Telstra will launch its 4G mobile network on Tuesday.

The new network – to be launched in capital CBDs and more than 30 regional and metropolitan centres – will enable access to some of the fastest mobile download and upload speeds available anywhere, Telstra said.

“Telstra’s 4G network delivers mobile speeds scarcely imagined a decade ago, making it easier for people to connect with the things they need and love when on the move,” Telstra chief executive David Thodey said in a statement.

“The superfast speeds mean consumers can download songs faster, get TV shows in minutes and do more things simultaneously.”

The 4G network can be accessed with a new Telstra USB mobile broadband modem, and will enable typical download speeds of between two megabits per second (Mbps) and 40Mbps.

That is up to ten times faster than 3G speeds currently claimed by Telstra’s rivals, the company said.

Mr Thodey said Telstra hoped to bring 4G-enabled smartphones and tablets to the market in the first half of 2012.