Sprint announced on Monday that it is now the first domestic carrier to offer international WiMAX roaming access to 4G networks. As of today, customers who are traveling to Taiwan and Jamaica can connect to next-gen networks through two partner carriers: Digicel and Global Mobile.
For $14.99 per day, subscribers who own a 4G device that is loaded with Sprint SmartView Connection Manager can surf the Web at top speeds in either country. Unlike other international roaming plans that tack on usage charges, Sprint's deal offers completely unlimited data.
“Sprint has partnered with Digicel and Global Mobile to further enhance the global 4G ecosystem with services that empower travelers on the go,” Todd Rowley, Vice President of Sprint 4G, noted in a statement.
“Over the years, we’ve built a robust ecosystem of partners that drives away any other 4G ecosystem available today, and as the first U.S. wireless carrier to launch international 4G roaming we’ve clearly demonstrated our leadership," he added.
It is important to note that the agreement with Digicel and Global Mobile is meant for data, not voice, according to Electronista. Customers can make VoIP calls over their laptops or tablets, but won't be using their EVO, Epic 4G or Shift 4G phones to make any standard calls.
Sprint's currently offers its 4G service in 24 states and the District of Columbia. America's third largest carrier anticipates developing partnership agreements with other countries in the near future, however the company offered no timetable.
In related news, Sprint recently announced that it will be providing its latest 4G service to classrooms around the country that are associated with the Teach for America program.
As part of the initiative, a number of teachers affiliated with the non-profit organization will receive up to a year of unlimited free access to the Sprint 4G network, as well as a Dell Inspiron 11z Notebook.
Want to learn more about 4G wireless technologies? Then be sure to attend the 4GWE Conference, collocated with TMC’s ITEXPO East, taking place Feb 2-4, 2011, in Miami. The 4GWE Conference provides unmatched networking opportunities and a robust conference program representing the wireless ecosystem. The conference not only brings together the best and brightest in the wireless industry, it actually spans the communications and technology industry. To register, click here.
Beecher Tuttle is a MobilityTechzone contributor. He has extensive experience writing and editing for print publications and online news websites. He has specialized in a variety of industries, including health care technology, politics and education. To read more of his articles, please visit his columnist page.
Edited by Jamie Epstein
QUICK LINKS 
