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NPD Reports Rise in 4G Device Sales for 4Q 2011

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The market research company NPD recently released the findings of a study it made regarding the sales of 4G devices in the market. The study revealed that the sales of 4G devices grew during the fourth quarter of 2011 compared to sales posted during the fourth quarter of 2010.

NPD reported that about 35 percent of smartphones that have been sold during 2011 4Q period were equipped with 4G capabilities. NPD clarified however that 22 percent of the smartphones sold for the period also includes devices that connects with HSPA+, which is not considered a true 4G technology like WiMax or LTE. [Read more…]

T-Mobile sends “Presidential Alert” message to select customers

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After the terrorist attack that happened in September 11, 2001, The United sStates has become more conscious about what would happen in case a scenario similar that day occurs. It has led to a concerted effort to put in place measures to make sure that it never happens again or if it does, it is more prepared to handle the situation. One immediate result of this was the creation of the Department of Homeland Security. And now another step has been taken to further protect the American people – the Personal Localized Alert Network. [Read more…]

Devil’s Advocate: Why T-Mobile Users Will Love Their AT&T Overlords

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In a move that surprised tech pundits, business insiders and the press, AT&T announced that they have purchased all of T-Mobile USA for almost $40 billion.

AT&T Inc. (NYSE: T) and Deutsche Telekom AG (FWB: DTE) today announced that they have entered into a definitive agreement under which AT&T will acquire T-Mobile USA from Deutsche Telekom in a cash-and-stock transaction currently valued at approximately $39 billion. The agreement has been approved by the Boards of Directors of both companies. […]

With this transaction, AT&T commits to a significant expansion of robust 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) deployment to 95 percent of the U.S. population to reach an additional 46.5 million Americans beyond current plans – including rural communities and small towns.  This helps achieve the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) and President Obama’s goals to connect “every part of America to the digital age.” T-Mobile USA does not have a clear path to delivering LTE. (via Mobilize Everything by AT&T).

AT&T will face an uphill battle getting this deal approved by the feds as acquiring T-Mobile will make the company the sole GSM carrier in the US (not to mention make it even harder to resurrect net neutrality).

Although a majority of T-Mobile customers have expressed outrage regarding the deal upon Facebook, there are at least a few reasons why they may end up loving their AT&T overlords (at least in the near future). [Read more…]