Sprint Selects Samsung for WiMAX in Wash. DC

Sprint Nextel has selected Samsung Electronics, a leading provider of telecommunications network systems and handsets, to help develop Mobile WiMAX wireless broadband network infrastructure for the Washington D.C. and Baltimore, MD markets.



Washington D.C. and Baltimore, MD are the first markets awarded to Samsung since Samsung and Sprint Nextel agreed last August to work together on the major US carrier's 4G wireless broadband initiative which will use the Mobile WiMAX (IEEE 802.16e TDD OFDMA) technology standard.



Sprint Nextel is currently planning the network infrastructure for this market, with plans to initially deploy Mobile WiMAX base stations covering Washington D.C., Baltimore, and northern Virginia.



Beginning on December 7, 2006, and using Samsung network equipment and devices, Sprint made the first live Mobile WiMAX data calls in this market which is now demonstrating the delivery of high-speed data and streaming video. Sprint expects to start commercial service in the region in late 2007.



Samsung has committed to delivering six WiMAX- capable devices, including Ultra mobile PCs and personal media players. Samsung also plans to enter the WiMAX chipset business.

http://www.samsung.com

http://www.samsungwireless.com