These new speeds represent the next phase in the HSPA evolution. By using Mobile Platform access technology, Ericsson combines two technologies - new higher order modulation technology (64QAM) with 2x2 Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) antenna technology.

The demonstration was conducted using a handheld form-factor device, which is connected to a laptop. It showed the full potential of HSPA's end-to-end multimedia services via faster video streaming and file downloads.

Jan Derksen, portfolio marketing manager at Ericsson, says: "This demonstration is solid proof that we are leading the HSPA evolution.

"New speeds mean shorter downloading time for the end user and increased network capacity for the operator. Depending on their existing network and with a software upgrade, operators have this year the possibility to provide between 21Mbps and 28Mbps as intermediate steps towards 42Mbps. They can now focus on providing attractive packages to customers, which only can get better as time passes."

Derksen says the HSPA ecosystem is the largest, providing broadband everywhere and for everyone, and many industry players follow Ericsson in the same direction. "This has led to a healthy and competitive market for everyone," he says. "It has also resulted in competitive business models and attractive prices for the end user."

Ericsson has a strong roadmap for HSPA. The first steps in HSPA evolution will be available by the end of 2008 and will include 64QAM technology. It is planned that speeds of up to 42Mbps will be available by the end of 2009.

Ericsson is working with operators who are planning for HSPA Evolution. "As a result of an earlier HSPA demonstration (with MIMO) at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona in February, several operators have already made the decision to follow the HSPA Evolution path and have started trials," Derksen says.

Vodafone is currently trialing the MIMO version of Release 7, which is capable of delivering data throughput rates of up to 28Mbps. Australian operator Telstra has an evolution roadmap with Ericsson which promises to deliver customer speeds of 21Mbps in 2008 and up to 42Mbps in 2009. 

Ulf Ewaldsson, vice president and head of Product Area Radio at Ericsson, says: "Achieving speeds of up to 42Mbps is a major industry milestone. It further strengthens the position of HSPA as the major mobile broadband technology as we go forward. Consumers will enjoy an even richer communications experience thanks to higher speeds, while operators will be able to reduce network operating costs via increased throughput enabled by HSPA evolution."