Full XOHM pricing details after the cut

The Home service will be priced at $25 per month for the first six months, after which it rises to $35/mo.  The On-the-Go plan is initially priced at $30 per month, again for the first six months, then rises to $45/mo.  XOHM subscribers will also be offered a combination package, called Pick 2, which gives both Home and On-the-Go access for $50 per month for the first six months, then $65/mo afterwards.

Finally, a pay-per-day option – called Daily On-the-Go – is available, priced at $10 each day.  The benefit is that there’s no contract, and it’s suitable for anybody moving in and out of WiMAX coverage; the downside is the price, which works out significantly higher than any of the other options.

The XOHM ExpressCard modem is priced at $59.99 while the XOHM USB modem is yet to be priced.  Alternatively the XOHM Modem/Gateway is priced at $79.99.

[via Phone Magazine]

The F8Va-C2WM will have Intel’s Core 2 Duo T9400 processor, 4GB of RAM and a 320GB hard-drive.  It will also include ASUS’ Infusion technology, which protects the notebook from scratches and bumps in normal, day-to-day use.  As for the N50Vn and M50Vm, they will both use Intel’s Centrino 2 P8400 processor with 4GB of RAM, a 250GB hard-drive and discrete NVIDIA 9600M video card.

Pricing for the F8Va-C2WM starts at $1,599, while the N50Vn and M50Vm will be priced from $1,399.  The notebooks are believed to be available today.

Currently only PC compatible, the SWC-E100 measures 4.6 x 1.6 x 0.5 inches and weighs 1.3oz.  PC Mag reviewed it recently, and came away impressed with the WiMAX speeds but disappointed by the absence of an external antenna connector and the lack of other WWAN capabilities; given XOHM’s limited availability at present, that would’ve been a very useful addition.

The Samsung SWC-E100 is expected to retail at $59.99 with a new XOHM contract from Sprint.  Contract prices are yet to be confirmed.  It should be available today, bundled with an ExpressCard-to-PC-Card adapter.

As with other XOHM hardware, the TU25 is capable of average downlink speeds of 2-4 Mbps and uplink rates of 1-2 Mbps.  The TU25 measures 85 x 35 x 14.4mm and weighs 57g.

No word on pricing or availability as yet, and Sprint is being equally coy with their XOHM data pricing details.  SlashGear is in Baltimore for the official XOHM launch today, so we’ll let you know figures as soon as we hear them.

Press Release:

ZTE Achieves XOHM Certification for WiMAX Modem

Only USB Modem Available for Launch of XOHM’s Commercial WiMAX Service in Baltimore

ZTE USA, a subsidiary of ZTE Corporation, a leading global telecommunications equipment and network solutions provider, today announced that Sprint’s XOHMTM WiMAX business unit has certified its TU25 USB modem after extensive evaluation in the XOHM Herndon, Va. lab environment. The USB modem is the first certified for use with XOHM’s Mobile WiMAX service, the company’s next-generation broadband service now commercially available in Baltimore and planned elsewhere.

WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) is a wireless internet technology designed to provide broadband connections over large areas – even in challenging city environments. ZTE’s TU25 USB Modem provides XOHM’s subscribers with reliable, high speed broadband wireless connection for laptops and desktop computers with a USB port.

XOHM’s certification of the ZTE TU25 USB Modem signifies the product’s interoperability with other elements of the WiMAX network including back-office provisioning and customer relationship management systems and infrastructure. In addition to the XOHM certification, ZTE’s modem has also achieved Microsoft’s WQHL certification, USB Forum certification and FCC certification, marking it ready for commercial usage.

“With our newly achieved certification, consumers and enterprises everywhere are one step closer to realizing the promise of WiMAX technology which we see as the next-generation of broadband wireless access,” said Dr. George Sun, CEO, ZTE USA. “The certification of our USB modem proves that XOHM has chosen a high quality and reliable product that is a key component of the Baltimore launch, as well as future service roll-outs. We are proud to be working hand-in-hand with XOHM and its other vendor partners to help pioneer WiMAX in the United States.”

