20/09/2010 By http://www.bizjournals.com ( Source: http://www.bizjournals.com )

Sprint Nextel, Clearwire launch 4G in Orlando

Sprint Nextel Corp. has added a 53rd market for its fast 4G service — Orlando, Fla.

The Overland Park-based wireless carrier now sells its fourth-generation service, in combination with partner Clearwire Corp., in three Florida cities. The other two are Daytona Beach and Jacksonville.

With the addition of Orlando, Sprint sells 4G services in 53 markets — including Kansas City — in 22 states.

Sprint is rolling out the service nationwide with the help of WiMAX technology partner Clearwire, which is based in Kirkland, Wash. Sprint holds a majority stake in Clearwire, but the two companies reportedly have experienced tension in their relationship, particularly as Clearwire seeks more cash to continue building out the 4G network. Sprint CFO Bob Brust said last week that he didn’t know whether or how much Sprint might invest in Clearwire beyond what it already has, which is valued in the billions.

WiMAX, similar to a WiFi network, provides wireless Internet service throughout an entire city and features download speeds several times faster than conventional third-generation wireless networks.

Sprint offers two phones — most recently, the Samsung Epic 4G — capable of using the 4G network. It also sells modems and a portable hotspot, called the Overdrive, that can connect as many as five devices to 4G.

For Sprint, the next-generation service is a key way of differentiating itself from larger competitors Verizon Wireless and AT&T Inc.), which aren’t expected to introduce their 4G services until later this year.

Sprint, the nation’s third-largest wireless carrier, has more than 48 million subscribers. Click here to find a list of Sprint’s 4G markets.