MetroPCS to Launch LTE in Late 2010

According to statements made during an interview, MetroPCS COO Tom Keys has confirmed that MetroPCS would be moving forward with plans to roll out an LTE network in late 2010.

Being that the low-cost carrier has yet to roll out EVDO data access in many markets until the introduction of the BlackBerry Curve later this quarter, the move mirrors its intentions to roll out high speed EVDO Rev. A service in 2007 for additional voice capacity, as the carrier sought to reduce voice capacity costs.

Since Verizon Wireless and AT&T have also planned to launch LTE networks, the move is also one of convenience as MetroPCS would be able to seamlessly roam on the other networks provided the handsets and related euipment were band compatible. which is not surprising as smaller regional carriers have committed to the standard in order to gain leverage with handset manufacturers and national carriers concerning roaming and equipment.