A new broadband information network, 3TNet, integrating telecom,
internet, radio and TV, and capable of offering state-of-the-art
video on demand services, has been introduced in many regions in
China.
After being tested in the Yangtze River Delta, 3TNet is now in
operation in many regions, according to the Ministry of Science and
Technology (MOST).
The project will enable Chinese netizens to enjoy interactive
broadband and rich media services at speeds of 41 Mbps. For most
Chinese families that have access to broadband, average speeds are
currently less than 10 Mbps, according to MOST.
The new interactive network gives users much more control and
versatility in terms of the services they receive. Users can order
up films and other programs using video on demand (VoD) as well as
a range of interactive digital programs and services such as
tele-medical and tele-education services, according to an official
from MOST.
The network also boasts an interactive video telephone
facility.
The official said China supports the integration of telecom,
internet and television networks in order to minimize information
technology costs.
The 3TNet project was developed as part of the "863" national
high-tech research program and was listed by MOST as a key project
from 2001 to 2005. More than 30 top Chinese firms, universities and
scientific research institutes -- including China Telecom, Shanghai
Media Group and the Institute of Acoustics of the Chinese Academy
of Sciences -- took part in developing the network.
Experts have long heralded the full integration of telecom,
internet, radio and TV services. According to the official, 3Tnet
is a landmark development which will spur the network market in
China.
China had 123 million netizens in June this year -- including 77
million netizens, ranking second in the world after the United
States.
(Xinhua News Agency November 20, 2006)