While we wait for the launch of GSM 3G service by the private operators (BSNL & MTNL have already launched), the CDMA segment have already started providing the 3G equivalent (EVDO Rev.A) in mobile.

The service is available with OMH (Open Market Handset) SIMs which means that you can easily change service providers while retaining the same handset.

At present Reliance, TATA, MTS and BSNL (only Prepaid) is providing EVDO on Mobile.

The OMH EVDO handsets presently available and can purchased from open market are,
Samsung - Corby CDMA [touchscreen] and Metro (Rev.0 standard)
LG - 510 [touchscreen] (Rev.A Standard)

Existing customers would have to transfer their number to OMH SIM to get the benefit of EVDO

In addition, some non-SIM based handsets are also available (tied to operator) which must be purchased from the concerned operator.
Blackberry - 2 models (Rev.A Standard)
Samsung Galaxy (Android, Rev.A Standard)
Number would be programmed to the handset.

Imported handsets can not be activated with EVDO at present.

After activating the handset and OMH SIM, the customer would have to get EVDO from the backend by selecting a specific EVDO plan (Broadband+, Photon+, Blaze etc) in case of Reliance, TATA and MTS. The base rate is around 650/mth for 1 GB data. In case of BSNL EVDO prepaid, its pre-activated with rates of 5p/100 KB during day and 5p/200 KB during night.

The present coverage of EVDO is higher than GSM 3G. More than 70% of the country is now under EVDO coverage. GSM 3G is expected to take at least two years to match that.

The service is provided at Rev.A standard with download speeds upto 3.1 mbps and upload speeds upto 1.8 mbps. However, with Rev.0 Handsets, speeds would be restricted to 2.4 mbps and 256 kbps.

However, video calling on handset is not possible with EVDO.