Sprint Launches Wireless High-Speed Data Service

HostReview.com
Thursday, July 7, 2005; 04:24 PM

Sprint (www.sprint.com) has begun launch of a new wireless high-speed data network that will provide mobile Internet access to about 150 million people in at least 60 metropolitan areas across the nation by early 2006.

Sprint's new wireless high-speed data (EV-DO, Evolution Data Optimized) service, devices and applications will change how and where business is done and offer consumers an enhanced mobile multi-media experience.

Sprint is rolling out its EV-DO service initially in business corridors with high wireless-data traffic demands, such as airports and central business districts, followed by broader metropolitan areas. Service will begin during July in major airports and business districts in 34 markets.

Sprint also revealed a flexible pricing plan for two EV-DO-ready Sprint PCS Connection CardsTM – the AirCard® 580 by Sierra Wireless and the Merlin S620TM by Novatel WirelessTM – that are available through business sales and retail channels.

Sprint plans to introduce EV-DO handsets and applications for consumers and business customers in the fourth quarter.

"Satisfying and meeting customer needs for mobile data service is all about having the broadest range of connectivity choices and providing the best overall mobile data experience," said Len Lauer, president and chief operating officer – Sprint.

The Sprint EV-DO service provides a broadband-like wireless data experience that is up to 10 times faster than 1xRTT service, with average download speeds of 400-700 kbps and a peak rate of up to 2.0 Mbps. Users can experience faster downloading when accessing the Internet and retrieving e-mails, including large attachments and other bandwidth-intensive applications.

The new EV-DO service is expected to fuel additional growth in Sprint's growing lineup of wireless data services, an area in which Sprint is an industry leader.

"Mobile users are demanding more than just network speed, but want a combined offering that includes a fast, reliable and cost-efficient service with business services and applications that drive value into their businesses," said Phillip Redman, vice president of Research – Gartner, Inc.

The high-speed wireless service launch is an outgrowth of ongoing network improvements. Last December, Sprint announced a multi-year commitment of $3 billion dollars for network enhancements, which included the EV-DO service as well as its next generation Release A upgrade.