Mobile virtual network operator Virgin Mobile SA has switched on its first third-generation (3G) mobile services, piggybacking off Cell C’s new network, and offering out-of-bundle broadband at 60c/MB.

Cell C recently sold its 50% stake in Virgin Mobile, though the virtual operator has agreed to continue using the former’s network. Cell C has been rolling out a national 3G network based on a technology known as evolved high-speed packet access (HSPA+), which offers theoretical download speeds of up to 21Mbit/s in ideal conditions.

“Customers with 3G-capable cellphones and modems will find that they can now benefit from higher data speeds following the upgrade of Virgin Mobile’s underlying cellular network,” Virgin Mobile says in a statement.

The company says it will not change its out-of-bundle data price of 60c/MB with the move to 3G services. It has also promised to introduce “low-priced prepaid and post-paid modem deals” in the next few months. — Staff reporter, TechCentral