XOHM launched its first commercial service in the Baltimore area on September 29th. ZTE’s USB modem is the only USB modem presently certified for use. ZTE worked closely with XOHM to complete the testing and certification in the XOHM ND-ADE lab.

“We know that part of our commercial success relies on our ability to offer our subscribers technologically advanced equipment that will enable them to seamlessly harness the power of our WiMAX service,” said Bin Shen, VP Product Management and Partnership Development for XOHM. “After putting ZTE’s USB modem through rigorous testing, we are confident to offer our customers this product as part of their service equipment. We look forward to working with ZTE as we launch other cities later this year and next.”

Specific specs for the U405-ST550W are unknown, but the ultraportable notebook is likely to use Intel’s Core 2 Duo T5750 processor, have 3GB of RAM and a DVD burner.  The U405-series have webcams and microphones, together with Bluetooth 2.1+EDR.

Hard-drive size is expected to be in excess of 320GB.  The Toshiba Satellite U405-ST550W laptop with integrated WiMAX will go on sale today, price is unknown.

Press Release:

TOSHIBA SUPPORTS INTRODUCTION OF MOBILE WiMAX WITH THE LAUNCH OF WiMAX-ENABLED SATELLITE U405 LAPTOP

Intel Centrino 2-based Toshiba Laptop Provide Users with Greater Range of Wireless Connectivity

Baltimore — Oct. 8, 2008 — BALTIMORE, (Oct. 8, 2008) – Toshiba’s Digital Products Division (DPD), today announced its support of Intel® and WiMAX(1) 4G wireless broadband technology to deliver extended broadband on-the-go. In support of the launch of the first mobile WiMAX network in the US, and the beginning of a new era of wireless broadband, Toshiba announced the Satellite® U405-ST550W laptop PC will be WiMAX enabled to offer users a rich, immersive mobile Internet experience over entire metropolitan areas. The initial WiMAX rollout is within the city of Baltimore.

“WiMAX wireless technology is built for the future,” said Jeff Barney, vice president and general manager, Toshiba America Information Systems, Inc., Digital Products Division. “With the incorporation of WiMAX technology into Toshiba laptops, we are confident we will provide users with the opportunity to explore a new era of wide spread connectivity and productivity.”

WiMAX broadband technology lays the foundation for next-generation wireless connectivity, and empowers Toshiba laptop PC users with the capability to access data-intensive applications, including media streaming, live video conferencing and mobile TV, through a broadband-speed wireless Internet connection with a geographical range that far exceeds what’s possible via a Wi-Fi™ wireless hotspot.

Enabling next-generation wireless capabilities, Intel Centrino 2-based Toshiba laptops are now shipping with the first-ever combined WiMAX/Wi-Fi module, formerly codenamed “Echo Peak,” as part of the Intel WiMAX/Wi-Fi Link 5050 Series.

“WiMAX is a game-changing and disruptive technology for a world that is rapidly shifting to an unwired, always connected Internet,” said Sean Maloney, executive vice president and chief sales and marketing officer of Intel Corporation. “Intel has worked closely with Toshiba to deliver one of the first and most innovative WiMAX-based laptops based on our Intel Core™2 processors, unwrapping a gateway to new 4G speed experiences.”

The Satellite U405-ST550W is available for purchase exclusively from Toshiba at www.ToshibaDirect.com. Complete product specifications for the Satellite U405-ST550W laptop are available at www.ToshibaDirect.com and www.explore.toshiba.com/U405.

To streamline the connectivity process, Lenovo have added WiMAX to their Access Connections app – part of the ThinkVantage Technologies suite – meaning available XOHM connections will be offered along with WiFi hotspots.  Lenovo will use Intel’s WiMAX/WiFi Link 5050 Series hardware, part of the Centrino 2 platform.

WiMAX-integrated models from Lenovo’s range will go on sale from today, priced from $720.  Lenovo also offer 3G notebooks, using both GSM HSDPA and CDMA EV-DO Rev.A technologies.

