MetroPCS joins the LTE train, Sprint rides WiMAX solo

MetroPCS has followed the move of Verizon Wireless by announcing they would be switching to GSM-based LTE technology for their next generation wireless network (4G).  As it currently stands, Verizon Wireless is joined by Alltel Wireless, At&t, MetroPCs, and potentially T-mobile (they have not made their announcement) in the push for LTE to be the global standard for next generation wireless.  On the opposing end of the spectrum you have Sprint’s deal with ClearWire which leaves Sprint as the only US carrier supporting the roll out of WiMAX, scheduled to go nationwide later this year (cross fingers).

The big question now is how long will CDMA technology last in the US with all other CDMA carriers switching over to GSM based LTE technology? In any case, it might be the time for Sprint to start considering that buy out from T-mobile (Deutsche Telekom) to combine their subscriber base, use T-mobile’s customer service and offer the best value in wireless with WiMAX data speeds.