By the time Nextel Communications Inc. completes rollout of its Nationwide Direct Connect service in August, it is expected to have some competitors in the push-to-speak space. A number of industry sources expect Verizon Wireless will launch a similar service on its CDMA-based network as early as July with Sprint PCS expected to follow.
Rumors of Verizon Wireless’ possible launch have been escalating as Web sites and Internet message boards have been ripe with pictures of possible Verizon Wireless-bound handsets from Motorola Inc. and Samsung Corp. that feature large buttons on the side and reports that the carrier has already begun to train sales staff on the new service.
Verizon Wireless spokeswoman Brenda Raney said the carrier does not have a comment on the rumored July launch date and reiterated Verizon Wireless’ previous claim that it will launch a push-to-speak service by the end of the year.
While Verizon Wireless is expected to be the first carrier to offer a competing service to Nextel’s Direct Connect, Sprint PCS’ offering is beginning to garner increased attention due to a company Web site that may hint to a possible service name and pictures of Sprint PCS-labeled handsets.
The Web site, http://readylink.sprintpcs.com/ptt, is titled “PCS Ready Link” and asks for users to enter a user ID and password. Speculation is that the Web site is a precursor to the carrier’s push-to-speak offering and will allow users to access advanced services.
A number of Web sites have also posted pictures of a ruggedized Sanyo handset similar to the 4900 model that is currently available from Sprint PCS with a large button on the side and Sprint’s name clearly visible on the front. Speculation is that the handset is currently being used by Sprint PCS for testing and that it will be offered as a construction industry-targeted handset once the carrier’s push-to-speak service is launched.
Sprint PCS spokesman Dan Wilinsky would not comment on either the handset pictures or the Ready Link Web site and said the company is currently testing push-to-speak and expects beta trials to begin shortly.
