Sprint starts 3G rollout; carriers launch multimedia message sharing

- Gary Thayer, Editor

updated July 8, 2005 -- (MobileVillage) --Sprint (NYSE:FON) has begun launch of a new (EV-DO, Evolution Data Optimized) wireless high-speed data network that will provide mobile Internet access to about 150 million people in at least 60 metropolitan areas across the U.S. by early 2006.

Multimedia Message sharing frenzy

In other news, Sprint and T-Mobile USA announced that their subscribers can now share multimedia message services (MMS), such as pictures and videos with each other. T-Mobile USA also announced MMS sharing with Cingular, while Cingular for its part announced MMS sharing with Sprint, Verizon Wireless, Leap Wireless and U.S. Cellular, as well as T-Mobile USA.

T-Mobile USA is pricing its MMS message-sharing plans at $4.99 a month for sending and receiving a combination of up to 400 messages; $9.99 a month for up to 1,000 messages; and $14.99 a month for unlimited messaging.

Sprint's EV-DO rollout

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. As the roll-out continues, access will be available in 14 metropolitan areas in the third quarter.

By the fourth quarter, another 36 metro areas will be launched. By early 2006, the high-speed wireless data service will be available on a variety of devices throughout at least 200 urban and suburban markets in approximately 60 metropolitan areas, according to Sprint.

Information on Sprint's EV-DO service availability, devices and coverage plans can be found at sprint.com/wirelesshighspeeddata.

Sprint is selling two EV-DO-ready Sprint PCS connection cards - the AirCard 580 by Sierra Wireless and the Merlin S620 by Novatel Wireless -- that are available through business sales and retail channels. For business customers, pricing starts at $40 per month for 40MB with a price cap at $90 for those months when customers use the service more. Sprint also will offer an unlimited access plan through business sales channels for $80 per month. All prices exclude taxes and surcharges.

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