Nokia Siemens Networks' Multiflow could double 3G speed
updated 04:30 pm EST, Mon February 20, 2012
Nokia Siemens, Qualcomm team up on Multiflow tech
Network gear builder Nokia Siemens and mobile chipmaker Qualcomm will hold a demonstration at next week's MWC show that promises to double 3G data speeds. Called HSPA+ Multiflow, the tech allows devices that are close to the edge of a mobile base station's cell to connect with a second, adjacent base station. This results in two simultaneous data streams to a single user device rather than just one from a single base station.
The demo will include a Nokia Siemens commercial base station and prototype USB dongles from Qualcomm. A radio frequency network emulator will connect them. Other than the doubling of data speeds, Nokia Siemens also claims 50 percent faster response time, though reference numbers weren't provided.
The Multiflow system requires network gear, modems, and smartphones to be upgraded, though some of its equipment can be upgraded with just software.
Nokia Siemens and Qualcomm are hoping to make Multiflow a 3GPP standard by mid-year, with a commercial launch due in the latter half of 2013.
