SHENZHEN residents are expected to be able to use 3G mobile phones by the end of March, which will allow them to do much more with their mobile phones.

Third-generation (3G) mobile phone networks let users speed through Web pages, enjoy streaming video, watch on-demand TV programs, download and play 3D games, and videoconference with other users.

China Mobile said it will stage a trial run of its 3G network in eight major cities on the mainland, namely Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, Shenyang, Qinhuangdao, Xiamen, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, until the beginning of March.

The company has opened 3G stores in which residents can try out 3G phones.

Until now, China had delayed many times the issue of licenses for 3G phones, in order to draft a 3G charging policy and design related software.

(Mu Zi)