Virgin trials 200Mbps broadband

Virgin Media is trialling broadband speeds of up to 200Mbps on part of its network in Kent. The trials will be running for at least six months in the town of Ashford and will potentially offer speeds four times faster than Virgin Media's fastest package. However, as wireless network technology is not yet at a point where it can support speeds of 200Mbps, homes taking part in the trial will be limited to using fixed-line connections. Neil Berkett, chief executive officer at Virgin Media said: "We're really excited to be embarking on this journey of discovery. "With the only true next-generation network in the UK, we’re at the forefront of innovation and understanding when it comes to ultrafast broadband services and the 200Mbps pilot will give us further insight into how true 'wideband' services might be used by consumers," he continued. Virgin Media's 50Mbps broadband, which is currently only available in selected parts of the country, was launched in December last year. Though many initially criticised the £51 per month cost of the service, Virgin Media points out that it is aimed at households where there are often two or more people online at the same time. The ISP also pointed out that high speeds are necessary in delivering content such as high-definition or 3D video.