Telenor launched its 4G LTE network in 11 cities and towns in Norway, stating that by the end of 2012 more than one-in-three of the population will be covered.

The company is initially targeting tablet and computer users, although the company is promising handsets imminently – “4G mobile phones are now being stocked by retailers”, said Berit Svendson, CEO of Telenor Norway.

Rival TeliaSonera, which operates in Norway under the NetCom brand, has already deployed LTE networks in the country.

Telenor also said it is extending its 3G coverage, to provide access to mobile data services where 4G infrastructure is not deployed.

The company has switched on its 4G network in Oslo, Bergen, Trondheim, Stavanger, Lorenskog, Sandnes, Lillestrom, Asker, Baerum, Lofthus in Hardanger and Longyearbyen.

By the end of 2012, coverage will be extended to Fredrikstad, Sarpsborg, Skien, Porsgrunn, Drammen and Kristiansand. Tromso will be added in the first quarter of 2013.

“The current rapid development of digital services places increased requirements on the mobile network, and with 4G we are taking an important step towards increased capacity and faster speeds,” Svendson said.