Press Release:

Upload This: Lenovo Adds WiMAX Wireless Connectivity to ThinkPad and IdeaPad Notebook PCs

Offered in Lenovo notebook PCs for large businesses, SMBs and consumers

RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, NC – October 8, 2008: Lenovo today announced it is bringing the latest high-speed wireless connectivity to its customers through a broad offering of WiMAX-enabled1 Lenovo ThinkPad and IdeaPad notebook PCs. Lenovo’s WiMAX lineup addresses all types of users, from business users needing ultraportability with the thin and light ThinkPad X301 notebook to mainstream business users with the ThinkPad T400 notebook to small-to-medium businesses with the ThinkPad SL300 and SL500 notebooks. WiMAX-enabled1 models of these notebooks are available immediately. The announcement comes at the launch celebration of the nation’s first next-generation 4G WiMAX wireless network today in Baltimore.

In addition, Lenovo will be expanding its notebook offerings with built-in WiMAX1 later this year to include models of the business-focused ThinkPad W500, W700, SL400 and X200 notebooks. Lenovo will also offer models of the IdeaPad Y530 notebook designed for consumers.

“With spill-resistant keyboards, ‘air-bag’ data protection, fingerprint readers, facial recognition technology and more, Lenovo has a proven track record as the industry leader in introducing new technologies in notebook PCs, said Stephen DiFranco, vice president, Americas Commercial and Consumer Channels, Lenovo. “By building mobile WiMAX into both our ThinkPad and IdeaPad notebook PC lines, we are helping our customers stay better connected, anywhere, anytime.”

Lenovo designed the notebooks for a simple and easy to use WiMAX experience. For example, with the ThinkPad notebooks, Lenovo added the ability for Access Connections, a part of the Lenovo suite of ThinkVantage Technologies, to recognize WiMAX networks. This helps users locate and securely connect to available wireless connections.

Although in its beginning stages, WiMAX has a number of potential uses such as serving as the primary wireless connection for consumers and businesses, enabling WiMAX devices to synch up for an enhanced communications experience and becoming the backup connectivity for companies. First rolling out in Baltimore, WiMAX coverage is expected to be operational in other cities – including Chicago and Washington, D.C. – in the coming months.

“WiMAX is changing the model of wireless communication,” said Bin Shen, vice president, Broadband, Sprint. “By working with industry leaders like Intel and Lenovo, we are committed to building the next-generation of mobile broadband services along with innovative computing devices that are designed for the best possible mobile WiMAX experience. We are rapidly building a nationwide WiMAX-based mobile broadband network, making it the next standard for accessible, affordable high speed wireless communications.”

The Intel® Centrino™ 2-based Lenovo ThinkPad and IdeaPad notebooks are shipping with the combined WiMAX/Wi-Fi module, formerly codenamed “Echo Peak,” as part of the Intel WiMAX/Wi-Fi Link 5050 Series.

“The 4G era is upon us, and Intel welcomes the host of innovative WiMAX solutions from Lenovo aligning with the inaugural U.S. network and its unique wireless speed and reach,” said Sean Maloney, executive vice president and chief sales and marketing officer, Intel. “Consumers and businesses today want faster, flexible and more pervasive wireless connections that match the power and battery life of Intel-based notebooks. With our Intel Core™ 2 processor-based notebooks, Baltimore residents have the power to experience this network whether in their home, office or on the go around town.”

With the announcement, Lenovo extends its menu of wireless connectivity options to include WiMAX, along with notebook models that include options for WWAN1, or 3G, through AT&T and Verizon, 1WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity as well as Ultra-Wideband functionality. These technologies offer customers choices of the latest ways for fast and convenient connectivity to fit their mobile lifestyle.

Select WiMAX-enabled1 ThinkPad and IdeaPad notebooks will be demonstrated at the WiMAX launch celebration today in Baltimore.

Pricing and Availability2

Pricing for the notebooks vary with WiMAX-enabled1 models starting at approximately $720. Select notebooks will be available starting immediately through www.lenovo.com and business partners.

