Long Term Evolution (LTE) is the next step in the mobile network technology evolution from WCDMA/HSPA. While HSPA+ builds on radio and core network technologies from GSM and UMTS (Wideband CDMA), LTE completely transforms the mobile radio network design. It will provide even higher bandwidth, lower latency, and greater mobility than HSPA+, and in the future shared sector bandwidth of well over 100 Mbs thereby allowing customers to realize even greater speeds.
With LTE, customers will enjoy playing games online, downloading and watching High Definition videos or movies even more, and with MiFi hotspot for multiple devices and tablets they will have greater mobility.
We use technology based on the 3GPP family of standards. Currently our mobile networks consist of GSM/GPRS, EDGE/HSDPA and HSPA+/LTE technology. The 3GPP family of standards are the most broadly-deployed worldwide, and allow for our customers to use their mobile devices on networks around the world. The standard determines how the digital wireless signal is transmitted between the mobile device and the cell tower and also manages the limited amount of frequency available in a given location.
In the far right hand corner of your screen your device will display '3G' or 'HSPA' or 'HSDPA' or in some instances it may simply show an 'H'. The icon displayed varies according to the handset or device make and/or model.
The move to a modern 2G and new 4G network is a key step in improving the capacity and robustness of our data network. This paves the way for continuous improvements in service quality. The new network is designed to support expected growth in the foreseeable future.
There will be different types of data plans to cater to varying lifestyles of our customers. In some scenarios it may be necessary to throttle (reduce) speeds to ensure that as many customers as possible have a positive user experience on the network. As such some of Flow data plans may feature a Fair Usage Policy. Where applicable, these feature usage policies will be documented and explained to our customers.
We offer up to nine devices that are perfect for mobile data and are 4G compatible. These include BlackBerry Bold 9900, BlackBerry 9860, the Apple IPhone 4S the Huawei Mi-fi E586.
However, Flow is committed to offering a range of new high performing 4G devices including USB modems, mobile phones, tablets and MiFi devices at launch. As more devices become 4G devices become available Flow will make every effort to ensure that its customers have access to purchase these devices as they become available.
In any case, don't forget you don't need to get a device as fast as 21 Mbps to enjoy an amazing experience. Already, 3.6 Mbps will give you the feeling of your broadband at home and 7.2 Mbps will give you a faster speed than many people enjoy in their homes today.
No. You will need to subscribe to one of our mobile data plans. Flow offers a variety of data plans for BlackBerry, smart phone of on-the-go data devices (such as dongles/USB modems).
Yes. Flow's new 4G network has been designed to be easily extendable to support LTE and in the very near future Flow will be rolling out 42 Mbps HSPA+ in some of its countries of operation.
Security on 2G (GPRS and EDGE) and 3G networks are all extremely secure and the 4G HSPA+ networks, offer the same level of security mechanisms and are complemented by upgraded security features. Customers should always be cautious when sharing information electronically and should take all necessary precautions to safeguard their personal sensitive informative information.
With a network dimensioned for 21 Mbps, typical user speeds will be between 4-15 Mbps at peak periods. Of course, the speed achieved will depend on traffic load, coverage and even more importantly, the mobile device used. Currently there are only a few devices capable of such speeds but LIME will carry 4G devices in its handset range as these devices become available. Like many international carriers, Flow presently stocks an array of smart phones and data capable devices which are capable of download speeds of up to 3.6 or 7.2. These devices will perform exceptionally well on the new 4G network.
No. Existing customers will be able to enjoy the new 4G network speeds as long as they have a mobile Internet data plan or BlackBerry data plan and compatible mobile phone or BlackBerry device. Customers may also upgrade their mobile data plans as their data usage patterns change.
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