Sprint Nextel and Clearwire plan to jointly construct one of the first nationwide mobile broadband networks using WiMAX technology, and promote the global development of WiMAX-based services.
The arrangement, set out in a letter of intent, is expected to enable broader and more efficient deployment of a mobile WiMAX broadband network than either company could accomplish on its own.
The WiMAX network is being designed to deliver mobile broadband services in urban, suburban and rural markets and enable significantly greater depth and breadth of services. Sprint Nextel and Clearwire will build their respective portions of the nationwide network to enable roaming between the respective territories. The companies will also work jointly on product and service evolution, shared infrastructure, branding, marketing and distribution. Additionally, the companies will exchange selected 2.5GHz spectrum to optimize build-out, development and operation of the network.
The arrangement is subject to the execution of definitive agreements, which are expected to be finalized within the next 60 days. It is also subject to review by the Department of Justice and approval of spectrum license assignments and transfers by the FCC.
A high-speed WiMAX network could be used to augment station ENG and SNG resources.
For more information, visit www.sprint.com and www.clearwire.com.
