14 DAY TRIAL // Wireless carrier AT&T announced recently a series of enhancements for its 3G network, meant to either extend its coverage to new areas or to add more capacity to the already deployed network. AT&T subscribers in Grand Junction will have the chance to enjoy better 3G services from the operator, as it has just added wireless spectrum in the 850 MHz band in the area, while people in downtown Blacksburg and on the campus of Virginia Tech can now benefit from 3G coverage from the company.
The new enhancements AT&T has brought to the network are meant to enable it to meet the growing demand for 3G mobile broadband services, as well as to improve its in-building coverage when it comes to the metropolitan areas. According to the carrier, it plans on continuing to bring even more improvements to the network, and we already reported that it had launched HSPA 7.2 in six major cities in the country, with plans to upgrade around 90 percent of its footprint to provide the faster speeds.
“This substantial network upgrade is part of our commitment to deliver the nation’s fastest 3G connectivity along with the highest possible levels of service quality and reliability,” said Jace Barbin, vice president and general manager for AT&T’s wireless unit in the Rocky Mountain Region. “We know many customers depend on wireless service as a primary communications connection to work, family and friends, and we’re enhancing our network to help customers do more with and get more from their wireless connections.”
According to the carrier, the new network extension in the Blacksburg area complements the existing 3G footprint in Richmond, and it follows the recent expansions in Charlottesville and Hampton Roads. At the same time, the Grand Junction 3G network enhancements are meant to increase the network capacity in the area, as the 850 MHz spectrum delivers much better in-doors coverage. Although the results will vary depending on actual location, improvements in service quality should be experienced by all users.