Engadget http://www.engadget.com Engadget http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.engadget.com/media/feedlogo.gif Engadget http://www.engadget.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[AT&T offering free MicroCells to top 7.5 percent of customers 'likely to experience poor in-building coverage']]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/atandt-offering-free-microcells-to-top-7-5-percent-of-customers-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/atandt-offering-free-microcells-to-top-7-5-percent-of-customers-l/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/21/atandt-offering-free-microcells-to-top-7-5-percent-of-customers-l/#comments We've known that AT&T has been test-marketing free 3G MicroCells to subscribers with particularly awful reception in certain parts of the country since the product launched last year, but as of January 23rd, they're codifying the offer and taking it nationwide. Bottom line: the "top 7.5 percent of 3G wireless customers identified as likely to experience poor in-building coverage at home or in small offices" will be receiving some snail mail with a discount code; bring it into an AT&T store and you'll be offered a gratis MicroCell. There's a catch, though -- you need to agree to a one-year contract on the unit (separate from your normal account contract), so if you cancel service within that year, you need to either return the MicroCell or get charged $199.99 minus $16.67 per month that you've had it. Of course, that lines up with the newly-increased MicroCell price that the carrier is instituting starting this Sunday. Considering that AT&T needs to acknowledge that you're in a terrible reception area to get it, we can't say we'd hope to be one of the "lucky" 7.5 percent -- but it's a nice benefit nonetheless.

AT&T offering free MicroCells to top 7.5 percent of customers 'likely to experience poor in-building coverage' originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 21 Jan 2011 12:09:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellattcoverageexclusivefemtocellmicrocellFri, 21 Jan 2011 12:09:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T tweaking messaging plans, killing some upgrade discounts, raising fees and MicroCell pricing]]>http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/atandt-tweaking-messaging-plans-killing-some-upgrade-discounts-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/atandt-tweaking-messaging-plans-killing-some-upgrade-discounts-r/http://www.engadget.com/2011/01/19/atandt-tweaking-messaging-plans-killing-some-upgrade-discounts-r/#comments How on Earth have Verizon and AT&T both decided to kill off their upgrade discount programs within a few days of each other? Hard to say, but we've gotten a little peek at some new policies designed to "streamline" things that are apparently coming into effect next Sunday, January 23rd -- and very few (if any) of them are going to bring a smile to your face. Here's the gist:
  • There'll be a new text package of 1,000 messages for $10 with overage at 10 cents apiece. This compares to 5 cents at the 1,500 / $15 level and 10 cents at the 200 / $5 level.
  • Speaking of those other text packages, they're going away. Both the 200 and 1,500 text plans are goners. Obviously, if you're already on them, you shouldn't be affected -- you just won't be able to select them for new plans or changes anymore.
  • Early upgrade pricing on new iPhones -- the standard subsidized price plus $200 -- will only be available six months into an existing iPhone activation.
  • $50 and $100 discounts on top of subsidized pricing for upgrading customers -- similar to Verizon's recently-killed New Every Two program -- are going away. If you're currently eligible, you'll still be eligible to take advantage through July 23rd of this year.
  • Family plan add-a-line activation is increasing $10 to $36.
  • International voice roaming prices are changing in 117 countries. That's a lot of countries! We're assuming most of those rates are going up, not down, though we don't have details at this point.
  • Calling to Canada is going from 29 cents per minute to 39 cents.
  • The 3G MicroCell is increasing in price from $149.99 to $199.99, which seems like a really bizarre move to us -- hard to say what the motivation is there. Certain "pre-selected" customers will still receive special discount offers for it in the mail, though.
Check out full details on the changes in the gallery below.

[Thanks, anonymous tipster]

Gallery: AT&T tweaking messaging plans, killing some upgrade discounts, raising fees and MicroCell pricing

AT&T tweaking messaging plans, killing some upgrade discounts, raising fees and MicroCell pricing originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 19 Jan 2011 17:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellattchangechangesdiscountexclusivemessagingmicrocellplanplanspricingupgradeWed, 19 Jan 2011 17:04:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T handing out free 3G MicroCells to loyal customers? (update: it's a market trial)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/10/atandt-handing-out-free-3g-microcells-to-loyal-customers/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/10/atandt-handing-out-free-3g-microcells-to-loyal-customers/http://www.engadget.com/2010/07/10/atandt-handing-out-free-3g-microcells-to-loyal-customers/#comments While we've no clue how widespread AT&T's generosity is, or how you might get one, it appears that the company's "most valuable customers" are now receiving free range-boosting femtocells. Today, loyal reader Jason got a old-fashioned paper letter in the mail, offering his iPhone-wielding family a 3G MicroCell with no strings attached. Driving down to the local AT&T store, he got the product, but the dumbfounded reps offered no explanation why. Though his calls do frequently drop at home, Jason says he wasn't terribly vocal about the issue and only pays around $180 per month for his family plan -- the only thing that might possibly qualify him, in his opinion, is that his contract was set to expire. We've reached out to AT&T for more information; in the meanwhile, see Jason's letter after the break.

