By Wailin Wong |
Mobile streaming video fanatics, take note: The first phone in the U.S.
to run on a fourth-generation network launches today.
Sprint, the only carrier in the U.S. with its 4G network up and running
for consumers, is expected to launch the Evo 4G on today. The phone is
manufactured by Taiwanese company HTC and uses Google’s Android
operating system.
Sprint launched its 4G network in Chicago in November and the city is
one of roughly 30 markets with the technology, which is designed to
deliver residential broadband-like speeds even when consumers are on the
go. The 4G network is also meant to be stronger and more reliable than
3G, allowing for data-intensive activities such as streaming
high-definition video and online gaming with sophisticated graphics.
So far, the only 4G-enabled devices available to consumers have been modems, laptops and laptop cards. Mobile phones are now expected to join the roster as Sprint continues to roll out its 4G network to more cities and other carriers prepare their own 4G launches. And further down the line, other gadgets such as tablet PCs and digital cameras could be embedded with 4G capability.
The Evo has a 4.3-inch touchscreen display and two cameras, a 1.3-megapixel camera on the front for webcam videoconferencing and an 8-megapixel camera on the back with the ability to shoot HD video.
The phone, which can run on both 3G and 4G networks, costs $199.99 after rebate. The device requires an additional $10 per month for 4G data on top of an unlimited data plan, which starts at $69.99 a month. The Evo can also turn into a mobile hotspot for up to eight devices with Wi-Fi capability; that service costs an extra $29.99 a month.
On Thursday, PCMag released a study of mobile broadband networks nationwide that revealed Sprint to offer the fastest network in Chicago. Nationally, AT&T topped the magazine’s index. The survey focused on speed and did not test for call quality, dropped calls and coverage.
Sprint stores will be open early on Friday for the Evo’s launch.
Oooooooooo, I want one.
I’m soooooooooo getting one of these.
If the 4G connection is as problematic with these as they are for the modem cards, this product will have a short life.
It’s a pretty lame culture that measures success by how much gaming it can do on its phones.
Every single thing that occurs online incurs a carbon footprint. Including my writing this dumb comment.
I’ve had the phone for almost 2 weeks now (5000 were given out at a Developer conference 2 weeks ago), and it’s a fantastic phone! It’s the winning flagship phone that Sprint has lacked for a long time now.
I don’t need the phone but I want one… 4G phone here I come lol
Compelling, but I’ll keep my Pre for now. But it looks awesome.
Why do people still buy iPhones???
Great now the 3G phones will be cheap and the cell networks will be flooded with new users. That will mean more microwave repeaters will be needed. At last a real stimulus package for commercial property owners.
BTW Sprint has terrible coverage on the Metra North line.
I had to get rid of my iPhone. I loved it, but I needed unlimited service. With all the upgrades and fees for text messages, I was up to $165 a month. I used the phone in business. I wanted a phone, not a partnership with AT&T.
I have to express, that i could not concur with you in 100%, but that it is just my opinion, which could possibly be wrong.
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