Sprint Nextel Unveils Plans for Nationwide 4G Mobile Broadband Network

Strategic Insights -

Sprint Nextel Corp., a leading wireless telecommunications provider, has announced its plans to develop and deploy the first nationwide fourth-generation (4G) mobile broadband network in the United States. This cutting-edge infrastructure will utilize the mobile WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) IEEE 802.16e-2005 technology standard, enabling customers to experience faster speeds, lower costs, greater convenience, and enhanced multimedia quality.

Key Takeaways:

  • Sprint Nextel plans to deploy a nationwide 4G mobile broadband network using mobile WiMAX technology, working together with Intel, Motorola, and Samsung.
  • The network will offer advanced wireless broadband services for computing, portable multimedia, interactive, and consumer electronic devices.
  • The 4G network will use Sprint Nextel's extensive 2.5GHz spectrum holdings, covering 85 percent of the households in the top 100 US markets.
  • Sprint Nextel aims to launch the advanced wireless broadband services in trial markets by the end of 2007 and deploy a network that reaches as many as 100 million people in 2008.
  • The company expects to invest $1 billion in 2007 and between $1.5 billion and $2 billion in 2008 relating to the 4G mobile broadband network.
  • Intel, Motorola, and Samsung will provide mobile WiMAX-enabled chipsets, infrastructure, and device support, facilitating the rapid deployment and adoption of mobile WiMAX technology.
  • The 4G broadband network will offer a complementary, high-bandwidth service driven by data-centric devices, with Intel delivering next-generation WiMAX solutions.
  • Motorola and Samsung will offer single- and multi-mode devices designed to enable seamless mobility for users, while Samsung will also deliver dual-mode devices supporting Mobile WiMAX and CDMA2000 1xEV-DO.

Statistics:

  • Sprint Nextel will invest $1 billion in 2007.
  • The company expects to invest between $1.5 billion and $2 billion in 2008.
  • The 4G network will cover 85 percent of the households in the top 100 US markets.
  • The network will reach as many as 100 million people in 2008.
  • Intel, Motorola, and Samsung are committed to supporting Sprint Nextel's 4G mobile broadband network.

Sources:

  • Sprint Nextel Corp.
  • Intel Corporation
  • Motorola, Inc.
  • Samsung Telecommunications America