AT&T Wireless Services Inc. made good on its commitment to launch UMTS-based services in Dallas and San Diego following the carrier’s previous network launches in July that included Detroit, Phoenix, San Francisco and Seattle. The UMTS launches fulfill AWS’ network obligations with technology partner NTT DoCoMo Inc. ahead of AWS’ pending acquisition by Cingular Wireless L.L.C.
The Dallas and San Diego markets were launched using radio access equipment provided by L. M. Ericsson, while the previous market launches used equipment provided by Nortel Networks Ltd. Lucent Technologies Inc. provided PC modem cards for the initial four-market launch.
The new market launches further AWS’ lead in providing high-speed data services in the most markets across the country and sets up the first chance for customers in a market to compare competing high-speed services, as Verizon Wireless offers CDMA2000 1x EV-DO services in San Diego.
AWS noted the UMTS service would provide consumers with network speeds of between 220 and 320 kilobits per second with bursts of up to 384 kbps. UMTS-enabled devices include a pair of handsets-the Motorola Inc. A845 and Nokia Corp. 6651-that both retail for $300 as well as Novatel Wireless Merlin PC modem cards that retail for $150 after rebates. The devices fall back to the carrier’s GPRS-based data network when outside of UMTS coverage in the six markets.
Rate plans begin at $25 per month for unlimited access through handsets on top of the carrier’s GSM-based voice plans, with businesses able to purchase unlimited access using the PC Card for $80 per month.
