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Oh, Gee—Is 4G Right For Me?

Posted: 3/11/2011

A new generation of smartphones has been developed to take advantage of the faster speeds offered by the 4G network.

(NAPSI) - If you are wondering what all the fuss over 4G networks and devices is all about, there’s good news.

For starters, you’re not alone—and as tech topics go, it’s not really that confusing once you become familiar with a few basic ideas. Here is a brief overview:

The Network

The “G” in this case stands for generation-as in generation of wireless technology. Developing the first generation resulted in making mobile phones widely available. The second generation, or 2G, made the switch to a digital format possible and text messaging on a wide scale feasible. The next generation—3G technology—made it possible for mobile devices to access enhanced information services such as websites and made smartphones more widely available.

For consumers, 4G mobile will be less about making phone calls-although it may help reception-and more about Internet access on portable computers and smartphones.

Sprint is currently a 4G network provider reaching 120 million potential users across the U.S. Some consumers will be able to use 4G technology for a home broadband connection without running any cable into their house. It can also be used for accessing the Internet on the go without having to be linked to a wireless hotspot.

In general, the connection speeds offered on a 4G network mean that with a compatible mobile device, consumers will be able to watch TV, scan the Internet or stream movies at speeds that they usually associate with a hardwired or cable connection.

Compatible Devices

Sprint has introduced 18 4G devices, 12 of which are commercially available today.

One device that is already getting lots of attention is the HTC EVO 4G. Recently, Good Housekeeping honored it with a Very Innovative Products—or VIP—Award. Popular Mechanics gave it its Breakthrough Award. And TheStreet.com rated the HTC EVO 4G the No. 1 Android phone.

It features what’s been described as the best Android operating system to date, touch-screen technology, live-streaming video and dual cameras for video chat, plus a huge 4.3-inch screen.

The latest version HTC EVO Shift 4G also offers a full QWERTY keyboard, social networking integration and HD video recording in 720p format.

Other devices with 4G capability include the Novatel Wireless ultracompact MiFi 3G/4G Mobile Hotspot. The device lets you connect up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices—including tablets, eReaders, laptops or gaming consoles—to the Sprint 4G or 3G network. It delivers a wireless experience with no cables or software installation required.

The Mobile Hotspot has a battery life of up to four hours of usage and 60 hours of standby time. It can support the connectivity needs of a household at home or help a frequent traveler or even a small-business team connect to the Internet while on the road.

There’s an external display with status indicators for battery, signal strength and number of connected devices, and shared storage capability through a MicroSD slot for up to a 32GB memory card. It supports Windows, Macintosh and Linux operating systems.

To learn more, visit www.sprint.com/4G or call (800) Sprint1.

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