AT&T Strengthens 3G in New York and New Jersey

AT&T has announced a strengthening of its 3G mobile broadband wireless network where it has deployed spectrum in the 850 MHz band across large portions of metro New York City, Long Island and New Jersey.

The 850 MHz spectrum was deployed for 3G use at more than 1,600 cell sites in the New York metro area. It is considered a high-quality spectrum, which generally results in better in-building wireless coverage.

“Where we deployed the additional 850 MHz spectrum, we saw an immediate increase in wireless data activity across the AT&T 3G network in those areas,” said Tom DeVito, VP and GM for AT&T in New York and New Jersey.

Recently, AT&T announced plans to further upgrade its 3G network nationwide with HSPA 7.2 technology to deliver faster mobile broadband speeds. The upgrades are planned to begin in the fourth quarter, with completion expected in 2011. Additionally, AT&T is planning to add nearly 1,900 cell sites nationwide this year and new backhaul connections across the country.