Reports surfaced recently that suggested AT&T was capping the upload speeds of the Atrix 4G, the Inspire 4G and other HSUPA devices. Reports from consumers as well a study by PC Magazine showed these 4G devices uploaded files at a maximum of 300 kbps. Rather than sit back and let AT&T slow the speed of his Android handset, customer Keith Geissler filed a complaint with the Better Business Bureau. After receiving his complaint, an AT&T representative responded with the following statement:
AT&T Mobility (AT&T) received the above-referenced customer complaint and appreciates the opportunity to respond. Specifically, Keith Geissler complains that the recently released Motorola Atrix does not offer speeds anywhere near what advertised speeds claim. He is requesting activation of 4G services and removal of the cap on the Motorola Atrix services.
Account research regarding this complaint shows that AT&T is focused on delivering a wide choice of solutions and the best possible Smartphone experience to our customers. Be assured that AT&T has not “capped” the upload speeds on the ATRIX. The ATRIX is a HSUPA-capable device, and we currently are performing the testing and preparations necessary to ensure that, when we turn this feature on, you will continue to have a world class experience.
We ask that you please keep in mind; software is only one of many factors that can affect speeds experienced. Factors such as location, time of day, network capacity and facilities, can have an impact as well. Again, in order to ensure the best possible customer experience services will become available once testing has been completed.
According to AT&T, the wireless carrier is not deliberately capping upload speed but has disabled this feature on the device. Though the Atrix 4G is capable of HSUPA speeds, this feature will not be available until the carrier issues a patch to turn on these HSPA speeds. AT&T is reportedly testing and preparing to turn this feature on at an undetermined point in the future. This may be unwelcome news to Atrix 4G owners who purchased the device with the expectation of HSDPA in the markets that support this network technology. Anyone now dissuaded from buying an Atrix 4G?
[Via xda-developers]