The UK's first mainland third generation (3G) mobile network has opened for business, enabling callers to see each other and send video via their phones.
3G has been massively hyped, promising to take mobile phones to a new level with video and data.
However, there have been massive delays in rolling out networks and customers and phones will not be available until later this month, although High Street retailers such as Dixons and Carphone Warehouse have begun to take orders for the initial batch.
The handsets will cost about £400, although customers are being offered a 50 per cent discount if they order before the end of March.
The Hutchison 3 network is not technically the first 3G network in the British Isles as rival mobile firm O2 is already operating its network on the Isle of Man.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article