Nokia Siemens Networks have made the world's first Downlink Dual Carrier EDGE call. The software-based technology could enable speeds up to 592kbps on existing networks.

With the rise of technologies such as 4G, LTE, but for now, HSPA and Super 3G, GSM is being seen as cheap alternative, but it is widely used in networks for cellular calls, and internet in areas where 3G and other faster technologies are not available. Most GSM networks are configured with EDGE as well, although it is classified as 3G radio technology by the ITU, and commonly referenced as 2.75G.

The joint venture between Nokia and Siemens is currently working in EGPRS 2B, a connectivity technology that could increase speeds to 1.2mbps for downlink, and 473kbps for uplink. The current EDGE speeds stand at 238kbps for downlink.

[via Cellular-News]