T-Mobile USA has expanded its 3G network offering to include Las Vegas, in addition to its initial sole deployment in the New York area. In a statement, the operator said it has invested more than US$37.5 million in infrastructure and spectrum to bring 3G services to the Las Vegas market. The company also said it plans to expand its 3G network to at least 20 additional markets by the end of 2008. Previous reports suggested that the operator will switch on some 27 markets on 1 October.

T-Mobile trails US 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. Today’s statement from T-Mobile suggests that users can currently only benefit from W-CDMA services, rather than faster HSPA technology, as the operator “plans to soon offer its first HSDPA device.” An IntoMobile report also claims the operator is expected to turn on its 3G network in Austin, Texas, today.