Europe UK : Vodafone UK and Huawei Technologies ("Huawei"), a leader in providing next generation telecommunications network solutions for operators around the world, today have launched the next generation of USB device, the Vodafone Mobile Broadband USB Modem Stick or E172. Boasting High Speed Uplink Packet Access (HSUPA) technologies and innovative design, it will be available to Vodafone UK's customers.

The E172 enables uplink speeds of up to 2Mbps and download rates of 7.2 Mbps. Within Vodafone's HSPA network, the device will facilitate fast internet browsing, instant access and the uninterrupted ability both to upload and download data. Combining cutting edge technologies with sleek design, Vodafone's customers can look forward to enjoying high-speed wireless access, both at home and on the go. The plug-and-play featured devices are compatible with Windows (Vista and XP) and Mac OSX, whether run on a PC, laptop or handheld device.

The Vodafone E172 is the world's slimmest and smallest HSUPA USB stick, and was designed with the elegance of a sleek white piano in mind. Highly portable, is perfect for mobile users, and built-in features ensure that the USB's cap cannot be dropped or lost.

"For personal use or remote working, customers buy Vodafone for predictability, unrivalled speeds, reliability and ease of use. Our customers are seeing real benefits from the ease of use offered by our USB plug and go device, coupled with our increased network speeds. As a result, they have increased their usage six-fold as they use the service to work more productively or surf the internet", commented Kyle Whitehill, Vodafone UK, Enterprise Director. "Vodafone was the first to improve download speeds with HSDPA (High Speed Downlink Packet Access), the first to increase upload speeds with HSUPA, and now we're pushing the boundaries of usability even further with a groundbreaking compact design."

"We are looking forward to launching the E172 in collaboration with Vodafone and are confident that customers will be delighted with the mobile lifestyle they will enable," said Steven Lau, director of Huawei European Terminal Department. "Consumers expect mobile service providers to demonstrate constant innovation and Huawei is very pleased to be working with Vodafone to fulfill these expectations."