WiMax Driver for Mac to Come Next Month

Mac users in the US should get ready to benefit from the upcoming Clearwire 4G network in the country, as the company is reportedly gearing up to release a set of drivers that will allow Mac laptops to access its services. The WiMax client software should land on August 17, while at the beginning of the month the company will start delivering its dual-mode USB modem for WiMax and Sprint Nextel’s 3G network.

According to Mike Sievert, chief commercial officer, cited by macworld, the driver will land on August 17, and it will be offered for consumers for free. While until now Mac users haven't been able to use the Clear service directly, although connectivity via Wi-Fi through the $140 Clear Spot standalone modem launched in April was available, things will change starting next month. Until now, only Windows users were able to enjoy drivers from the company, while Linux ones will see this kind of software only later.

The Clear 4G+ modem that will become available as soon as August 1 will enable users to connect both to the WiMax service where it is available, as well as to Sprint Nextel’s 3G EV-DO (Evolution-Data Optimized) network. The device comes with a price tag of $80, while users will have to sign a service plan that includes both WiMax and Sprint 3G services and is reportedly priced at $80 per month with a two-year contract. It seems that Mac users will be able to benefit from the dual-mode service starting with the fourth quarter of the ongoing year.

As for Clearwire's network, it has been launched commercially in Baltimore, and next month it is expected to reach Las Vegas, Atlanta and Portland. In Las Vegas, the network should provide 4G connectivity to 1.7 million potential customers on an area of 638 square miles. Other cities will follow before the end of the year as well, including Chicago, Dallas, Hawaii, Philadelphia and Seattle. Previously, the company announced that it planned to reach 80 markets with its WiMax service, while offering coverage to more than 120 million before the end of 2010.