As Americans flock to their computers for Cyber Monday, Clearwire Corp. unveils the new 4G internet network, which the company says is the fastest connection for mobile devices.
Smartphone, iPad and laptop users will have access to an Internet connection that is four times faster than 3G, according to Clearwire.
Clearwire is a wireless broadband service provider primarily owned by Sprint Nextel. It is the first corporation to provide a 4G network in the country.
USC studen Karim Alcar talks about some of the benefits of faster mobile internet. (Video by Lauren Furniss, ATVN)
USC Graduate student Chris Sheng discusses one deterrent to joining the 4G network. (Video by Lauren Furniss, ATVN).
According to the company, the 4G experience is similar to WiFi, but is not limited by service area ranges. Cellular download speeds are also much higher, ranging from 3 to 6 mbps with bursts up to 10 mbps.
There are several options for connecting to 4G. Mobile device users can purchase a Clear Spot (R), a “personal mobile hotspot that allows users to easily and securely share unlimited internet access anywhere CLEAR has coverage with up to eight Wi-Fi enabled devices.” Laptop users can also plug a Mobile USB into their computer to access the 4G network or purchase a high-speed, wireless modem or a laptop already equipped with 4G capability.
In Los Angeles and Orange Counties, more than 11 million people could be covered, according to Clearwire.
“It is only fitting that on Cyber Monday, the busiest online shopping day of the year, consumers can now access their favorite retail websites while on the go,” said Allan Lamb, Regional General Manager for Clearwire.