Comcast on Monday marked the launch of its own 4G Internet access in the form of High-Speed 2go [currently a sign-in page]. The service depends on Clearwire's WiMAX network and supplies peak real-world speeds of about 4Mbps downstream anywhere within the coverage range. Like service from Clearwire or Sprint, it's not locked to a particular location and can be had either for mobile use or else as a fixed install at home.

Service is starting today in Portland and should expand to Atlanta, Chicago and Philadelphia before the end of the year. Comcast hasn't outlined plans for stand-alone pricing but is encouraging bundles and will create a Fast Metro Pack for $50 per month that bundles 12Mbps cable Internet with a WiMAX data card and a Wi-Fi router to share the connection. A $70 monthly plan substitutes in a hybrid 3G/4G card that provides EVDO access on Sprint's network when WiMAX isn't available.

The 2go service is the result of a pact with Clearwire and Sprint and is Comcast's first in-depth venture into wireless. Comcast has considered this a sore point as it has had to face competitors like AT&T and Verizon that can offer both Internet access as well as cellphone, landline phone and TV services.