Verizon 3G bets on Vegas

US mobile telco Verizon Wireless is switching on its 3G network in Las Vegas. It will offer subscribers download speeds of up to 500 kilobits per second for a flat monthly subscription of $79.99.

Using an Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO) network, subscribers can have full access to corporate networks via VZAccess Manager. Verizon claims the service is up to ten times faster than using "a competitor's GPRS network". It is targeted at businesses of all sizes.

Verizon Wireless already offers BroadbandAccess in San Diego and Washington. The firm is spending $1bn on the rollout over the next two years. Tami Erwin, regional president for Verizon Wireless, said: "Today's successful professional is a mobile professional, and BroadbandAccess provides the means for Las Vegas professionals to stay connected anywhere in the citywith a true mobile office experience."

Verizon says the service is backwards compatible, unlike CDMA networks. Customers moving out of range of the EV-DO network will switch back to Verizon's NationalAccess network based on 1xRTT technology. ®

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