AT&T: 4G LTE network in 2012

Just what does AT&T (NYSE: T) plan on doing with all that 700Mhz B-Block spectrum (from the 700Mhz FCC auction) and that valuable swath of 700Mhz C-Block spectrum (from Aloha Partners)? It looks like AT&T is going to use the fresh-off-the-grill spectrum to launch its own 4G LTE mobile broadband network.The additional spectrum firmly plants AT&T at the head of the spectrum-owning game – the B-Block spectrum combined with the C-Block spectrum holdings will give AT&T 100% coverage in the top 200 US markets and 87% coverage over the entire US.

“Results of the auction bidding demonstrate the B Block was the most attractive, most valuable spectrum available, and it was the best investment for AT&T and our customers,” said Ralph de la Vega, president and CEO of AT&T’s wireless division.

AT&T’s LTE network isn’t expected until 2012, so we’re all going to have to do with the No. 1 US carrier’s upgraded 3G network in the meantime. That, and Sprint (NYSE: S)’s WiMAX-based XOHM network.
AT&T