Sprint Nextel
The first came in the form of the coveted Apple
Today, Sprint provided a strategic update on its plans to build out a 4G LTE network. The carrier will be partnering with LightSquared, which is still pending FCC approval because of potential conflicts with GPS signals, to implement the next-generation network. Clearwire
Sprint did indicate that it remains committed to WiMAX for the time being and will continue selling supported devices through 2012, but the technology's prospects continue to look dimmer and dimmer. Larger rivals AT&T
Starting in mid-2012, Sprint will begin rapid deployments and LTE-capable device sales. The plan has been accelerated from the initial three- to five-year time frame Sprint had initially planned, and the rollout is expected to be completed by the end of 2013. The company is also working closely with Qualcomm
This has been an important week for Sprint. The addition of the iPhone to its lineup and promises of ramping up its 4G LTE network posthaste could be just what the company needs to halt its hemorrhaging of crucial postpaid subscribers. Last quarter, the company lost roughly 101,000 net postpaid subscribers, which was actually greatly improved from the previous year. In contrast, AT&T added roughly 331,000 net postpaid subscribers during the same quarter.
Sprint still has its work cut out for it, but this week's events are two steps in the right direction.
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