[Thanks, Jason]

Update: We're being told that AT&T is currently in the process of trialling different ways of offering the MicroCell, which is why a handful of customers have received this letter. We suspect you're always going to get positive reactions when you're offering something for free... but maybe we're crazy.

Continue reading AT&T handing out free 3G MicroCells to loyal customers? (update: it's a market trial)

AT&T handing out free 3G MicroCells to loyal customers? (update: it's a market trial) originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 10 Jul 2010 20:56:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3G microcell3gMicrocellATTATT WirelessAttWirelessfemtocellfreegiveawaygiveawaysmicrocellrumorSat, 10 Jul 2010 20:56:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T 3G MicroCell now available in all markets]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/atandt-3g-microcell-now-available-in-all-markets/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/atandt-3g-microcell-now-available-in-all-markets/http://www.engadget.com/2010/06/22/atandt-3g-microcell-now-available-in-all-markets/#comments Completing a phased roll-out that kicked off back in April, AT&T has finally gotten around to launching its 3G MicroCell in all of its markets, giving the entire customer base some flexibility when "more bars in more places" doesn't happen to include your place. Interestingly, the announcement was made in passing during comments by AT&T director Gordon Mansfield at the Femtocells World Summit in London this week, where he spent much of his time trying to quell a minor furor over the carrier's continued application of data caps when using the MicroCell. He makes some pretty strong arguments: even though all MicroCell voice and data traffic starts off traveling over your own internet connection, it ultimately ends up within AT&T's core infrastructure -- and a legal requirement that the carrier be able to intercept traffic for law enforcement use prevents it from diverting that traffic elsewhere. More importantly, though, if you're within range of a MicroCell, odds are very good that you're also within range of a WiFi connection -- and since all of AT&T's data-heavy handsets offer WiFi, the whole complaint is kinda moot. So just get one if you need one and don't worry about it, okay?

AT&T 3G MicroCell now available in all markets originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Jun 2010 14:53:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellattdatadata capdata capsDataCapDataCapsfemtocellmicrocellTue, 22 Jun 2010 14:53:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T Palm Pre Plus and 3G MicroCell available nationwide on May 16 (update: not quite nationwide)]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/07/atandt-palm-pre-plus-and-3g-microcell-available-nationwide-on-may/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/07/atandt-palm-pre-plus-and-3g-microcell-available-nationwide-on-may/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/07/atandt-palm-pre-plus-and-3g-microcell-available-nationwide-on-may/#comments You've waited long enough AT&T customers. So long that the Palm Pre is now the Palm Pre Plus and Palm, well, isn't even Palm anymore. But you just never mind all that, what's important is that AT&T subscribers will finally have dibs on the Palm Pre Plus starting May 16th, nationwide. No mention of a free 3G mobile hotspot capability like that offered by Verizon, but you will have free access to AT&T's 20k-strong network of fixed hotspots. Now we just need a price -- an interesting dilemma after VZW lowered the PPP to just $30 on contract.

Our tipster also tells us that AT&T will be rolling out its 3G MicroCell from coast-to-coast on the same day. Makes sense since AT&T already gave us a mid-April date for its little signal boosting wonder.

[Thanks, D.]

Update: We just spoke to AT&T about this whole ordeal; they wouldn't confirm or deny the Pre Plus situation, but we were told that there's "no change" in the MicroCell plans -- May 16 won't be a nationwide rollout, and there will be more rollouts in the weeks after.

AT&T Palm Pre Plus and 3G MicroCell available nationwide on May 16 (update: not quite nationwide) originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 07 May 2010 01:36:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>atthpleakmicrocellpalmpalm pre plusPalmPrePlusplusprepre plusPrePlusFri, 07 May 2010 01:36:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T 3G MicroCell available in some unlaunched markets, if you try hard enough]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/03/atandt-3g-microcell-available-in-some-unlaunched-markets-if-you-t/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/03/atandt-3g-microcell-available-in-some-unlaunched-markets-if-you-t/http://www.engadget.com/2010/05/03/atandt-3g-microcell-available-in-some-unlaunched-markets-if-you-t/#comments I've personally been following the launch of AT&T's 3G MicroCell very, very closely; I moved last year into a box surrounded on three sides by foot-thick cement (not much of an exaggeration) in which only Verizon's and T-Mobile's signals were able to penetrate without assistance -- and in my position, it's a non-negotiable requirement that I be able to use devices from all four US nationals. Since the announcement a few weeks back that the MicroCell would be going national, I've been practically bombarding my Chicago-area stores with calls, looking for a hint of detail on when they might be available here; they've already launched in New York City, so AT&T clearly isn't concerned about using them in densely-packed urban areas. This weekend I called four stores, and here's what I got:

Store 1: "We're supposed to have them in a couple of weeks."
Store 2: "We'll have them on May 6."
Store 3: "We have them in stock. Oh, hold on a minute. (long pause) I'm sorry, we're not allowed to sell them until the 10th."
Store 4: "Yes, we have them in stock."

