3 broadband customers could be released from their contracts if local 3G services are too poor to provide basic web access, it has been claimed.

Speaking to ZD Net, Hugh Davies, director of corporate affairs at the internet service provider, said that where basic web browsing and email cannot be supported, subscribers may be entitled to either a discount or a full contractual release.

"If you come within [our internal standards] and we can't resolve [the problem] technically or through a change to your terms, we wouldn't hold you to your contract," Mr Davies stated.

However, he explained that 3 has never advertised its mobile broadband services as offering a full range of web options, having always concentrated on providing basic browsing and email facilities.

"Where someone calls up and says they're not able to download videos or do streaming, that's not what it was intended for," he added.

Last week, 3 announced a new deal which sees Apple's iPod touch bundled with its MiFi internet service.