AT&T says its first 4G devices will be available in stores and online on Aug. 21.
The nation’s second-largest wireless operator is introducing the USBConnect Momentum 4G – a USB device – and the Mobile Hotspot Elevate 4G, which is a mobile hotspot device.
AT&T also confirmed data pricing for data-only mobile broadband devices on its LTE network. Customers can obtain 5 gigabytes of data for $50 per month, and any extra data consumed will cost $10 per gigabyte.
AT&T is expected to soon roll out 4G mobile service in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Houston and San Antonio, representing the first markets where its high-speed LTE network will be activated. The telecommunications giant plans to offer 4G LTE in at least 15 markets by the end of the year, covering 70 million Americans.
Dallas-based AT&T, which is behind its larger rival Verizon Wireless in the 4G race, hasn’t yet introduced new handsets for its LTE network. A company executive last week said there might be one LTE smartphone available by the end of the year.
The USBConnect Momentum 4G is a USB device for laptops that offers plug-and-play installation, an expandable memory slot and global compatibility. Customers also can receive unlimited usage over AT&T’s Wi-Fi network with a qualifying data plan. The Mobile Hotspot Elevate 4G is a device that connects up to five Wi-Fi-enabled devices, such as a laptop, tablet computer and music player, to the Internet.
AT&T also said its USBConnect Adrenaline device is LTE-upgradeable, containing a chipset that can be enabled with a software update.