In other words, there was no shortage of variety in sales reps' stories. I don't know how this happens -- it's conceivable that AT&T really is telling each store something entirely different, but it seems far more likely that these guys simply haven't been effectively educated on what's going on here. At any rate, I was able to march down to the fourth store I called and pick up the MicroCell with no hassles, therefore ending a many month-long personal nightmare of mine (and by the way, the device works just wonderfully).

The lesson learned? Even if the MicroCell hasn't launched in your market -- that is, you go to AT&T's MicroCell site and it tells you it's not yet available in your zip code -- be persistent and keep calling around. You've just got to find that one sales guy who's willing to flip it.

AT&T 3G MicroCell available in some unlaunched markets, if you try hard enough originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 03 May 2010 10:54:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellattfemtocellmicrocellmobileMon, 03 May 2010 10:54:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T announces expanded availability of 3G MicroCell]]>http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/25/atandt-announces-expanded-availability-of-3g-microcell/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/25/atandt-announces-expanded-availability-of-3g-microcell/http://www.engadget.com/2010/02/25/atandt-announces-expanded-availability-of-3g-microcell/#comments It may not be the news that folks in some particularly problematic areas have been waiting for, but AT&T has now announced that it's finally expanded availability of its 3G MicroCell beyond its initial testbed cities like Raleigh and Charlotte. The new markets apparently include some additional areas of North Carolina, along with new parts of South Carolina, Georgia, and San Diego, plus the addition of Las Vegas -- the only entirely-new market of the bunch. Hit up the link below to punch in your zipcode for exact availability, and all the necessary details to get "five bars in your own home." And if you're curious about exactly what this whole femtocell thing is about, be sure to check out our impressions of the device.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

AT&T announces expanded availability of 3G MicroCell originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 16:26:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g3g microcell3gMicrocellattatt 3g microcellatt microcellAtt3gMicrocellAttMicrocellfemtocellmicrocellThu, 25 Feb 2010 16:26:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T to offer 'incentives' to customers willing to limit data usage]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/17/atandt-to-offer-incentives-to-customers-willing-to-limit-data-us/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/17/atandt-to-offer-incentives-to-customers-willing-to-limit-data-us/http://www.engadget.com/2009/12/17/atandt-to-offer-incentives-to-customers-willing-to-limit-data-us/#commentsAT&T exec #1: You know, our network's really getting slammed with all these people using their unlimited data plans to download things and do stuff online all the time. Any ideas how we can fix it?

AT&T exec #2: We could put out more WiFi hotspots. People seem to use those. Sometimes.

AT&T exec #1: Sure, but that's not going to make a dent in places like New York City. I mean, have you used an iPhone there?

AT&T exec #2: We have these things called MicroCells that people can use at home, if they live in North Carolina. Maybe more people could use those?

AT&T exec #1: Yeah, that's good. But people like to use their cellphones outside their house too. What happens then?

AT&T exec #2: Well, what if we offered customers incentives to use less data?

AT&T exec #1: Now you're talking! What sort of incentives could get them to do that?

AT&T exec #2: Hmm....

Well, readers, are there any incentives that would get you to use less data? Feel free to offer your suggestions for AT&T in the comments below. And don't worry about actually paying more for data (yet, anyway), as AT&T 's Ralph de la Vega is now saying that "we have not made any decision to implement tiered pricing," which is a slight backtrack from previous hints to the contrary.

AT&T to offer 'incentives' to customers willing to limit data usage originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 17 Dec 2009 12:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attdatadata usageDataUsagefemtocellhotspotmicrocellralph de la vegaRalphDeLaVegawifi hotspotWifiHotspotThu, 17 Dec 2009 12:55:00 EST<![CDATA[How would you change AT&T's 3G MicroCell?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/27/how-would-you-change-atandts-3g-microcell/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/27/how-would-you-change-atandts-3g-microcell/http://www.engadget.com/2009/11/27/how-would-you-change-atandts-3g-microcell/#comments We know, we know -- AT&T's 3G MicroCell isn't even out nationwide yet, but for those select markets that have access, we're hoping you'll chime in on the pros and cons as to enlighten the other folks before their time comes. By and large, the GSM femotocell works exactly like the Airave for Sprint, though this one does fully support 3G data as well as simultaneous voice and data usage. For those that have taken the plunge: are you satisfied with the value proposition? Is reception really any better? Have you ditched your landline yet? What would you change about the service or billing? Voice your opinion on the matter below, and remember, life doesn't present you with many chances such as this. Wouldn't want to waste it, now would we?

