Verizon takes 1XRTT commercial

Verizon Wireless announced the commercial availability of its 1XRTT-based Express Network in ten markets. This launch is the result of the $5 billion 3G deal the carrier signed with Lucent.

Markets include Norfolk, Va., Washington, D.C., Baltimore, Philadelphia, New York, Boston, Portland, Maine, Silicon Valley, the San Francisco Bay Area and Salt Lake City. However, the carrier expects to roll out additional markets beginning in March, said a spokesman for Verizon.

In addition to launching its initial 1XRTT markets, Verizon also has struck a strategic relationship with Accenture, introduced a handset from Kyocera and a PC card from Sierra Wireless.

Verizon and Accenture will work together to market and sell mobile enterprise applications offered by the Accenture Mobile Service Bureau. Through the alliance, Verizon Wireless and Accenture will offer enterprise customers access to a wide variety of integrated mobile solutions deployed via Verizon Wireless’ Express Network as well as its existing digital network.

Verizon also announced that Kyocera’s tri-mode 1XRTT data-compatible wireless handset would be available. The handset, which retails for $79.99, includes features such as voice-activated dialing, a WAP browser, electronic games and two-way text messaging.

Lastly Verizon announced that the Sierra Wireless AirCard 555 wireless network card, a dual band CDMA 1XRTT PC card, could be used via the data network. The AirCard, which will offer high-speed connectivity at data speeds between 40 and 60 kbps, and peak data speeds up to 144 kbps, will let users add voice and short-messaging-service capabilities to their laptops, PDAs and other computing devices.