Ardmore residents who are using a cell phone or another mobile device with the AT&T network to access the Internet or send and receive e-mails will find their service has just gotten better.
AT&T officials were in Ardmore Wednesday to announce the company has launched its third-generation (3G) mobile broadband network in town. They said 3G offers several advantages, including accelerated data speeds and simultaneous voice and data capability. The 3G network will benefit laptop computer users, as well.
“It really all about speed,” said Steve Gray, vice president and general manager, AT&T Oklahoma and Arkansas. “Demand for wireless bandwidth is growing, whether it’s for sharing video and photos with friends, watching a movie, checking for the latest scores or listening to music on a phone, Netbook or other mobile devices on the go.”
Bryan Gonterman, president of AT&T Oklahoma, said a growing number of consumers are demanding the convenience of high-speed wireless connections for e-mail, to surf the Internet and conduct business wherever they are.
He said demand is increasing as a growing number of Oklahoma households ditch their land-line telephones.
“It gives individuals the opportunity to stay connected in any way they choose at all times,” said Becky Summers, owner of Airwaves Plus. “Having 3G capability lets me access the world from my pocket or purse.”
Wes Stucky, president and CEO of the Ardmore Chamber of Commerce, said 3G service is critical so Ardmore can be technologically competitive with other communities when it comes to attracting new businesses.
AT&T customers must use a 3G-compatible device to take advantage of the new network, and anyone who has made an upgrade in the last six months or so should notice a difference in their service.
Users who have older-model cell phones will still be able to access the AT&T network, but won’t be able to get the faster 3G service.
Lora Lee Laird, director of sales, AT&T Oklahoma said customers with 3G-compatible devices will be able to access the new mobile broadband network at no additional expense.
AT&T invested approximately $1 million to upgrade eight cell sites in Ardmore with 3G technology. The company announced 3G service also launched in Ada on Wednesday.
Steve Biehn, 221-6546
