Vodafone has upgraded its 3G network in the UK and claims mobile broadband users in some areas can now access the web at a theoretical maximum of 14.4Mbps.

The company says it is the first mobile operator to hit that level, although only those in areas of London, Birmingham and Liverpool can use the upgraded service at the moment.

Vodafone said it plans to roll out 14Mbps mobile broadband to the rest of the UK "on an ongoing basis".

However, while 14.4 Mbps is the theoretical peak rate, customers can expect to see typical speeds of anything between 1 and 4Mbps with a practical maximum speed of 10.8 Mbps.

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Most current Vodafone mobile broadband customers can access the faster speeds immediately. The company said over 80 percent of all Vodafone datacards/dongles and 3G handsets can take advantage of the improved network.

"Customers trust us to deliver a mobile network that they can rely on - wherever they are and whether they are individuals, or a small, medium or large business," says Jeni Mundy, Chief Technology Officer, Vodafone UK. "Today's network upgrade means customers can be reassured we're consistently enhancing the quality of our network in response to demand."

See also:

Vodafone mobile broadband review