SouthernLINC Wireless has inked a nationwide iDEN push-to-talk and data roaming deal with Sprint Nextel, despite Sprint’s plan to start shutting down the network in 2013.
According to SouthernLINC’s CEO Bob Dawson, the service will go live in April along with new simplified rate plans. Dawson said that Sprint’s decision to shut down its iDEN network could imperil the long-term prospects of the deal, while also noting that it would be foolish not to take the deal. “It’s an opportunity for us to win back customers” and sustain the company’s subscriber base, he said. Moreover, CEO of the Atlanta-based company added that most SouthernLINC subscribers — from utility workers to public safety workers — talk locally but would appreciate having nationwide roaming.
As part of the plan to shut down its iDEN network, Sprint will launch the Sprint Direct Connect service that will offer improved in-building coverage while tripling the square-mile reach of its current iDEN-based PTT service…
[Via: FierceWireless]