Sprint to Create 4G LTE Networks for iPhone 5 Launch
Sprint shifted its position on creating LTE networks for its devices and its customers, according to a recent report by CNet.
“Sprint Nextel gave Dish Network the nod on its plans to acquire the spectrum and build its own 4G LTE network, reversing its position from just a month ago,” said CNet.
The plan-change could be related to the iPhone 5 that is rumored to be a 4G LTE device. Sprint began to carry the iPhone with the release of the iPhone 4S - a handset that the carrier is extremely successful since its launch in October.
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With the hype surrounding a 4G LTE iPhone 5, it could be possible that Sprint favors creating an LTE network to accommodate the upcoming launch of the next Apple smartphone.
AT&T is working on expanding its own 4G LTE network. Sprint's has previously said it does not want to rush into LTE technology. The company currently offers 4G, but it is only available through HSPA+.
This news of Sprint’s plans surfaced in a recent article on CNet that details the carrier’s concern with Dish Network - a company that is intending to build its own 4G network that will deliver mobile video.
Sprint was originally concerned that Dish Network’s plans would interfere with its own, but the two companies agreed they will use spectrums adjacent to each other to accommodate both networks.
AT&T is working expanding its 4G LTE and now Sprint is joining the race. Verizon’s LTE network is more established, so major expansion is unnecessary for the mobile giant.
It seems that all three major carriers of the iPhone are doing their best to have LTE up and running by 2012.
