Cingular introduces 3G network

Cingular Wireless announced the availability of its 3G network, called BroadbandConnect. It is the first service available world-wide to use the HSDPA technology, which increases UMTS's download speeds to an average of 400-700 Kbps. BroadbandConnect will be initially accessible only for laptop users, who can purchase either a Sierra Wireless AC860 or Novatel U730 laptop modem card. Both of these cards can be acquired for the price of $99.99 after a rebate, when customers sign up for a qualifying voice plan and introductory two-year $59.99 unlimited data connect one. Various monthly data plans, starting at $19.99 for 5 MB, are also available. Cingular plans to release HSDPA handsets later on. BroadbandConnect is currently available in 16 U.S. markets – Austin, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Las Vegas, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, Seattle, Tacoma and Washington D.C – but the company states that BroadbandConnec will be expanded to cover 100 markets in the year 2006.

Source: Cingular Wireless