How would you change AT&T's 3G MicroCell? originally appeared on Engadget on Fri, 27 Nov 2009 23:51:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g3g microcell3gMicrocellattcarrierfeaturesfemtocellgsmhow would you changeHowWouldYouChangehwycmicrocelloperatorrange boosterrange extenderRangeBoosterRangeExtenderreceptionservicesignalsignal boosterSignalBoosterFri, 27 Nov 2009 23:51:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T 3G MicroCell unboxing and impressions]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/28/atandt-3g-microcell-unboxing-and-impressions/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/28/atandt-3g-microcell-unboxing-and-impressions/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/28/atandt-3g-microcell-unboxing-and-impressions/#comments We've already seen AT&T's 3G MicroCell picked up by a few desperate Charlotteans, but for those residing in North Carolina's only city to own a professional sports championship (sorry, Panthers), their time has finally come to secure what just might be the most anticipated femtocell debut in the states. You heard right -- Raleigh, NC has become AT&T's second test market for the device you're peering at above, and starting today, those in and around the Triangle can procure one from their local store. Needless to say, we jumped at the chance to give the unit a go, so feel free to hop on past the break if you're on the hunt for a few more impressions.

Gallery: AT&T 3G MicroCell unboxing and impressions

Continue reading AT&T 3G MicroCell unboxing and impressions

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AT&T 3G MicroCell unboxing and impressions originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellatandtattedgefeaturesfemtocellGSMhands-onhsdpaimpressionsmicrocellmobilenorth carolinaNorthCarolinaperipheralspicspicturesraleighrange extenderRangeExtenderMon, 28 Sep 2009 13:19:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T 3G MicroCell unboxing and impressions]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/28/atandt-3g-microcell-unboxing-and-impressions/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/28/atandt-3g-microcell-unboxing-and-impressions/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/28/atandt-3g-microcell-unboxing-and-impressions/#comments We've already seen AT&T's 3G MicroCell picked up by a few desperate Charlotteans, but for those residing in North Carolina's only city to own a professional sports championship (sorry, Panthers), their time has finally come to secure what just might be the most anticipated femtocell debut in the states. You heard right -- Raleigh, NC has become AT&T's second test market for the device you're peering at above, and starting today, those in and around the Triangle can procure one from their local store. Needless to say, we jumped at the chance to give the unit a go, so feel free to hop on past the break if you're on the hunt for a few more impressions.

Gallery: AT&T 3G MicroCell unboxing and impressions

Continue reading AT&T 3G MicroCell unboxing and impressions

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AT&T 3G MicroCell unboxing and impressions originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 28 Sep 2009 13:19:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellattfeaturesfemtocellGSMhands-onimpressionsmicrocellnorth carolinaNorthCarolinapicspicturespreviewraleighrange extenderRangeExtenderMon, 28 Sep 2009 13:19:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's 3G MicroCell tested and reviewed by Charlottean: yes, it works]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/atandts-3g-microcell-tested-and-reviewed-by-charlottian-yes-it/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/atandts-3g-microcell-tested-and-reviewed-by-charlottian-yes-it/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/atandts-3g-microcell-tested-and-reviewed-by-charlottian-yes-it/#comments
For those who missed the torrent of 3G MicroCell news yesterday, here's the long and short of it: the Cisco-built device is now on sale, but only in Charlotte, North Carolina. One fortunate Charlottean managed to scoop one up, but rather than keeping the experience to himself, he decided to bang out a full review for the rest of the world to see. By and large, Jason's experience with the femtocell mirrored our own with Sprint's AIRAVE. Installation and setup was a breeze, and once it was booted up and operational, it worked like a charm. Before picking this up, he was seeing one bar of EDGE (if he was lucky); afterwards, his entire house was blanketed with five bars of 3G. Not surprisingly, he noted that the before and after difference when fielding calls was "night and day," but he did take the opportunity to bark at the lofty $150 price tag. But hey, those desperate enough will cough up anything to actually use their phone, right?

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AT&T's 3G MicroCell tested and reviewed by Charlottean: yes, it works originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellatandtattCharlotteCiscoedgefemtocellgsmhsdpamicrocellmobilencperipheralsrange extenderRangeExtenderreviewedsignal boosterSignalBoosterTue, 22 Sep 2009 12:08:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's 3G MicroCell tested and reviewed by Charlottean: yes, it works]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/atandts-3g-microcell-tested-and-reviewed-by-charlottian-yes-it/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/atandts-3g-microcell-tested-and-reviewed-by-charlottian-yes-it/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/22/atandts-3g-microcell-tested-and-reviewed-by-charlottian-yes-it/#comments
For those who missed the torrent of 3G MicroCell news yesterday, here's the long and short of it: the Cisco-built device is now on sale, but only in Charlotte, North Carolina. One fortunate Charlottean managed to scoop one up, but rather than keeping the experience to himself, he decided to bang out a full review for the rest of the world to see. By and large, Jason's experience with the femtocell mirrored our own with Sprint's AIRAVE. Installation and setup was a breeze, and once it was booted up and operational, it worked like a charm. Before picking this up, he was seeing one bar of EDGE (if he was lucky); afterwards, his entire house was blanketed with five bars of 3G. Not surprisingly, he noted that the before and after difference when fielding calls was "night and day," but he did take the opportunity to bark at the lofty $150 price tag. But hey, those desperate enough will cough up anything to actually use their phone, right?

