Sprint introduced the first mobile devices designed to run on its pending 4G LTE network. The telecompetitor announced the upcoming launch of the Galaxy Nexus Android 4.0 “Ice Cream Sandwich”equipped smartphone, the “eco-friendly” LG Viper smartphone, and its mobile Sierra Wireless Tri-Network (3G, 4G WiMAX and 4GLTE) Hotspot at this week’s Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas.
“The first three products that will run on the Sprint 4G LTE network exemplify the cutting-edge technology our customers can expect from Sprint as we progress with our 4G LTE rollout,” said Steve Elfman, president of Network, Wholesale and Product Development for Sprint.
“Galaxy Nexus packs industry-leading features and the best of Google into a beautiful design while LG Viper 4G LTE continues Sprint’s commitment to green devices that don’t sacrifice speed or technology. These products combine with our unlimited data pricing plans to give Sprint customers a powerful wireless experience.”
The new 4G LTE mobile devices are integral parts of Sprint’s overarching Network Vision, a strategic plan “to consolidate multiple network technologies into one seamless solution.” The technological underpinnings of the strategic plan include “ultra-fast data speeds, improved 3G voice and data quality, and stronger in-building signal penetration providing a more valuable wireless experience and enhancing the value of current unlimited plans.”
Atlanta, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio are to be the first Sprint markets to gain access to the company’s 4G LTE and improved 3G network coverage, which is expected in 1H 2012.
Sprint has 15 4G LTE devices scheduled for launch in 2012, including mobile handsets, tablets and data cards. Sprint will continue to sell and support its 4G devices, including HTC EVO Design 4G, Samsung Epic 4G Touch and the Nexus S 4G.
