Scandinavia (Sweden and Norway), is going to be the first to use 4G mobile phone network.

Mobile phone firm TeliaSonera has completed work on two 4G networks in Oslo and Stockholm. The company said that the first customers will be able to start using the networks in early 2010.

4G refers to the fourth generation of cellular wireless standards. It is a successor to 3G standard, with the aim to provide ultra-broadband (gigabit-speed) internet access to mobile as well as stationary users.

While neither standards bodies nor carriers have concretely defined or agreed upon what exactly 4G will be, it is expected that end-to-end IP and high-quality streaming video will be among 4G’s distinguishing features. Fourth generation networks are likely to use a combination of WiMAX and WiFi.

When fully implemented, 4G is expected to enable pervasive computing, in which simultaneous connections to multiple high-speed networks that provide seamless handoffs throughout a geographical area would be possible. Network operators may employ technologies such as cognitive radio and wireless mesh networks to ensure connectivity and efficiently distribute both network traffic and spectrum.

Despite the launch of 4G network, no handsets can yet use 4G. Initially customers will connect via a dongle (a small piece of hardware, just like USB flash drive, which is used to connect to other devices, like laptops of desktops) and a laptop.

Fourth-generation, 4G, networks are based around the technology, called Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology and downlink data speeds can hit 100 megabits per second, about ten times quicker than the fastest 3G networks.

The technology has been designed to overlay existing 3G networks and most operators have committed to upgrading to the faster system.

It has released no information about the cost of connecting to the high-speed network. The dongles for connecting to the LTE network are made by Samsung.

Handsets that would be able to use LTE are expected in mid-late 2010.

The high speeds offered by 4G will create new markets and opportunities for both traditional and startup telecommunications companies. 4G networks, when coupled with cellular phones equipped with higher quality digital cameras and even HD capabilities, will create new horizons for telcos and the user experience.