Virgin ups the broadband ante with 200Mbps service

Virgin Media is taking the wraps off its projected 200Mbps broadband service and is showing it to the public for the first time. The company is displaying the super-fast technology at the Ideal Home Exhibition, less than a month after it revealed that it would have a nationwide 100Mbps service available at the end of the year.

The company has been testing the 200Mbps service in trials in Kent but today is the first day that members of the public will be able to see the technology in action. Virgin Media said that the new service will allow users to download a music album in just 3 seconds and a high definition film in under four minutes. The company is set to extend trials of the service to Coventry but has not yet announced plans as to when the 200Mbps technology will be rolled out nationwide.

Ashley Stockwell, executive director, brand and marketing at Virgin Media said, "Ultrafast broadband like our 200Mbps service, will enable a whole household to enjoy cutting edge entertainment, not just via computers, but through an array of gadgets all over the home. By pushing the boundaries of broadband in the UK we hope to drive a change in the way Brits enjoy and experience digital entertainment and exciting new services."