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Verizon Wireless launches 3G multimedia service
January 8, 2005
US's Verizon Wireless delivered the future of wireless from the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas when senior Verizon Wireless executives announced the company is launching VCAST - the US's first 3G wireless multimedia service for consumers - beginning February 1, 2005. VCAST will bring high-quality video, 3-D games and music straight to new 3G phones that will run on the Verizon Wireless broadband EV-DO 3G network, will be delivering the fastest, most widely-available fully-mobile wireless data experience in the US.
"3G is here - we are delivering true 3G services to our customers; this is not a plan for services on the horizon, this is about now," said Denny Strigl, president and chief executive officer of Verizon Wireless.
Starting February 1, Verizon Wireless customers will be able to use new handsets to access VCAST's video on-demand service, viewing current news, weather, sports and entertainment programming. They will also be able to download and play cutting-edge three-dimensional games on powerful new handsets. Customers will also be able to watch music videos and short programs specifically designed for mobile phones and other video applications on their handsets.
When the service is available on February 1, customers can expect video and games from a variety of familiar and popular sources, such as MTV Networks' VH1 and Comedy Central brands. A relationship with News Corp. and 20th Century Fox will bring Verizon Wireless customers hot exclusive programs - "24: Conspiracy," "Sunset Hotel" and "Love & Hate" - specifically designed for mobile phones. A broad offering of content will also be available from NBC, including newscasts made exclusively for mobile phones.
EV-DO 3G Network Expansion
VCAST runs on the Verizon Wireless 3G EV-DO network, which began commercial operation in October 2003 in San Diego and Washington, D.C. The Verizon Wireless 3G EV-DO network initially launched commercially with BroadbandAccess wireless Internet access service for business customers and mobile professionals. BroadbandAccess boasts average user speeds of 300-500 kbps, and enables users to remain productive and connected whether they're at home, a meeting across town or on the road. BroadbandAccess customers can connect via laptop to the Internet, corporate intranet, email and attachments all at high speed.
In addition to 20 previously launched metropolitan areas, the company announced 12 additional markets: Chicago; Houston; Boston; Phoenix; Cincinnati; Orlando; Columbus and Dayton, OH; Providence, RI; Jacksonville, FL; Hartford and New Haven, CT. Major expansions have been made in many existing 3G markets, including New York City; Newark, NJ; Los Angeles; Philadelphia; Atlanta; Miami, Tampa and West Palm Beach, FL; Baltimore, MD; Kansas City, MO; and Milwaukee, WI areas.
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