Alltel increases converage using Sprint and Cingular

[Mod]

Alltel increased its coverage through a pair of nationwide reciprocal roaming agreements with larger rivals Sprint Nextel and Cingular. Alltel’s 10-year deal with Sprint Nextel begins July 1 and covers CDMA voice services along with 1x and EV-DO data services, the company said. The deal is significant as it provides Alltel with access to Sprint Nextel’s extensive EV-DO footprint as well as the carrier’s voice coverage in larger markets. Analysts noted the deal provides Alltel with another option for its roaming needs, which are currently served by an extensive voice and data agreement with Verizon Wireless that is set to expire in 2011.

Alltel also renewed its roaming agreement with Cingular for another six years, through 2012. The company noted that the agreement covers GSM voice and data services and allows for expansion of GSM technology into heritage Alltel markets that are currently served with CDMA technology.

Alltel inherited a significant GSM footprint following its acquisition of Western Wireless last year. Alltel also provides GSM roaming services to T-Mobile.

_________________
Join the forum & win a free iMate Jaq!