Verizon Wireless has upped the ante on the race for wireless broadband, today launching its high-speed data service for consumers called VCAST. Billed by the company as "the nation's first 3G wireless broadband multimedia service for consumers," VCAST will offer on-demand content from a variety of sources, as well as 3D games to phones compatible with the next-generation network.

As previously reported, VCAST promises speeds of 300kbit to 500kbit per second, roughly the same as a low-grade DSL connection. However, initial trials in Southern California showed speeds that topped out around 150kbit per second.

"What wireless broadband means for consumers is a whole new wireless experience," said Denny Strigl, Verizon Wireless president and CEO. "Unlike other wireless video and multimedia services available today, our V CAST service is fast, clear and cutting edge."

The VCAST service costs $15 per month, however Verizon said that it would for a limited time waive the service fee for two months for new customers. The extra fee does not include the normal download fees for games, premium content and other "Get it Now" applications.

Seperately, Verizon also announced the first premium content provider for VCAST, Warner Music Group. WMG will make available its catalog of music videos to subscribers and says it will add new content weekly.

"We're thrilled to be the first music company to participate in Verizon Wireless' V CAST multimedia service and the first music company to offer consumers our artists' music videos via digital download in the U.S.," said Michael Nash, senior vice president at Warner Music Group.

Videos will be available on a per-download basis at $3.99 per video.