REDWOOD SHORES, Calif.-Managed enterprise mobility solutions provider iPass Inc. added mobile virtual network operator to its list of offerings with the addition of CDMA2000 1x EV-DO capabilities to its iPassConnect universal client.
The company said it has integrated nationwide 1x and EV-DO services from an unnamed carrier into its 3G/EV-DO virtual network that also currently includes more than 21,000 Wi-Fi hot spots and dial-up access points in 150 countries. While iPass would not name the carrier partner, the company’s EV-DO coverage claims mirror Verizon Wireless’ EV-DO deployments.
In connection with the EV-DO addition, iPass said it has certified Sierra Wireless’ AirCard 580 wireless modem for use with its Mobile Data Service.
Analysts noted the announcement confirms iPass’ plans to become an enterprise-focused mobile virtual network operator.
“This statement essentially confirms iPass’ ambitions to play as an enterprise MVNO,” said Emma Mohr-McClune, wireless analyst at Current Analysis. “New references to the `iPass 3G/EV-DO network,’ and a new marketing emphasis on `iPass Mobile Data Services’ underline iPass’ confidence in its new guise as a service provider.”
Fiberlink Communications Corp. announced a similar EV-DO integration into its Extend 360 software and All Access service plans in May. Fiberlink did not name a carrier partner at the time, but cited network deployments and speeds similar to Verizon Wireless’ EV-DO plans.
