EDGE Network Launched in the USA

The USA based, AT&T Wireless has launched its EDGE upgrade network. EDGE offers average data speeds between 100-130 kbps -- nearly twice as fast as other national mobile wireless networks and up to three times faster than traditional wired dial-up services.

"EDGE gives customers a much-enhanced wireless experience, providing data speeds dramatically faster than 'so-called' 3G services offered by other wireless companies," said John Zeglis, Chairman and CEO of AT&T Wireless. "It boosts the efficiency of a business' work force by giving mobile employees fast and easy access to the same business applications they have in their office. EDGE speeds will make it simpler for people to be as productive when they are on the go as they are in their home or office."

EDGE service is now available nationally to customers located in areas served by the AT&T Wireless GSM/GPRS Next Generation network, covering approximately 215 million people, some 6,500 cities and towns and areas along more than 30,000 miles of major highways. The company is offering EDGE in Puerto Rico and Bermuda, and plans to deploy EDGE throughout its properties in the Caribbean in the near future. In addition, Rogers AT&T Wireless has added EDGE capability in the Greater Vancouver area and will deploy EDGE throughout its Canada-wide network beginning next year. The combined networks provide AT&T Wireless customers across North America with access to high-speed, multi-functional services when they travel.

Using the same spectrum as its GSM/GPRS network, EDGE is a cost-effective software upgrade that further compresses how data is transmitted. At less than US$2 per POP, the company said that the upgrade was highly cost effective.

"Along with significant benefits for our customers, GSM's evolution path enables us to turn the hype surrounding 3G into a reality," said Rod Nelson, chief technology officer for AT&T Wireless. "The EDGE experience doesn't disappoint -- it truly lives up to the potential surrounding 3G services."

Additionally, international carriers outside North America are also deploying EDGE. According to the Global Mobile Suppliers Association, an industry trade group, support for EDGE continues to grow around the world, with more than 60 wireless carriers committed to network deployments including Telia Sonera in Finland, Telecom Italia Mobile in Italy and CSL in Hong Kong."

Posted to the site on 20th November 2003