ISLAMABAD, July 7: Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) Chairman Shahzada Alam Malik on Thursday said the authority would encourage mobile phone operators to shift to the latest ‘third generation (3G)’ technology from the second generation (2G) to benefit subscribers. “PTA will continue to introduce latest telecom technologies for the benefit of consumers,” the chairman said while speaking at a presentation on ‘mobile technology evolution from 2G to 3G’. The presentation was arranged by the authority at a local hotel.

The term third generation refers to latest cell phone networks that operate at a higher frequency, larger channel bandwidth and support very fast data transfer up to 2 mega bites per second.

The chairman also announced that a comprehensive policy on limited mobility of Wireless Local Loop would shortly be introduced as deliberations on the subject involving all stakeholders had been completed.

Earlier, GSM Association, a global trade association of GSM (global system of mobile phone) operators, had urged the PTA to strictly enforce its telecommunication policy as certain operators were providing mobile service facilities with fixed- line licences.

The chairman said the PTA was endeavouring to bring home latest cellular phone technologies including 3G. The authority, he said, would facilitate all operators to switch over to the latest technology as 3G had good prospects of gaining popularity in urban areas.

Shifting from 2G to 3G is a highly technical issue and the PTA will make all arrangements before its introduction by educating the people, he said.

During the presentation, Abdul Durani, a telecom expert, gave a briefing on the evolution of 3G technology.

He said 3G technology would enhance data transfer speed. Besides, broadcasting facilities would also be available at one platform.