Filed under: ,

AT&T's 3G MicroCell tested and reviewed by Charlottean: yes, it works originally appeared on Engadget on Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellattCharlotteCiscofemtocellgsmmicrocellncrange extenderRangeExtenderreviewedsignal boosterSignalBoosterTue, 22 Sep 2009 12:08:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's 3G MicroCell gets unboxed, looks sufficiently cute]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-gets-unboxed-looks-sufficiently-cute/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-gets-unboxed-looks-sufficiently-cute/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-gets-unboxed-looks-sufficiently-cute/#comments
It's sort of outrageous how much publicity AT&T's very own femtocell has garnered here lately, particularly when you realize that it's limited to the Charlotte, North Carolina area alone. But look -- did you really expect us to pass up what appears to be the very first unboxing of the 3G MicroCell? No, you didn't. Hit the read link if you're somehow not quite past the point of saturation, and be sure to have a peek past the break for an unexpected treat.

[Thanks, Aaron]

Continue reading AT&T's 3G MicroCell gets unboxed, looks sufficiently cute

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AT&T's 3G MicroCell gets unboxed, looks sufficiently cute originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellatandtattedgefemtocellgsmhsdpain the wildInTheWildmicrocellmobileperipheralsunboxunboxedunboxingMon, 21 Sep 2009 18:03:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's 3G MicroCell gets unboxed, looks sufficiently cute]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-gets-unboxed-looks-sufficiently-cute/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-gets-unboxed-looks-sufficiently-cute/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-gets-unboxed-looks-sufficiently-cute/#comments
It's sort of outrageous how much publicity AT&T's very own femtocell has garnered here lately, particularly when you realize that it's limited to the Charlotte, North Carolina area alone. But look -- did you really expect us to pass up what appears to be the very first unboxing of the 3G MicroCell? No, you didn't. Hit the read link if you're somehow not quite past the point of saturation, and be sure to have a peek past the break for an unexpected treat.

[Thanks, Aaron]

Continue reading AT&T's 3G MicroCell gets unboxed, looks sufficiently cute

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AT&T's 3G MicroCell gets unboxed, looks sufficiently cute originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 18:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellattfemtocellin the wildInTheWildmicrocellunboxunboxedunboxingMon, 21 Sep 2009 18:03:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's 3G MicroCell runs $150 in Charlotte trial, service is free without unlimited calling]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-runs-150-in-charlotte-trial-service-is-fre/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-runs-150-in-charlotte-trial-service-is-fre/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-runs-150-in-charlotte-trial-service-is-fre/#comments Gearlog has scooped pricing details on AT&T's entry into the up-and-coming femtocell market, the 3G MicroCell, where it's currently undergoing a public market trial in Charlotte, North Carolina -- and basically, it's a decent deal as long as you don't want unlimited calling. Stores are charging $150 for the unit itself and service is free (similar to Verizon's model, though Verizon charges $100 more upfront and the unit doesn't do 3G); if you want to tack on unlimited calling, you're paying another $20 a month unless you have some combination of AT&T landline or DSL service at your address. $20 is properly insane, though in exchange, the carrier throws you a bone with a $100 rebate on the device. All they've got to do is drop that unlimited service down to $10 a month to bring 'em in line with Sprint and T-Mobile and put some pressure on Verizon, which still doesn't offer any unlimited add-on.

[Via Mac Rumors]

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AT&T's 3G MicroCell runs $150 in Charlotte trial, service is free without unlimited calling originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellattfemtocellmicrocellpricingpublic trialPublicTrialtrialMon, 21 Sep 2009 13:37:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's 3G MicroCell runs $150 in Charlotte trial, service is free without unlimited calling]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-runs-150-in-charlotte-trial-service-is-fre/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-runs-150-in-charlotte-trial-service-is-fre/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/21/atandts-3g-microcell-runs-150-in-charlotte-trial-service-is-fre/#comments Gearlog has scooped pricing details on AT&T's entry into the up-and-coming femtocell market, the 3G MicroCell, where it's currently undergoing a public market trial in Charlotte, North Carolina -- and basically, it's a decent deal as long as you don't want unlimited calling. Stores are charging $150 for the unit itself and service is free (similar to Verizon's model, though Verizon charges $100 more upfront and the unit doesn't do 3G); if you want to tack on unlimited calling, you're paying another $20 a month unless you have some combination of AT&T landline or DSL service at your address. $20 is properly insane, though in exchange, the carrier throws you a bone with a $100 rebate on the device. All they've got to do is drop that unlimited service down to $10 a month to bring 'em in line with Sprint and T-Mobile and put some pressure on Verizon, which still doesn't offer any unlimited add-on.

