AT&T detailed its next-generation network rollout plans, joining the growing band of operators using the “4G” designator for its HSPA+ network. In a statement, it said that it “plans to accelerate its LTE network build,” to be largely complete by the end of 2013, with the launch of its first LTE services in “mid-2011.” It also trumpeted that it has “completed its deployment of HSPA+ to virtually 100 percent of its mobile broadband network, which enables 4G speeds when combined with Ethernet or fibre backhaul.” Randall Stephenson, chairman and CEO of AT&T (pictured), notes: “Recent tax law incentives, along with other policy developments, have allowed us to accelerate the capital investment – beginning in 2011 – to largely complete our LTE network build by the end of 2013.” The move means that AT&T will close the gap to Verizon Wireless in the LTE race, although Verizon has already debuted its first commercial LTE services. AT&T also highlighted that it is the only US operator to have committed to deploying both HSPA+ and LTE, with Verizon deploying LTE alongside its CDMA 3G network, and T-Mobile USA only having committed to HSPA+ for “4G” services.

Supporting its network plans, AT&T also says that it plans to introduce “20 4G devices by the end of the year, some on an exclusive basis,” although for its initial batch this 4G still refers to HSPA+. Products in the pipeline include Android-powered devices from Motorola, HTC and Samsung, and the company is also planning to offer two tablets, including its first LTE tablet, by mid-Summer. AT&T also trumpeted its efforts for app developers, stating that “in 2011, the company plans to expand its leadership in apps with new initiatives to speed collaboration with apps developers and further open AT&T’s network capabilities to the development community.” It and partners are investing US$70 million in three global innovation centres, with the first, in Dallas, set to open in the current quarter.