Mobile network 3 says it has achieved has 90% population coverage for its 3G services in the UK.  3 launched in the UK on 3 March 2003 and claims to have the best coverage for mobile entertainment and information services in the UK.
3, in partnership with Ericsson, has now integrated over 7,250 radio sites into the network, providing 3G coverage for all major towns and cities in the UK. The two companies unveiled their managed services partnership in December 2005. Under the agreement, 3 retains ownership of the network and IT assets, as well as responsibility for the strategic direction of the network and IT infrastructure. Ericsson is responsible for the management, operation and performance of that network and IT infrastructure.
Ericsson provided consultancy, development and systems integration for the launch of 3s X-Series late last year, and the two companies are now enabling HSDPA across the network to deliver higher data speeds and enable mobile broadband services.
Today is an opportunity to celebrate the completion of our first year working in partnership with Ericsson says 3 CTO, David Cooper. When we announced our managed services partnership at the end of 2005, we were the first network to take this innovative step. Over the last year, weve proved a managed services partnership on that scale not only works, but delivers the best service both for 3 and our customers.