[Via Mac Rumors]

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AT&T's 3G MicroCell runs $150 in Charlotte trial, service is free without unlimited calling originally appeared on Engadget on Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:37:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellatandtattfemtocellmicrocellmobilepricingpublic trialPublicTrialtrialMon, 21 Sep 2009 13:37:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's 3G MicroCell does unlimited calling, but it ain't cheap]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/20/atandts-3g-microcell-does-unlimited-calling-but-it-aint-cheap/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/20/atandts-3g-microcell-does-unlimited-calling-but-it-aint-cheap/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/20/atandts-3g-microcell-does-unlimited-calling-but-it-aint-cheap/#comments How much would you expect to pay to cover AT&T's dead zone using your own internet bandwidth? We appreciate that these guys can't blanket every nook and cranny with HSPA, but carriers need to understand that femtocells are ultimately tools to help them retain customers who'd otherwise have to leave for greener pastures. AT&T's certainly not treating it that way with the 3G MicroCell. Let's compare:
  • Sprint's Airave runs $4.99 a month, but they'll give it to you for free if the alternative canceling your service. Unlimited use is $10 a month.
  • Verizon charges nothing once you buy the unit, though there's no unlimited calling option available.
  • T-Mobile offers unlimited calling through its WiFi-based HotSpot@Home service for $9.99 a month.
  • AT&T's going to charge $19.99 a month for unlimited use unless you've got internet or landline (ironic) service with them, in which case you'll pay $9.99. If you've got both internet and landline accounts, it's free.
It's nice to have unlimited calling tacked on as an option here, but it should be exactly half as much, end of story -- and in an era where landlines are on life support (and femtocells should be helping to accelerate their demise), the triple play tie-in is wrongheaded. Of course, none of this is official just yet, but with pamphlets already circulating in retail channels, these numbers look like the real deal. A shame, isn't it?

[Thanks, anonymous tipster]

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AT&T's 3G MicroCell does unlimited calling, but it ain't cheap originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellattfemtocellmicrocellSun, 20 Sep 2009 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's 3G MicroCell does unlimited calling, but it ain't cheap]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/20/atandts-3g-microcell-does-unlimited-calling-but-it-aint-cheap/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/20/atandts-3g-microcell-does-unlimited-calling-but-it-aint-cheap/http://www.engadget.com/2009/09/20/atandts-3g-microcell-does-unlimited-calling-but-it-aint-cheap/#comments How much would you expect to pay to cover AT&T's dead zone using your own internet bandwidth? We appreciate that these guys can't blanket every nook and cranny with HSPA, but carriers need to understand that femtocells are ultimately tools to help them retain customers who'd otherwise have to leave for greener pastures. AT&T's certainly not treating it that way with the 3G MicroCell. Let's compare:
  • Sprint's Airave runs $4.99 a month, but they'll give it to you for free if the alternative canceling your service. Unlimited use is $10 a month.
  • Verizon charges nothing once you buy the unit, though there's no unlimited calling option available.
  • T-Mobile offers unlimited calling through its WiFi-based HotSpot@Home service for $9.99 a month.
  • AT&T's going to charge $19.99 a month for unlimited use unless you've got internet or landline (ironic) service with them, in which case you'll pay $9.99. If you've got both internet and landline accounts, it's free.
It's nice to have unlimited calling tacked on as an option here, but it should be exactly half as much, end of story -- and in an era where landlines are on life support (and femtocells should be helping to accelerate their demise), the triple play tie-in is wrongheaded. Of course, none of this is official just yet, but with pamphlets already circulating in retail channels, these numbers look like the real deal. A shame, isn't it?

[Thanks, anonymous tipster]

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AT&T's 3G MicroCell does unlimited calling, but it ain't cheap originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 20 Sep 2009 18:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellatandtattfemtocellmicrocellmobileSun, 20 Sep 2009 18:20:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's 3G MicroCell still on track for release sometime before the end of the year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/25/atandts-3g-microcell-still-on-track-for-release-sometime-before-t/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/25/atandts-3g-microcell-still-on-track-for-release-sometime-before-t/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/25/atandts-3g-microcell-still-on-track-for-release-sometime-before-t/#commentsAT&T's 3G MicroCell still on track for release sometime before the end of the year
We've known the tech behind AT&T's spin on the home-based femtocell repeater since January, and in February a little iPhone update revealed that we were getting closer to prime time. Finally, news of limited trials and then... silence. AT&T has apparently been keeping its head down, diligently testing its MicroCell service, with 200 lucky subscribers having Cisco boxes beam full bars to the darkest corners of their living rooms for months, testing that has been successful enough for AT&T's Gordon Mansfield to say that it's still "on track for a full national launch." That's the good news. The bad news is that he continued by saying it'll release sometime "by the end of 2009." So, you might be in for up to six more months of dangling your iPhone out the window to get your voicemail, but hold tough -- you can make it.

