MetroPCS considering LightSquared for 4G services
updated 03:35 pm EST, Thu March 3, 2011
Currently investigating all options for bandwidth
MetroPCS is reportedly considering all options for being able to deliver 4G services, including the LightSquared satellite back-end service for the delivery of high-speed mobile communications. The company is busy searching for all possible avenues that can help it expand its spectrum as it continues is US expansion plans, particularly with regard to the delivery of 4G network access. “We’re looking at everything out there” on spectrum, CFO J. Braxton Carter said during a conference call at the Morgan Stanley Technology, Media and Telecom Conference in San Francisco.
Based in Dallas, MetroPCS already has a $1.6 billion dollar credit arrangement to expand its network coverage, but is now looking to extend that by another $1.6 billion. The move is design to help accelerate its acquisition of additional mobile broadband spectrum so that it can quickly increase its US footprint.
The recent approval of LightSquared’s satellite-based mobile broadband service by the FCC has given MetroPCS an additional option to consider. LightSquared currently does not have plans to deliver its satellite-based back-end service directly to customers, but rather, is looking to partner with other mobile broadband providers to gain a foothold in lucrative 4G service delivery market.
