Telecoms firm O2 has begun trialing its next-generation mobile network, with areas of Dublin, Cork and Galway taking part in the test.

The company said a number of its business customers would be trialing the service, equipped with 4G-compatible devices.

A number of sites in Dublin city centre, including the Docklands, will have access to the next-generation mobile service, along with some areas of Galway city and Cork city.

For customers who haven’t made O2’s trial, the 4G devices can be seen and tested in selected O2 stores, including Grafton Street and Henry Street in Dublin, Patrick Street in Cork and Shop Street in Galway.

The company said it was part of its ongoing investment in its network, under which it has already upgraded 3G services throughout the country. The €70 million investment improved services at 250 locations across 14 counties.

In November last year, O2's parent company Telefonica paid €125 million for an allocation of high-speed spectrum for 3G and 4G services. CIARA O'BRIEN