Mobile network operator Beeline announced on Monday that it will launch a 4G service by the end of the year.

Hout Vanthan, the chairman of parent company Sotelco, said the 4G network will be available in Phnom Penh by the fourth quarter of 2014.

Vanthan, who is also the chairman and chief executive of the Cambodian First Investment Specialized Bank, purchased Beeline in April last year from Dutch firm, VimpelCom.

“We all know that the mobile network industry market is very narrowed now,” he said, adding that the company is taking its time to launch the most reliable network possible, which in turn aims to increase Beeline’s market share.

In January, Smart Mobile, launched its 4G network in selected locations around Phnom Penh including NagaWorld, Sovanna Shopping Centre, Ratana Plaza Shopping Mall, De Castle Tuol Kork and Phnom Penh’s airport.

Thomas Hundt, CEO of Smart Mobile, said he is sceptical about the Beeline chairman’s fourth-quarter timeline.

“The deployment of 4G services is a complex and lengthy project,” he said.