May 20th 2008, 11:42 AM   by Eric M. Zeman

Today AT&T announced that users of its LaptopConnect wireless broadband services will also have free Wi-Fi access at any location where AT&T provides the Wi-Fi. LaptopConnect users need to download the latest manager software, which will then alert users when free Wi-Fi is available. In order to receive the free Wi-Fi, LaptopConnect subscribers will need to have the $60 per month plan.

more at AT&T »

20th May 2008, 9:40 AM   by Eric M. Zeman

The Rural Cellular Association is planning to file a petition with the FCC as early as today questioning the exclusive handset deals that the major carriers have with handset manufacturers. The rural carriers believe that the deals are anti-competitive, anti-consumer, and prevent the rural carriers from offering the best devices available to their customers. The Rural Cellular Association wants the practice investigated. The Wall Street Journal says it is unlikely that the FCC will pursue the investigation too far.

more at The Wall Street Journal » / MoCo News »

May 19th 2008, 9:28 PM   by Eric M. Zeman

Chinese telecommunications equipment manufacturer Huawei recently announced its intent to sell a portion of its mobile handset business. The South China Morning Post is reporting that network operators AT&T and Vodafone are two of the companies seeking to buy into Huawei. For a network operator to purchase a handset manufacturer would be a rare move. Private equity company Blackstone, among others, is also interested. Huawei has not set a date for any sale, and AT&T and Vodafone have not officially commented on the matter.

more at SCMP » / CNET »

May 19th 2008, 5:24 PM   by Eric M. Zeman   updated Today, 6:04 PM

Sprint is updating its Terms Of Service starting in mid-July and will be capping mobile broadband data usage at 5GB. Previously, Sprint offered truly unlimited mobile broadband. Once the new Terms Of Service go into effect, users who go over the 5GB cap, or a 300MB roaming cap, will be charged extra fees. This will apply to both network cards as well as tethering mobile phones to laptops. AT&T Mobility and Verizon Wireless currently offer 5GB data plans, also.

more at Sprint » / Engadget »