Wataniya Telecom, a leading telecom services provider in Kuwait, said it has begun the test phase of its ultrafast 4G long-term-evolution (LTE) network, which will be commercially available in the first half of 2013.

Announcing the test launch, Wataniya said customers can test the speed and capabilities of 4G at a number of locations in Kuwait and share their feedback on the speed.

These free trials are being done mainly to ensure that the enhanced and evolved 4G technology is at par with the highest international standards, said a statement from the Kuwait telecom firm.

This innovative technology is the next step in the natural evolution of mobile internet. As per the industry standards, 4G has the potential to offer speeds of more than 100 Mbps and is a huge development over the previous generations.

Besides Wataniya Telecom headquarters, the 4G network will be available for free tests at 20 locations across the country including at shopping malls.

These include two locations in the Avenues Mall, Kuwait International Airport, Marina Crescent, 360 Mall, Kuwait University –Shuwaikh, restaurants area in Bedaa, SouqSharq, The Scientific Center, The Village in Abu Alhassani, Al Kout Mall , Hilton Mangaf Hotel, Kuwait Petroleum Corporation, Sulail Al-Jahra Resort, Safir Fintas Hotel, Al-Bayraq Mall, Ministerial Complex, Kuwait Magic and Kuwait Oil Company.

At these locations, customers will be provided with 4G WiFi enabled devices which they can connect to their laptops or tablets to download, play online games and watch HD videos. To share feedback on their experiences, the customers can visit Wataniya’s website, the statement added.-TradeArabia News Service