As it’s first test trial of Femtocell technology, AT&T began selling the MicroCell, a device that increases indoor 3G data coverage, and boosts cellular service. The MicroCell, according to AT&T, will use a customer’s home Internet service to connect phones within the house to their network. Calls that originate on the device switches to the closest tower when the user leaves home. Calls starting outside can’t transfer to the MicroCell. Rival companies such as Sprint and Verizon have been offering Femtocell hardware as well, but come up short. AT&T’s device covers not only calls, but also 3G data activity. With a coverage range of over 5,000 square feet and up to 10 phone lines, they have the market cornered.
The trails of Femtocell technology began in Charlotte, North Carolina, and as of now AT&T is only selling the device in Charlotte. It is available for $150.
AT&T is currently the largest provider of local and long distance telephone services in the United States. It is also the second largest provider of wireless services in the United States, with over 77 million wireless customers out of 150 million total.
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