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AT&T's 3G MicroCell still on track for release sometime before the end of the year originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 07:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g3g microcell3gMicrocellatandtattatt 3g microcellatt microcellAtt3gMicrocellAttMicrocelledgefemtocellgordon mansfieldGordonMansfieldgsmhsdpamicrocellmobileperipheralsumtsThu, 25 Jun 2009 07:29:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T's 3G MicroCell still on track for release sometime before the end of the year]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/25/atandts-3g-microcell-still-on-track-for-release-sometime-before-t/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/25/atandts-3g-microcell-still-on-track-for-release-sometime-before-t/http://www.engadget.com/2009/06/25/atandts-3g-microcell-still-on-track-for-release-sometime-before-t/#commentsAT&T's 3G MicroCell still on track for release sometime before the end of the year
We've known the tech behind AT&T's spin on the home-based femtocell repeater since January, and in February a little iPhone update revealed that we were getting closer to prime time. Finally, news of limited trials and then... silence. AT&T has apparently been keeping its head down, diligently testing its MicroCell service, with 200 lucky subscribers having Cisco boxes beam full bars to the darkest corners of their living rooms for months, testing that has been successful enough for AT&T's Gordon Mansfield to say that it's still "on track for a full national launch." That's the good news. The bad news is that he continued by saying it'll release sometime "by the end of 2009." So, you might be in for up to six more months of dangling your iPhone out the window to get your voicemail, but hold tough -- you can make it.

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AT&T's 3G MicroCell still on track for release sometime before the end of the year originally appeared on Engadget on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 07:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g3g microcell3gMicrocellattatt 3g microcellatt microcellAtt3gMicrocellAttMicrocellfemtocellgordon mansfieldGordonMansfieldmicrocellThu, 25 Jun 2009 07:29:00 EST<![CDATA[AT&T 3G MicroCell trials starting this week, retail in June or later?]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/08/atandt-3g-microcell-trials-starting-this-week-retail-in-june-or-l/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/08/atandt-3g-microcell-trials-starting-this-week-retail-in-june-or-l/http://www.engadget.com/2009/04/08/atandt-3g-microcell-trials-starting-this-week-retail-in-june-or-l/#comments Word on the street is that AT&T kicked off a trial of its 3G MicroCell HSPA-enabled femtocell this week, with units being delivered to signal-deprived homes on Tuesday. We've been hearing about the thing for long enough now that we would've liked to see a release, like, now -- but given that these trials are apparently expected to run through June 9, we guess we wouldn't expect to see it at retail until then, assuming everything goes well. In the meantime, participants are getting 200 bones on top of the unit itself, so color us jealous. Follow the break for AT&T's full email to testers.

[Thanks, anonymous tipster]

Continue reading AT&T 3G MicroCell trials starting this week, retail in June or later?

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AT&T 3G MicroCell trials starting this week, retail in June or later? originally appeared on Engadget on Wed, 08 Apr 2009 11:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellatandtattedgefemtocellgsmhsdpamicrocellmobileperipheralstrialumtsWed, 08 Apr 2009 11:10:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone Carrier Update hints at AT&T MicroCell coming soon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/07/iphone-carrier-update-hints-at-atandt-microcell-coming-soon/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/07/iphone-carrier-update-hints-at-atandt-microcell-coming-soon/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/07/iphone-carrier-update-hints-at-atandt-microcell-coming-soon/#commentsiPhone users in the US have recently been hit with a "carrier update" when they sync with their machines, and a little digging reveals that the package contains two "AT&T M-Cell" carrier logos -- suggesting that Ma Bell's upcoming MicroCell femtocell is close to launch. Still no word on how much the Cisco-sourced hardware will cost when it does arrive and we're still not super-stoked on the idea of paying a monthly fee to improve AT&T's own service, but if you've been patiently waiting to take matters into your own hands, we'd guess you'll be rewarded soon.

