T-Mobile User will Have "Cell-to-WiFi service" (UMA) Soon
We reported sometime ago the Cell-to-WiFi that T-Mobile started as a pilot in Seatle, WA. The service basically helps users located in a “cell-signal challenged” areas such home office, or large office building to seamlessly switch from cell signal to WiFi signal when available (home WiFi, HotSpots, etc..)
Finally, according to sources cited by the Wall Street Journal T-Mobile is ready to launch its cell-to-WiFi service this summer, . The service, initially called “T-Mobile at Home,” could be rolled out nationwide as early as mid-June.
The service, often referred to as dual-mode or Unlicensed Mobile Access (UMA), allows a mobile phone to seamlessly switch from cell towers to available WiFi networks when the user comes within range. This would then allow the user to make and receive phone calls via VoIP over the WiFi network—using the same phone number and handset—thereby saving precious cell plan minutes for when there are no WiFi networks available. Other benefits include reduced load on cell networks, increased bandwidth for media streaming and web surfing, and improved call quality over WiFi.
Customers in T-Mobile’s test markets have paid a flat fee of $20 per month on top of their regular service plan fees to use the service, with an additional $5 per line on the account.
Customers who choose to use the service won’t be forced to use a special router with the service, either. Although there will be one available from T-Mobile for “free” after rebate, according to the WSJ, customers will be able to use existing wireless routers if they so choose. They can also use the service with over 8,000 of T-Mobile’s WiFi Hotspots offered at nationwide Starbucks, hotels, and airports.
[Thanks Scott F. Via Arstechnica]
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