Both notebooks have Intel Core 2 Duo T7350 processors, 3GB of RAM and 320GB 5,400rpm SATA hard-drives. Each have Intel integrated 4500HMHD graphics and DVD burners, together with 5-in-1 memory card readers.

As well as WiMAX, the Aspire notebooks support WiFi a/b/g/n; no sign of Bluetooth however. A webcam is integrated, as is Dolby Home Theater audio. OS in both cases is Windows Vista Premium.

The Acer Aspire 4930-6862 and Acer Aspire 6930-6771 will each be priced at $899.99, and should be available from today.

Press Release:

Acer Leads the Industry with the Introduction of the First Wireless 4G WiMAX-Enabled Notebooks for the U.S. Market

Aspire 4930-6862 and Aspire 6930-6771 unveiled at first U.S. WiMAX network launch in Baltimore

SAN JOSE, Calif. and BALTIMORE, October 8, 2008 – Acer America, part of the world’s third largest PC company (source: Gartner data, 2Q 2008), today unveiled its first WiMAX-enabled notebooks – Aspire 4930-6862 and Aspire 6930-6771 – in support of the nation’s first U.S. WiMAX wireless broadband network launched by XOHM in Baltimore. Demonstrating the company’s focus on delivering innovative technology solutions, the Aspire 4930-6862 and Aspire 6930-6771 are WiMAX-enabled Intel® Centrino 2-based notebooks with the first-ever combined WiMAX/Wi-Fi module, previously codenamed “Echo Peak,” part of the Intel WiMAX/Wi-Fi Link 5050 Series.

WiMAX is a flexible wireless broadband technology that has the ability to deliver rich data experiences for mobile users. With the potential to help bridge the digital divide, WiMAX has the capacity to unwire entire cities, including the most remote and poor communities across the globe. In the U.S., WiMAX offers a third broadband alternative to DSL or cable in the home, with the addition of broadband data and a voice network, which users can utilize on-the-go. WiMAX promises to be the highest performing mobile network in the United States with average downlink speeds of 2-4 Mbps and uplink rate of 1-2 Mbps.

“With the launch of WiMAX in the United States, Acer is building on its commitment to deliver first-to-market cutting-edge PC technology for mobile customers,” said Sumit Agnihotry, director of notebook product management for Acer America. “By leveraging Intel Centrino 2 mobile technology and the XOHM wireless network capabilities, users will have the availability for anytime, anywhere wireless connectivity. The Acer Aspire notebooks provide users with perfect combination of mobile and multimedia functionality.”

WiMAX subscribers in the Baltimore area can now enjoy free-range wireless connectivity utilizing the Aspire 4930-6862 and Aspire 6930-6771 notebook PCs, with new markets to follow in the coming months. The Aspire 4930-6862 is designed for users seeking portability and power in an eye-catching notebook PC. The 14-inch widescreen multimedia notebook offers portability, style and performance for demanding applications.

The Aspire 6930-6771 is a 16-inch widescreen dream multimedia machine for digital media with exceptional performance. The Aspire 6930-6771 brings a true cinematic experience to movies and gaming, with a 16:9 screen ratio. It also delivers amazing performance for demanding applications with Intel Centrino 2 and Core 2 Duo processor technology, 3GB of memory and a fast 320GB hard drive.

“Intel is pleased to see WiMAX-enabled notebooks available today from Acer that leverage the accessibility of this powerful 4G wireless network,” said Julie Coppernoll, director of marketing for WiMAX at Intel Corporation. “By offering these systems with the Intel WiMAX/Wi-Fi Link 505 Series module, residents of Baltimore have the ability to share and download videos and photos, as well as access social media networks seamlessly anywhere they go in the coverage area.”

