Clearwire (CLWR), founded in October of 2003, released the specifics of their new pre-paid 4G network this Monday. Clearwire is the only wireless network currently offering 4G's of wireless speed to its subscribers. The transition to 4G coverage by Clearwire, and Sprint, means speeds of up to 5 times that of the slower 3G network that other providers are using, and a real challenge to AT&T's highly coveted iPhone technology.
Clearwire, and Sprint, have both been working arduously to develop nationwide wireless broadband networks, but have struggled since Sprint's failed merger with Nextel, and a miserable intial public offering made by Clearwire on March 8th, 2007. Neither of the two companies have had the available resources to expand to 4G coverage, but by combining forces, the two conglomerates have been able to edge out other networks.
Other wireless providers such as AT&T (T, Fortune 500) and Verizon Wireless (VZ, Fortune 500), have all but been cut short by the joint efforts being made by Sprint (S, Fortune 500), and the Clearwire Corp. Verizon is scheduled to roll out its 4G network later this year, according to a CNN Money report written by staff writer David Goldman, and AT&T's 4G unveiling is tentatively scheduled for 2011.
One thing's for sure though; The Rover has landed! The new 4G network released by Clearwire is available to be purchased at $5 per day, $20 per week, and even $50 per month. These rates will grant the 4G wireless broadband users unlimited access and do not require the users to have a credit card. Pay-as-you-go 4G subscribers will also be required to purchase either the Rover Puck or Rover Stick modem.
With speeds of 3 to 6 mbps and bursts of up to 10 mbps, the Rover Puck can easily fit inside a backpack or purse and is available in all 49 Clearwire markets for a mere $149.99. The Rover Puck can connect as many as eight devices, whether at home, or on the run. The more affordable Rover Stick, can connect any laptop, notebook, or desktop to the Rover 4g network, and is compatible with Windows XP, Windows 7, Vista, and even the Mac OS X operating systems, according to Chloe Albanesius of PC Magazine. The Rover Stick is currently available for as little as $99.99 and can be purchased at any Clearwire or Best Buy location.