Sep 21, 2010 13:44 GMT  ·  By

Today, wireless carrier MetroPCS Communications Inc. has become the first operator in the United States to launch commercial 4G LTE services in the country, complemented by the availability of its first handset to sport the new connectivity option, the Samsung Craft.

According to the wireless carrier, the new service will be initially available for users in Las Vegas, Nev., though it should soon become available to other cities too.

At the same time, the company announced that its users interested in taking advantage of the new services should benefit from talk, text and 4G Web access starting as low as $55 per month including taxes and regulatory fees.

“As the pioneer of the unlimited, no-annual-contract, flat-rate wireless services space, MetroPCS is once again leading the industry as the only no-annual-contract operator to offer 4G LTE services,” the wireless carrier announced.

MetroPCS customers should benefit not only from the first 4G LTE network in Las Vegas, but also from the first commercially available 4G LTE handset in the world.

“The Internet is going mobile, and we are placing the true power of the Internet directly in our customers’ hands, when and where they need it,” said Roger D. Linquist, president, CEO and chairman of MetroPCS.

“By offering affordable, predictable and flexible 4G services on a no-contract basis, MetroPCS delivers immediate benefits to our customers and is positioned to meet their evolving needs well into the future.

“We are delivering a 4G LTE service that is unmatched in value and positions MetroPCS as a full-service broadband wireless provider – a giant step for our business.”

There are two service plans that MetroPCS put in place for its customers, a $55 and a $60 one, providing them with talk, text and a faster 4G Web experience.

Moreover, the wireless carrier says that the new Samsung Craft is available for purchase on its airwaves for $299, after $50 instant rebate, plus tax.

A series of applications are also available for the carrier's customers, including MetroSTUDIO, an upgraded MetroNavigator, and new social networking and instant messaging aggregation application.