Sprint Nextel expanded its support of mobile virtual network operators with the launch of its Mobile Broadband on Demand service that will allow partners to rent devices compatible with the carrier’s 3G and WiMAX-based networks to consumers. The carrier noted the offering is targeted at “companies in the international, retail, travel and hospitality industries.”
Sprint Nextel explained that the offering will direct customers that purchase or rent a mobile broadband device to an MVNO-branded website where they can enroll for service using a variety of payment options. The variety of those data plans are up to the discretion of the MVNO. The MVNO partner can also provide access to its commercial website through the portal, provide sponsored browsing or create unique service offerings.
The rental option is expected to provide consumers with a mobile broadband device at a very low or free price point, while the purchase model will have the devices sold through established retailers.
Sprint Nextel has increasingly opened up its WiMAX-based offering to its prepaid and MVNO partners, including house brands Virgin Mobile and Boost Mobile. Clearwire is the carrier’s network partner for the WiMAX service, which has stated it has stopped expansion of that network at around 130 million potential customers covered. Both Clearwire and Sprint Nextel are now focused on rolling out LTE-based mobile broadband services.
Bored? Why not follow me on Twitter?
