Cox Communications said it successfully completed trials for voice and high-definition video streaming over LTE, the first clear indication that the MSO is moving toward deploying the next-generation wireless technology.
The company said the trials were conducted on both AWS and 700 MHz spectrum, and that Alcatel-Lucent and Huawei helped it test wireless services and applications. Cox conducted the trials in Phoenix and San Diego, and said it chose the markets because its customers there gravitate toward advanced technologies.
Cox has so far focused its wireless efforts on the launch of its CDMA EV-DO 3G network, which it has been building out in AWS spectrum. Cox is currently running three test markets that leverage Sprint Nextel's CDMA network. When Cox launches its own network, Sprint will be one of its roaming partners. Earlier this month Cox rolled out a teaser advertising campaign for the network, which is expected to be formally launched in March.
Interestingly, Cox noted that its 4G trials included video, which is where some have speculated cable companies could differentiate their wireless offerings from that of more traditional carriers.
Cox is the latest operator to dip its toe into LTE. Verizon Wireless this year plans to launch 25-30 commercial LTE markets, covering 100 million POPs. Additionally, MetroPCS will launch its LTE network this year, while AT&T Mobility will be conducting LTE trials with wider deployments expected in 2011.
For more:
- see this release
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