Sprint PCS, BlueKite.com, and Sierra Wireless Revolutionize Wireless Internet Access

Strategic Insights -

Sprint PCS has announced a groundbreaking partnership with BlueKite.com and Sierra Wireless, marking a significant milestone in the development of wireless Internet access. The Sprint PCS Wireless Web Modem, a compact device integrated with Sierra Wireless' AirCard(R) 510, enables faster and easier access to the mobile Internet, eliminating the need for a landline phone jack or wireless phone and cable. This innovation sets a new standard for mobile professionals, providing them with unparalleled productivity and convenience.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Sprint PCS Wireless Web Modem is a compact device that enables faster and easier access to the mobile Internet, with speeds comparable to landline dial-up connections averaging 56 kbps or higher.
  • Developed by Sierra Wireless, the AirCard(R) 510 is a Type II Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) modem that features a unique internally stored antenna.
  • The modem is an ideal solution for mobile professionals in sales or service roles who travel frequently, providing them with a tool to enhance productivity and provide better customer service.
  • The integration of Sierra Wireless' AirCards and BlueKite's bandwidth optimization technology ensures seamless wireless connectivity and enhanced user experience.
  • The Sprint PCS Wireless Web Modem bypasses the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and connects directly to the Internet via the Sprint PCS network, eliminating the need for a phone number, password, or user name.
  • Bandwidth optimization software by BlueKite.com has been incorporated into the Sprint PCS network and the Sierra Wireless Watcher technology to increase performance, efficiency, and ease-of-use of the Wireless Web Modem.
  • Data Reduxion(TM) technology by BlueKite.com removes overhead, unnecessary delay, and redundant information from Web-based data traffic, resulting in a rich browsing experience comparable to a landline modem.

Statistics:

  • The Sprint PCS Wireless Web Modem has a speed comparable to landline dial-up connections averaging 56 kbps or higher.
  • The modem is available through Sprint PCS business channels and will be available in Sprint PCS retail stores and online at www.sprintpcs.com in mid-December.
  • The retail price of the Sprint PCS Wireless Web Modem is $399.99.
  • Existing customers can use the Add-A-Modem Card Option to use their monthly minutes for voice or data, or purchase a separate pricing plan for data-only.
  • Sprint PCS has licensed PCS coverage of nearly 270 million people in all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Sources:

  • Sprint PCS (www.sprintpcs.com)
  • BlueKite.com (www.bluekite.com)
  • Sierra Wireless (www.sierrawireless.com)
  • PRNewswire (Nov. 29, 2000)