Future of UMTS

The next generation technologies, based on UMTS, are currently being deployed.

HSDPA, High Speed Downlink Packet Access

allows even more bandwith on the downlink, currently around 1.8 Mbit/s (category 12) and soon 3.6 Mbit/s (category 6), after that next leap will be up to 7.2Mbit/s

requires newer hardware (some devices allow flashing of firmware, enabling HSDPA software-wise)

HSUPA, High Speed Uplink Packet Access

will enhance the uplink bandwith, up to 5.8Mbit/s

currently being standardized by 3GPP