Meteor launches mobile broadband package

METEOR stirred up competition in the mobile broadband market with a new product launched as part of a €1 billion eircom investment drive.

The operator launched a 14.4Mbps mobile broadband product which allows customers to access the internet remotely at very high speeds.

It said it is one of the most advanced networks available in Europe.

Communications Minister Eamon Ryan said the move by Meteor to provide bill and pre-pay options to Irish consumers is “impressive”.

“Even more impressive is the speed of the broadband service being offered.

“A recent UN report saw Ireland move up the ranks for our use of communications technologies. There is no doubt that innovative companies like Meteor have a part to play in such advances and I wish them all the best in their future endeavours,” he said.

Broadband To Go is available only to customers in Cork city and the larger Dublin regions now but the operator will expand the service nationwide by the end of the year.

Meteor also has plans to begin trials of its network to speeds of 21.1mbps by the end of the year.

Eircom chief executive Cathal Magee said: “Broadband to Go ispart of an overall e1bn strategic investment programme within the eircom group.

“We are committed to rolling out the latest technology in both fixed and mobile services to all of our customers across the country.”

Pay As You Go customers can buy either a day pass at e2.99 for 500MB or a 30 day pass at e19.99 for 5GB. Bill customers pay e16.99 a month.

Meteor chief executive Larry Smith said: “Our priority is to provide the best mobile broadband experience for our customers with Broadband to Go.”