Sprint has followed through with its previously stated plans to launch a dual-mode EVDO Rev. A/WiMax modem today in the Franklin U300 3G/4G modem under the Sprint Mobile Broadband brand. The modem features over-the-air software updates, hands-free activation, internal antenna, a rotating USB connector, and GPS services on the Sprint EVDO network.
It should be noted that the $79.99 monthly cost for the mobile broadband service includes a 5GB cap on the EVDO network and 300MB while roaming, with no caps on WiMax service. The modem is now being sold in the Baltimore area via DirectShip, Telesales and Sprint stores/dealers for $199.99 after new 1 year agreement before an additional $50 mail-in rebate, bringing the total to $149.99.
How are users supposed to discern which network they are on?
The included software wil change status indicators depending on coverage area, though a WiMax lock takes a total of 25 seconds if a recent TheStreet review is to be believed
“for $199.99 after new 1 year agreement before an additional $50 mail-in rebate, bringing the total to $149.99.” That should really say after 2 year agreement NOT 1 year agreement.
Also it’s interesting how you won’t know the 5GB cap won’t apply to 4G unless you read the fine print and they were sly enough to sneak in a “no voice calls permitted” clause in the terms and conditions to discourage VOIP.
Carlos – No, it is a 1 year agreement which is a compromise between the normal EV-DO cards with a 2 year and the WiMax with no contract.
Carlos,
I don’t think the ‘no voice calls permitted’ clause has anything to do with VoiP. VoiP is a data call. I think they are referring to some other aircards that do permit voice calls when you plugged in an earpiece and paid a per minute charge.
Sprint is headed in 100 different directions. They have always pushed new products out before their competitors (a positive), yet they never work the bugs out on their current products (a glaring negative). They need to stick with one thing and develop an identity and market their products toward a mainstream consumer base instead of “techies,” waiting on 4G to become a reality.
I don’t agree with that assessment, they were pushing forward with Wi Max since the begining of ’07. The 1 direction that does seem to be getting lost is ptt, guess that’s 2 since it concerns IDEN and qchat
I dont know what you guys are talking about? Its actually good when a company is moving in diff directions as long as the movement is forward. Also what bugs are you talking about? Dont just make stuff up.Get the facts first. This dual modem is a great idea to give people a chance to taste the future technology that is being developed. Come on people, until you try it out yourself and can speak based on facts then dont talk.
I want to see what’s to it too but am at a loss as to why it cost more than the current data cards.
They have to make it dual mode to still have coverage until the WiMax network is built out. They learned their lesson the first time when they first came to market with a voice network without analog. This is similar. They didn’t have any analog out of the gates and their coverage sucked while they were still building their system. Not until they did a deal with Verizon to use their towers did that improve. This is a smart move by Sprint….for a change.