Sprint plans its first modem for 3G EV-DO and 4G WiMAX

Sprint-Nextel's new dual-mode modem will work on both Sprint's 3G EVDO network and Clearwire's 4G WiMAX -- apparently including a WiMAX network set for commercial launch on January 6 of 2009 in Portland, OR.

Sprint Nextel today rolled out plans for a dual-mode modem designed to operate on both its 3G EVDO network and the 4G WiMAX network now being built by its business partner Clearwire.

Intel and Clearwire announced this week that they will hold a press conference in Portland, OR on January 6, 2009 to introduce that city's new "Clear" WiMAX network.

Some other vendors are now producing devices that will on on both 3G wireless networks and 4G WiMAX. For example, the Acer Aspire One netbook -- now on sale at Radio Shack for a substantially reduced price through December 27 -- supports both AT&T's 3G Data Connect network and 4G WiMAX.

Sprint Nextel's upcoming modem, though, will be the first to allow WiMAX users traveling outside of WiMAX coverage areas to access Sprint's 3G EV-DO network.

Last May, Sprint and Clearwire announced plans to merge their WiMAX holdings in a deal partly funded by Intel, Google, and cable networks Comcast, Bright House, and Time Warner.

Sprint Nextel launched a commercial WiMAX network earlier this year, but only for parts of Baltimore, Md. Sprint has conducted WiMAX beta tests in Baltimore; Washington, DC; and Chicago, Ill.

Prior to FCC approval of the merger this fall, Clearwire told BetaNews it hoped to introduce commercial WiMAX services in several US cities during 2009, including Portland, OR; Las Vegas, NV; Grand Rapids, MI; and Atlanta, GA.