile internet solution represented by Vodafone Mobile 3G data card offers great value for laptop users by a low data card price of 17,990 HuF (with 2 year postpaid subscription) combined with compelling Internet prices both for average users and those new to Internet.

Data card users can select from two Internet access packages based on their usage patterns.

The standard Internet package contains 200 MB for gross 3125 HuF. Monthly 200 MB data traffic corresponds to 40-60 hours typical web browsing, which fits most Internet users. Charges depending on usage above 200MB are summarized below:

Data traffic / month Basic monthly fee
(gross) Additional charges on extra traffic
(gross) Total services
(gross)


0-200 MB 3 125 HUF - 3 125 HUF
200 MB - 0,5 GB 3 125 HUF 3 875 HUF 7 000 HUF
0,5 GB - 1 GB 3 125 HUF 3 875 HUF + 6 000 HUF 13 000 HUF
Above 1 GB (x. is no. of GB above 1 GB) 3 125 HUF 3 875 HUF + 6 000 HUF + x * 17 000 HUF 13 000 HUF + x*17 000 HUF

The new Internet 50 bundle package includes 50 MB for gross 1990 HuF, which is primarily suitable for Email users, plus can support light (up to 10-15 hours per month) Internet/Intranet browsing. Above 50 MB, additional 0,5 HuF per 10 KB is charged.

Vodafone Mobile Connect 3G data card users can further speed up their connection to the Internet with a built-in Internet optimizer and with optionally installed Enterprise Optimizer for corporate applications. The latter is a unique solution in Hungary for corporations, providing up to five times faster and more cost-effective remote access to office e-mail.

To maximize network connectivity in all conditions and enhance data throughput performance, external antenna (price is gross 5,990 HuF) is available for 3G data card.