T-Mobile USA is ramping up its 3G HSPA network deployment. Following a May launch in New York City, and a Las Vegas launch two weeks ago, Unstrung reports that the operator has also switched on the regions of San Antonio, Austin and Houston. “T-Mobile USA is planning to launch additional 3G markets throughout the year and to end the year with 3G coverage in 20 to 25 core markets,” an operator spokesperson told Unstrung. Meanwhile, a TelecomTiger report claims the operator has also commenced high-speed voice and data services in the cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, both in Minnesota. According to various blogs, other cities lined up for deployment by the end of September include San Diego, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Sacramento, Portland, Seattle and San Francisco.

T-Mobile – the fourth-largest operator in the US – trails rivals Verizon, AT&T and Sprint Nextel in offering 3G services because it previously lacked the necessary licenses from US regulator FCC. However, in 2006 the operator spent nearly US$4.2 billion for 120 Advanced Wireless Services licenses and announced plans to spend US$2.66 billion on upgrading its network. Its 3G deployment is linked to reports suggesting the operator will be the first worldwide to support HTC’s Android-based ‘Dream’ smartphone, touted for launch later this year.