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Information technology services industry

GTE Activates First National Wireless Data Network with OnStar

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

GTE has announced the activation of its first national wireless data network, called WIN(4), which marks a significant milestone in the evolution of wireless communication services. The network was designed by GTE Wireless to handle commercial information services and data traffic, and it will be used by OnStar, the nation's leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security, and information services. WIN(4) offers seamless wireless connections and can accommodate messages of any size, making it a vital platform for various applications, including emergency services, machine-to-machine communications, and industrial monitoring.

Key Takeaways:

  • GTE Wireless has activated the first national wireless data network, WIN(4), which is designed to handle commercial information services and data traffic.
  • OnStar, the nation's leading provider of in-vehicle safety, security, and information services, is the first major user of the network, using it for their new OnStar devices in 12 GM models.
  • WIN(4) offers seamless wireless connections, can accommodate messages of any size, and provides industry-standard coverage throughout the United States and Canada.
  • The network uses GTE's existing wireless network, in addition to arrangements with more than 30 other carriers, and offers exceptional reliability and affordability.
  • The WIN(4) network has various applications, including emergency services, machine-to-machine communications, and industrial monitoring, and it is designed to work the same way everywhere.
  • The network is a key feature for national commercial applications, providing ubiquitous coverage, two-way messaging, competitive service pricing, and a single point of contact for national service and web-based provisioning.

Statistics:

  • The WIN(4) network is the first to accommodate messages of any size.
  • The network offers seamless wireless connections between remote equipment and monitoring sites for a wide variety of applications.
  • OnStar sold about 50,000 units through 1998.
  • The new 3-button format, featuring one-touch access to an OnStar advisor for routine help and a special "priority call" button for emergencies, is a standard feature in the new Cadillac Escalade sport utility vehicle.

Sources:

  • "GTE Activates First National Wireless Data Network" (Business Wire, March 25, 1999)
  • "GTE Unveils WIN(4) Network for Wireless Data Services" (GTE Corporation, 1999)

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