As anticipated, T-Mobile USA has commercially launched its 3G UMTS/HSDPA network in New York City. The carrier said the service will support both voice and data services, despite the rumors that the initial launch would not support data. By the end of 2008, T-Mobile USA plans to rollout its network in major cities across the U.S. The carrier also announced plans to launch its first HSDPA device in the coming months.
Current Analysis characterized the rollout as frustrating: "We are taking a slightly negative stance on T-Mobile's upgrade to a 3G network, as the much delayed launch (planned since T-Mobile won spectrum in late 2006) was further impaired by the fact that it is available in only one market (New York), with a limited number of compatible handsets and with the complete absence of suitable applications or services that can truly take advantage of faster network speeds. This provides potential early adopters of 3G technology with much less incentive to use the new network," the firm said in a recent note.
For more on T-Mobile USA's 3G plans:
- check out this T-Mobile USA 3G press release