Specifications for Aspire 4930-6862

· Intel® Centrino® 2 Processor Technology

· Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor T7350

(3GB L2 Cache | 2.0GHz | 106600MHz FSB)

· 14.1″ WXGA Acer CrystalBrite™ TFT LCD (1280 x 800)

· 3GB DDR 667MHz Memory

· Integrated Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 4500HMHD

· 320GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive

· Super Multi Double-Layer Drive

· 5-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader

· WiMAX Forum Certified™ WAN/802.11a/b/g/n

· Acer Crystal Eye Webcam

· Dolby Home Theater®

· Windows Vista® Premium

· MSRP $899.99

Specifications for Aspire 6930-6771

· Intel® Centrino® 2 Processor Technology

· Intel® Core™ 2 Duo Processor T7350

(3GB L2 Cache | 2.0GHz | 1066MHz FSB)

· 16″ WXGA Acer CrystalBrite™ TFT LCD (1366 x 768)

· 3GB DDR 667MHz Memory

· Integrated Intel® Graphics Media Accelerator 4500HMHD

· 320GB 5400RPM SATA Hard Drive

· Super Multi Double-Layer Drive

· 5-in-1 Digital Media Card Reader

· WiMAX Forum Certified™ WAN/802.11a/b/g/n

· Acer Crystal Eye Webcam

· Dolby Home Theater®

· Windows Vista® Premium

· MSRP $899.99

The Aspire 4930-6862 and Aspire 6930-6771 will be available to customers in Baltimore through Newegg.com and TigerDirect.com.

Another device is the ZTE MAX-206m2 desktop modem/router, which offers both WiMAX modem and gateway functionality.  WiMAX offers average downlink speeds of 2-4 Mbps and uplink rate of 1-2 Mbps.  XOHM will next roll out in Chicago, DC, Dallas, Fort Worth, Providence, Boston and Philadelphia over the coming months.

Speed tests in Baltimore last week found that WiMAX managed download speeds roughly double that of Verizon’s EV-DO, while upload speeds were over four-times higher.  As for why Baltimore was picked – something several people have asked us – Sprint are saying that it’s a combination of it being a challenging environment (with lots of water and different types of market), it being “an all American city” and, frankly, because it was ready to switch on there.

SlashGear is at the WiMAX launch event in Baltimore today, and will be bringing you all the news regarding the US’ first high-speed 4G network.   We’ll also have live video periodically through the day, which you can find at Vincent’s Qik channel: http://qik.com/android

Press Release:

Xohm, Intel and WiMAX Partners celebrate New 4G broadband era In Baltimore

· 4G mobile service provides XOHM customers a city-sized hotspot

· New Intel-based notebooks, other WiMAX-ready devices on roadmap

· XOHM retail push includes Web, area Mall kiosks and select Best Buy stores

· Symbolic “wire-cutting” event signifies Internet freedom and mobility

Baltimore – Oct. 8, 2008 – Catalysts of a new 4G wireless broadband era gathered today in Baltimore as Sprint (NYSE: S), Intel® and their WiMAX ecosystem partners celebrated the recent launch of XOHMTM mobile 4G service, and announced new access devices and retail strategies at an Inner Harbor event. The occasion marked a business model transformation for the wireless industry and innovation in the way mobile services are accessed and enjoyed.

XOHM, Sprint’s 4G business unit, is building the fastest most capable mobile broadband network available in the U.S. as compared to other national wireless carriers. “Customers looking for true mobile broadband speed at affordable prices and the Open Internet will find that in this new service,” said Dan Hesse, Sprint CEO.

XOHM and its WiMAX ecosystem will provide customers with new wireless data and web services by incorporating WiMAX capabilities in consumer electronic devices and unleashing the Internet from wires and place-based communications. “4G has rapidly gone from a mobility vision to service reality with the launch of XOHM service in Baltimore,” said Barry West, XOHM president. “Nothing has ignited the imagination of a cross section of industries and the partnership of an ecosystem the way WiMAX technology has. We are delighted with the reception we have received.”

