Alltel expands EVDO wireless broadband coverage in Shreveport

Alltel’s Wireless Internet delivers data services at speeds comparable to cable or DSL

SHREVEPORT, La. - Alltel Wireless announced today that it has expanded its broadband Wireless Internet service in the Shreveport area. Wireless Internet uses next generation EVDO (evolution data optimized) technology to provide customers with unlimited wireless access to the Internet at speeds comparable to wired broadband connections such as cable modems or DSL.

A key part of the expansion extends along Interstate 49 and connects the existing coverage in Shreveport to existing coverage in Alexandria. The extension delivers Alltel’s Wireless Internet to Natchitoches for the first time. Alltel also is adding coverage northeast of Shreveport.

"This expansion of our broadband network in Shreveport underscores Alltel’s commitment to meeting the growing data needs of our customers" said Joanna Miller, vice president of business solutions for Alltel Wireless in Louisiana. "Wireless Internet service delivers a convenient wireless broadband experience that will keep both traveling professionals and casual users connected with the fastest and most reliable data applications"

Wireless Internet makes it easy for mobile professionals and consumers to surf the Internet, access e-mail and calendars, and download large, graphic-rich files while on the go. Using the service, customers can access advanced business, news and entertainment applications from their laptops, smartphones or handsets at average speeds of 400 to 700 Kbps with maximum speeds of up to 2.4 Mbps.

Alltel introduced its broadband Wireless Internet service to the Shreveport area in November 2006.

Elsewhere in Louisiana, Alltel’s Wireless Internet service also is available in Monroe, New Orleans, Baton Rouge and surrounding communities.

Nationally, Alltel has one of the largest EVDO footprints of any U.S. carrier. And, in addition to the extensive coverage provided by its own network, Alltel’s roaming agreements give its customers with data-card equipped laptops Wireless Internet access in the nation’s major metropolitan areas, including New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.

Wireless Internet is available for $59.99 a month for unlimited use and does not require a voice plan in order to qualify. In addition to supporting a wide range of productivity enhancing business applications, it enables Alltel’s Axcess TV, with more than 25 channels, and XM radio, with 20 of the best satellite radio music channels. To experience the broadband network, customers will need an EVDO-capable handset, such as The Wafer" by Samsung, or a laptop PC data card available online and at Alltel retail stores in USB, PCMCIA Type II, and Express Card form factors.