Verizon Wireless Rolls Out First 3G Network In United States

The new network, initially available in the East and West Coast markets, uses Qualcomm's CDMA2000 1X technology and touts always-on high-speed Internet connectivity. Eventually the network will support full Internet browsing, streaming video, email, and more advanced applications including games. Users should expect average data speeds between 40-60 kbps -- comparable to a PC using using dial-up Internet service at home. The network is available now to about 20% of its customer base, mostly on the East and West Coasts. Sprint will launch its own service this summer, also based on the Qualcomm technology. AT&T Wireless and Cingular are in a joint venture to roll out a network based on an older technology, GSM (Global Systems for Mobile Communications) this year, which will roll out in Q1 2003.