T-Mobile USA launches 3G services
06 May 2008
Deutsche Telekom's US wireless outfit, T-Mobile USA, has finally got around to launching 3G services.
At present however, 3G service is only available in the New York City area, although the carrier plans to continue its network rollout across major US metropolitan markets throughout 2008.
T-Mobile has lagged behind its rivals in the US market because it has, until recently, had more limited access to spectrum. Instead, the operator has made much of its network of wireless hotspots as a valid alternative to 3G.
The US operator's deployment is interesting as it is seen as the first major urban deployment of 3G UMTS in the 1700/2100MHz bands. Later this year, Canada, Chile and Mexico are expected to auction the 1700/2100MHz spectrum bands and Argentina, Colombia and Ecuador have also earmarked these bands for wireless service.
Chris Pearson, president of 3G Americas, an industry body for the region, said of the announcement, "The 1700/2100 spectrum band is a common spectrum allocation for North, Central and South America. T-Mobile USA's 3G launch today will help grow the entire UMTS/HSDPA wireless ecosystem for this spectrum band at an important time, as other 1700/2100 spectrum auctions are scheduled to take place this year across the Americas."
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