HONG KONG - China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited (CMHK), the wholly-owned subsidiary of China Mobile Limited announced Thursday the launch of their next generation of 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) mobile data services as well as a new Hong Kong-Mainland cross-border data sharing plan.

According to CMHK, the new 4G service, available from next Wednesday, uses LTE technology to provide users with high-speed data transfers which are 50 times faster than 3G networks, by delivering a maximum download speed of 100 Mbps and a maximum upload speed of 35 Mbps.

Meanwhile, CMHK also plans to scale up its 4G LTE coverage to a level on par with its current network, while indoor coverage will be up to 80 percent by the end of 2012. The cross-border data sharing plan, which is the first of its kind in Hong Kong, offers users the convenience and flexibility of a single number and data price plan in Hong Kong and when roaming in Chinese mainland.

CMHK Chairman Tiger Lin Zhenhui said, broadband demand for accessing the Internet "anytime and anywhere" is facing tremendous growth, corresponding with the global explosion of data. In the view of this trend, 3G networks have already lagged behind the data demand of this generation. 4G LTE is a next generation mobile communications technology developed to cater high-speed mobile internet.

He added, LTE is now replacing 3G as the next generation mobile communications technology on a global scale. The commercial use of 4G in Hong Kong will further enhance its leading position in the field of Information Technology applications.

Director and Chief Executive Officer of CMHK, Sean Lee, expressed optimistic about the development of 4G LTE technology. He said, more and more operators are turning their eyes to 4G LTE.

He also said, mobile device makers indicate that up to 20 4G smartphone and tablet produce will be launched in 2012, which is a key reason to believe that 4G will be picking up faster than 3G.

As to diversified services, Lee believed that integrated communications services for Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland are a major trend, which is why they offer the new cross-border sharing plan.

In addition, CMHK will set a VIP Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport form June this year, which can provide travelers with a range of roaming services and support, including technical support for roaming services, device rentals and roaming pre-paid cards.