“Access to the Internet with its rich multimedia and social media applications has become an essential and entertaining part of our everyday lives, and this network will ultimately redefine where, when and how people enjoy that mobile experience” said Sean Maloney, executive vice president and chief sales and marketing officer of Intel Corporation. “This is an historic milestone for the U.S. and residents of Baltimore. We can now set our sights on ensuring a smooth city-by-city build out of WiMAX 4G and relish in what will be an incredible amount of Internet-related innovation and greater consumer freedom from wires and what has been constricted and localized hot spots.”

WiMAX product availability

A hallmark of the XOHM ecosystem is an “embedded chipset” model in which manufacturers include WiMAX access within various computing, portable multimedia and Internet devices to make access more pervasive and to give customers more device choices. Intel is now shipping its first-ever combined WiMAX/Wi-Fi module, formerly code-named “Echo Peak,” as part of the Intel WiMAX/Wi-Fi Link 5050 Series that is an optional feature for Intel Centrino 2-based laptops. Several leading PC OEMs have announced plans to deliver Intel® Centrino® 2-based notebooks featuring the Intel Core™2 processor with WiMAX including Acer, Asus, Lenovo and Toshiba. Beginning today WiMAX-based Intel notebooks can be found online at Amazon.com and NewEgg.com. Dell, Panasonic, Samsung and Sony also plan to support WiMAX in their laptops starting in 2009.

XOHM service was launched in September in Baltimore with a modem, an Express aircard and attractive device and service offers. In October a XOHM USB dongle by ZTE will become available. Later this month, Nokia will sell the new pocket size Nokia N810 Internet tablet WiMAX edition, with widescreen display and QWERTY keyboard, at select independent retailers in Baltimore as well as online at www.nokiausa.com.

Sprint will be the first and only wireless carrier to launch a dual-mode 3G – 4G access device expected later in the fourth quarter. This device will extend Sprint’s mobile broadband leadership by offering the power of the NOW network — the largest 3G data network in the U.S. — with the fastest data speeds among all national carriers available on this new 4G network in Baltimore and in future markets.

XOHM is relying on a new distribution strategy that follows a consumer electronics model, allowing customers to buy devices independent of service. XOHM products will be initially available at six select Best Buy locations in the Baltimore market. XOHM sales kiosks are open in several Baltimore-area shopping malls. The retail strategy involves both direct and indirect channels, local independent retailers, door-to-door, web and telesales. XOHM customers will self-activate their devices from retail channels, be able to bundle multiple devices under one account and in some cases with one rate plan, have daily and monthly service plans without traditional long-term contracts and access enhanced location-based and other services through a XOHM web portal. Information, including the nearest XOHM sales outlet, can be found at www.xohm.com

Cord-cutting breaks with tradition

“Our lives extend well beyond the confines of home and office, and so should the Internet upon which we depend, said Barry West. “Access to it in new ways and more places will enhance the quality of digital life.” Signifying new Internet freedom, a symbolic ‘Ethernet cord-cutting’ occurred with gathered XOHM WiMAX partners Intel, Motorola, Nokia, Nokia Siemens Networks, Samsung, ZTE and ZyXEL, government officials and guests, indicative of the release of devices from wire-line ties that restrict mobility and innovation. Baltimore event guests had first hand experience with XOHM WiMAX devices in various mobile settings including harbor water taxis.

For Intel, the creation of a ground-up, mobile-customized wireless network plays a key role in the company’s effort to match broadband and Internet speed and usage with the company’s powerful yet energy-efficient line of Intel Core processors and Intel Centrino 2 mobile technology for laptops. WiMAX is also a major component in Intel’s goal to shift the industry and consumers to a “mobile Internet.” In addition to battery-saving new processors for laptop PCs, over the past six months, the company has introduced new chips for mobile Internet devices, simple netbooks, quad-core products and ultra slim and light laptops that all work best on a high-speed, wireless broadband network.

As announced earlier this year, Sprint expects to complete the anticipated combination of its XOHM WiMAX business assets with Clearwire to form a new company in the fourth quarter. This new company, to be called Clearwire, will continue to expedite the deployment of a nationwide mobile WiMAX network. Following the transaction, Sprint will be the only national wireless carrier to sell 4G services through an MVNO structure with the new Clearwire.