[Via TUAW]

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iPhone Carrier Update hints at AT&T MicroCell coming soon originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 07 Feb 2009 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>appleatandtattfemtocelliphoneiphone carrier updateIphoneCarrierUpdatemicrocellmobilepicocellSat, 07 Feb 2009 12:39:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone Carrier Update hints at AT&T MicroCell coming soon]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/07/iphone-carrier-update-hints-at-atandt-microcell-coming-soon/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/07/iphone-carrier-update-hints-at-atandt-microcell-coming-soon/http://www.engadget.com/2009/02/07/iphone-carrier-update-hints-at-atandt-microcell-coming-soon/#commentsiPhone users in the US have recently been hit with a "carrier update" when they sync with their machines, and a little digging reveals that the package contains two "AT&T M-Cell" carrier logos -- suggesting that Ma Bell's upcoming MicroCell femtocell is close to launch. Still no word on how much the Cisco-sourced hardware will cost when it does arrive and we're still not super-stoked on the idea of paying a monthly fee to improve AT&T's own service, but if you've been patiently waiting to take matters into your own hands, we'd guess you'll be rewarded soon.

[Via TUAW]

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iPhone Carrier Update hints at AT&T MicroCell coming soon originally appeared on Engadget on Sat, 07 Feb 2009 12:39:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>attfemtocelliphoneiphone carrier updateIphoneCarrierUpdatemicrocellpicocellSat, 07 Feb 2009 12:39:00 EST<![CDATA[Details on AT&T's 3G MicroCell: everything but the date and price]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/25/details-on-atandts-3g-microcell-everything-but-the-date-and-pric/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/25/details-on-atandts-3g-microcell-everything-but-the-date-and-pric/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/25/details-on-atandts-3g-microcell-everything-but-the-date-and-pric/#comments
T-Mobile has HotSpot @Home, Sprint has AIRAVE, and Verizon has its Wireless Network Extender, leaving just AT&T among the States' big four carriers without a launched WiFi or femtocell solution for extending signals into the home -- but it looks like that's finally getting close to changing. We know that they've been in the process of trialing some units recently, and tipsters have observed that there's now a pretty slick site launched on AT&T's domain for its 3G MicroCell, an indication that they might be looking to go retail eventually. There's quite a bit of detail here; from the picture, we can make out that the unit comes from Cisco (versus Samsung for Sprint and Verizon), and like its competitors, the MicroCell will require a broadband connection to operate. It'll cover up to 5,000 square feet, allow up to four simultaneous voice or data connections (locked down so that your neighbors can't pilfer the signal), and most interestingly, will only work with 3G phones. We've heard that femtocells are more difficult to manage in a 2G GSM environment than in CDMA and WCDMA -- hence the 3G requirement -- but the cells offered by Sprint and Samsung only offer 2G coverage, so AT&T's arguably got an advantage here. We still don't know exactly when this is coming or for how much dough, but the site makes mention of a "3G MicroCell service plan," so we'd count on a fee for the pleasure of extending AT&T's network on their behalf. Follow the break for AT&T's full rundown of the device.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Details on AT&T's 3G MicroCell: everything but the date and price

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Details on AT&T's 3G MicroCell: everything but the date and price originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Jan 2009 22:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellattfemtocellmicrocellSun, 25 Jan 2009 22:31:00 EST<![CDATA[Details on AT&T's 3G MicroCell: everything but the date and price]]>http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/25/details-on-atandts-3g-microcell-everything-but-the-date-and-pric/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/25/details-on-atandts-3g-microcell-everything-but-the-date-and-pric/http://www.engadget.com/2009/01/25/details-on-atandts-3g-microcell-everything-but-the-date-and-pric/#comments
T-Mobile has HotSpot @Home, Sprint has AIRAVE, and Verizon has its Wireless Network Extender, leaving just AT&T among the States' big four carriers without a launched WiFi or femtocell solution for extending signals into the home -- but it looks like that's finally getting close to changing. We know that they've been in the process of trialing some units recently, and tipsters have observed that there's now a pretty slick site launched on AT&T's domain for its 3G MicroCell, an indication that they might be looking to go retail eventually. There's quite a bit of detail here; from the picture, we can make out that the unit comes from Cisco (versus Samsung for Sprint and Verizon), and like its competitors, the MicroCell will require a broadband connection to operate. It'll cover up to 5,000 square feet, allow up to four simultaneous voice or data connections (locked down so that your neighbors can't pilfer the signal), and most interestingly, will only work with 3G phones. We've heard that femtocells are more difficult to manage in a 2G GSM environment than in CDMA and WCDMA -- hence the 3G requirement -- but the cells offered by Sprint and Samsung only offer 2G coverage, so AT&T's arguably got an advantage here. We still don't know exactly when this is coming or for how much dough, but the site makes mention of a "3G MicroCell service plan," so we'd count on a fee for the pleasure of extending AT&T's network on their behalf. Follow the break for AT&T's full rundown of the device.

[Thanks to everyone who sent this in]

Continue reading Details on AT&T's 3G MicroCell: everything but the date and price

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Details on AT&T's 3G MicroCell: everything but the date and price originally appeared on Engadget on Sun, 25 Jan 2009 22:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>3g microcell3gMicrocellatandtattfemtocellhsdpamicrocellmobileumtsSun, 25 Jan 2009 22:31:00 EST