Hutchison Telecom Hong Kong Holdings' mobile division 3 Hong Kong has completed deployment of a 4.5G network along the Hong Kong section of the new Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB).
In anticipation of the launch of the bridge and the expected surge in traffic between Hong Kong, mainland China and Macau, the operator has also released new local tariff plans that allow customers to share data entitlements across the three markets.
3 HK commenced construction of the bridge's network infrastructure earlier this year and completed deployment in July. Network testing was conducted in mid-July, with data and voice services passing 4.5G network tests, and 3 Hong Kong said services will be available as soon as the bridge opens later this year.
“It is imperative mobile network facilities are ready for service when the HZMB opens. 3 Hong Kong has therefore worked tirelessly to build base stations on the deck of the bridge, as well as throughout tunnels and buildings,” HTHKH CEO Cliff Woo said.
“When open, the HZMB will stimulate movement of people and logistics between mainland China, Hong Kong and Macau, thereby increasing demand for data, so we have tailored innovative plans to suit differing customer needs. By collaborating with 3Macau and mainland operators, we will enable consumer and corporate customers to share data entitlements in and between the three geographies with flexibility, and enjoy seamless connectivity.”
The new plans include a Greater China Plan tailored to frequent travelers, with 4GB, 8GB or 12GB of shared data across four markets (mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan), a multi-SIM plan for SMEs and customers with multiple devices and a prepaid SIM offering 2GB of shared data entitlement at prices cheaper than buying a prepaid SIM in mainland China.
Meanwhile, 3 Hong Kong has also launched a Mainland China Numbering Service allowing customers to receive unlimited SMS to a mainland China number, as well as receive calls to a mainland China number in Hong Kong and have them charged as local calls.