What do you need to avail yourself of 3G services? You will need to sign up for the service with your preferred provider. Currently two of the three are jostling for poll position. Your phone will need to be compatible. Check the brand website for compatibility, or go to your local mobile store for advice on your particular model. You need to have a device that is rated as HSPDA/UMTS (High Speed Downlink Packet Access/Universal Mobile Telephone System), or WCDMA when it becomes available in Jamaica. The service will be more expensive than regular voice service, although one provider has been advertising video calls at the same rates as voice calls. Watching TV on the go will attract its own costs.

Of course, with all this enhanced capability come some drawbacks in the corporate setting. ITC managers will be more concerned about security because such devices now open access into corporate networks. So do not be surprised if your IT department is somewhat slow to embrace these capabilities. They may just be trying to ensure the proper policies and procedures for support and accountability are in place before opening the gate.

-Errol Knight

'The service will be more expensive than regular voice service, although one provider has been advertising video calls at the same rates as voice calls.'