Sprint is trotting out it’s 4G network, saying sometime this summer its new wireless technology will be available.
Sprint Nextel Corp. (S) officially unveiled the first U.S. phone able to tap into super-high speeds on Tuesday as the carrier hopes to capitalize on its lead in next-generation wireless technology. The phone, called the Evo, is made by HTC Corp. (2498.TW). Sprint did not provide pricing information on the device or service plans, and the company maintained its timeframe of a summer launch. The Overland Park, Kan., carrier needs the Evo to succeed, which would provide a spark to its early fourth-generation, or 4G, ambitions. Sprint sees 4G as a way of winning back the most lucrative customers willing to sign a long-term contract. The carrier has lost nearly 9 million customers over the past three years. Sprint is racing to get people on its network as it hopes to exploit its narrowing lead over the other carriers in 4G. Earlier Tuesday, Sprint and its network partner, Clearwire Corp. (CLWR), expanded the list of cities to get 4G technology. – From WSJ