Sprint Begins EV-DO Launch

Sprint began rolling out its EV-DO (Evolution Data Optimized) service in airports and central business districts in 34 U.S. markets. As the roll-out continues, access will be available to approximately 92 million people in 14 broadly deployed metropolitan areas in Q3. By Q4, another 36 metro areas will be launched, so that service will be available to approximately 143 million people. By early 2006, the high-speed wireless data service will be available on a variety of devices throughout at least 200 urban and suburban markets in approximately 60 metropolitan areas.


Sprint said its service delivers average download speeds of 400-700 kbps and a peak rate of up to 2.0 Mbps.


Sprint's EVDO pricing starts at $40 per month for 40MB with a price cap at $90. Sprint also will offer an unlimited access plan through business sales channels for $80 per month.


Sprint is supplying EVDO cards from Sierra Wireless and Novatel Wireless.


Sprint plans to introduce EV-DO handsets and applications for consumers and business customers in the fourth quarter.
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