Cable operator Virgin Media claims its new super-fast 50Mb broadband service will enable consumers to download films in just over three minutes and TV shows in just 60 seconds - although the service will cost as much as £51 per month for new subscribers.

Virgin Media said that the new service, unveiled today, would include a premium launch offer that includes unlimited downloads and no "traffic management", which caps usage and download speed at peak times.

The company claimed the 50Mb service will allow users to download a music album in "as little" as 11 seconds, a TV show in "around" one minute and a "high quality" movie in "as little as 3.5 minutes". A high-definition film will take around 15 minutes to download.

Customers who also sign up for a landline phone, at £11 per month, can get the new super-fast broadband service for an extra £35 per month. Virgin Media is offering a bundled "triple play" subscription to a landline, its cable TV servcice and the new super-fast broadband for £66 a month.

However, consumers just signing up for the new broadband offering - and no other Virgin Media services will have to fork out £51 a month.

Guardian

Does anyone know what Technology it is based on?
Will it be available to the US in the near future?