T-Mobile USA launched its first 3G USB modem, giving its customers mobile broadband access for their laptops. In addition, the company announced plans to double its 3G HSDPA network by the end of 2009.
The Huawei-made device, which received FCC approval in early January, has up to 8GB of installable memory. The device operates on four different bands: 850, 1700, 1900 and 2100 MHz bands, though T-Mobile customers will get the most use out of the 1700 MHz UMTS frequency.
T-Mobile also said it plans on expanding its 3G network to cover 200 million pops by the end of the year, adding an additional 100 cities to its coverage. When FierceWireless talked to T-Mobile USA vice president of engineering and operations Neville Ray back in January, he said that the company would be expanding its 3G network so it would be in more than 300 cities by the end of 2009. "That takes us to competitive parity in most areas of the country with Verizon and AT&T," Ray said. He also said that the company would be launching more G-series phones this year.
T-Mobile said the modem is available online and in select retail stores. The USB modem is selling for $49.99 with a 2-year contract after a rebate or $99.99 with 1-year contract. It is also selling for $249.99 with no contract.
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