Earlier this summer, Lucent Technologies moved the market for CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) technology substantially ahead with the introduction of equipment aimed at bringing the CDMA frequency to more mobile phone users across the world.
In Hong Kong, CDMA has caught on over the past year, thanks to moves like this that have brought CDMA to the 1800 MHz frequency.
'Carriers around the world have told us they want a choice of technologies in this part of the spectrum and moving CDMA to 1800 MHz will give them that choice,' said Scott Erikson, Lucent Wireless Networks vice-president.
CDMA has been applauded for its ability to bring mobile phone customers better voice quality than past networks.
Computer engineers and network experts are also excited about the expanded bandwidth CDMA offers for high-speed Internet access, although applications for these developments are still in the early stages.
Lucent marketing manager Wang Chuan said the firm was confident CDMA would overtake GSM, Hong Kong mobile service providers' preferred network choice.
'In the US, CDMA has taken the absolute leadership,' he said. 'In Asia-Pacific, wireless providers have increasingly realised the overall advantages of CDMA as a mobile communications technology.' Despite being a fully operational company for just under a year, Lucent has made great strides, pushing CDMA into Asian markets.