PhoneTalk

We’ve seen quite a few 4G cell phones from T-Mobile arrive lately, the latest in the group is the Samsung Galaxy S 4G. But what is the deal with T-Mobile’s 4G network? In short, the company’s HSPA+ network is an extension of its HSPA network, thus the HSPA+. The network offers 4G download speeds of up to 21Mbps with average download speeds between 5Mbps and 8Mbps, which is about three times faster than 3G speeds. T-Mobile plans to double the speed of its 4G network this year, which should improve the web surfing experience on a cell phone in terms of speed and latency. The service is currently available in over 100 major metropolitan areas with more markets becoming available this year. Click this link to find out if T-Mobile’s 4G service is available where you use your phone most.

Here are a few more things you might want to know about T-Mobile’s 4G service. If you have more questions, leave a comment and we'll do our best to answer them. 

Can I use any 4G product with the service?

If you want to access T-Mobile’s 4G speeds, you’ll need a HSPA+ capable product. Depending on the product, battery life may be affected. The company offers seven 4G-capabile products to date: 

• Dell Streak 7 
• T-Mobile myTouch 4G 
• T-Mobile G2 
• Dell Inspiron Mini 10 4G 
• webConnect Rocket modem 
• webConnect Rocket 2.0 modem 
• Samsung Galaxy S 4G

There will be more 4G products available this year including the T-Mobile G-Slate with Google from LG and a 4G-capable Sidekick. We should also note that one of the benefits of the company’s 4G network is that you can place calls and surf the web on a 4G cell phone simultaneously. 

What if I have a 4G product and I’m not in a 4G market?

You will still be able to use your product since T-Mobile’s 4G products work with the company’s 3G networks. In fact, you don’t have to worry about finding a 4G network or opting to turn on or off the faster service. The products automatically look for what’s the best available network and log onto it. So if you’re in a place that only has 3G service, then that’s what you’ll get and the same goes for 4G. 

Does 4G service cost extra and is there anything else I should know?

You need a data plan to access 4G service. There are two options for data plans: The Web Plan is $10/month for 200MB with a two-year service agreement or Web – Unlimited plan that offers unlimited Web and email for $30/month.

Topics: Observed Cell phone plans Samsung Smart phones LG Sidekick T-Mobile HTC 4G Tablets Carriers