O2 has been rolling out 3G900, a new type of 3G to the UK (it operates in a different band of frequencies to the original 3G).
O2 is the first UK operator to take advantage of the change to its 900MHz network licence and the new 3G900 network layer in London is expected to deliver a 50% increase in capacity to O2’s existing 3G network.
For us Smart/Net Rover users, the added capacity & speed of this new frequency means greater coverage in rural areas and faster download speeds for SmartNet, reducing network latency, ensuring your RTCM data messages are timely and accurate. The new Leica Viva Controllers and antennas have built-in UMTS/HSPA 900MHz compatible antennas, ensuring these signals are used when available; have the “Use UMTS” option ticked in your RTK Profile.
Basically it increases network capacity and performance as the 3G frequencies are less contented by multiple users, also the 900MHz band has better penetration into buildings so in theory you should receive a stronger signal. 3G 900 is cable of achieving download speeds of 7.2mbps, whereas standard 3G is around 3.5-4mbps.
It is phone specific:
Iphone 4 / 4S , iPad 2 , Blackberry Torch 9800 , Blackberry Bold 9780 , Blackberry Curve 9300, Blackberry Curve 9105, HTC Desire, Samsung Galaxy S II, Samsung Galaxy S, Samsung Galaxy 10.1 Tablet, Sony Ericsson Xperia X10 and X10 mini, Nokia N9 , Nokia Lumia 800, Motorola Razr (Spyder)
This is just a bridge between 3G and the soon to be 4G. In the same way EDGE is a bridge between GPRS and 3G.
For more info, see:
http://mediacentre.o2.co.uk/Press-Releases/O2-first-to-switch-on-new-superfast-3G-900MHz-network-2f8.aspx
to check the coverage in your area:
http://www.o2.co.uk/coveragechecker#
