Vancouver-based wireless operator, Telus Mobility, has successfully tested a new cellular technology that could double the speed of its mobile data network by early next year.

Telus’ current HSPA+ network can deliver downstream bandwidth of up to 21-Mbps under perfect conditions. The new technology, known as ‘HSPA+ Dual Cell,’ will double the theoretical maximum speed to 42-Mbps. In real world conditions, the average download speed will be around 8-Mbps, roughly double the average speed for current mobile data users.

By increasing the capabilities of its data network, Telus is likely trying to stay one step ahead of new competitors, such as Mobilicity and Wind Mobile, which are aggressively promoting a number of deeply-discounted voice and data plans across Canada.

“We don’t spend this much money for the sake of bragging rights,” commented Telus’ senior vice president of technology strategy, Eros Spadotto.

Until now, Australian telecommunications giant, Telstra, was the only carrier in the world to have equipped its network with HSPA+ Dual Cell technology.