FCC sets date for 700 MHz auction; Google interested
The Federal Communications Commission has set January 16, 2008 as the date for the long-awaited 700 MHz auction. There is tremendous interest in acquiring this spectrum band because it travels longer distances than higher bands and penetrates buildings better. Google has expressed interest in bidding for this spectrum. According to a report in the Wall Street Journal, Google is developing a phone that can access the spectrum and is interested in launching its own wireless network.
T-Mobile to offer Pharos GPS Phones
The Pharos GPS Phone 600 and 600e will be available at T-Mobile outlets. Both models run Windows Mobile 5, have 2 megapixel cameras, and have Wi-Fi and Bluetooth receivers. The 600 includes an integrated GPS antenna and related navigation software, and will sell for $500 with a two-year voice and data contract. The 600e does not include GPS software and will sell for $400 with the same two-year plan.
AT&T to expand Wi-Fi coverage in Europe
AT&T has announced a recent deal with European Wi-Fi provider The Cloud that will add over 9,000 Wi-Fi hotspots to various locations, which will mostly cover the United Kingdom, but will also be added in Germany and Scandinavia. AT&T now provides over 28,000 hotspots in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa.
Citywide Wi-Fi network plans stalling
In an article on mobile-tech-today.com, it was reported that plans to blanket cities with Wi-Fi access are being cancelled or delayed. A high-profile project in San Francisco to open a city-wide Wi-Fi network recently went into limbo, while projects in Milwaukee and Philadelphia were delayed. Reasons for the slowdown include high installation expense and network provider concern about profits, as well as potential security issues.
American Airlines to offer in-flight Wi-Fi
American Airlines has announced a deal with AirCell that will provide in-flight Wi-Fi service to passengers. The announced service is scheduled to be implemented sometime next year, with initial coverage only in transcontinental flights. Full domestic flight coverage is planned.
Verizon continues to lead in customer loyalty
For the 11th consecutive quarter, Verizon Wireless has reported the lowest turnover rate among wireless carriers nationwide in the second quarter of 2007.
T-Mobile posts strong second quarter
While still the number four carrier in the country, T-Mobile posted an addition of 857,000 new customers, and ended the second quarter with almost 27 million subscribers. T-Mobile outdistanced the country's number three carrier Sprint in the same period, who posted a total of 400,000 new subscribers.
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