It’s called 3G or Third Generation, but what is really behind the term and acronym is one concept — speed.
Local and state AT&T officials and business leaders gathered Tuesday at Jim Strate Business Development Center for the rollout of AT&T’s 3G wireless network in Enid, which is one of only six communities in Oklahoma to have 3G capabilities so far.
The 3G wireless network offers consumers and businesses broadband-like speed and access to the latest interactive voice, video and data applications. AT&T officials said the network opens the door to a new era of mobile services, devices and feature-rich audio and video content. Through 3G, wireless users can stream video, surf the Internet at greater speed and share live video during a wireless call.
The technology actually started in Enid last week when consumers with 3G capable devices suddenly found their device had more applications.
Brian Gonterman, president of AT&T Oklahoma, was on hand for the launch announcement Tuesday.
He reminded those in attendance how far personal communications has come in the last decade. He said AT&T now serves twice the number of wireless subscribers as it does wire-line customers.
“Now, we pick up a cell phone and call anybody, anywhere, anyplace,” he said. “We are changing how we communicate, and it’s forced our company to change.”
Gonterman talked of when people will control home appliances through their wireless devices.
The 3G capability is important to Enid in a business development sense, according to Brent Kisling, Enid/Garfield County Development Alliance director. He said having this capability is a plus for businesses looking to locate in or work through the Enid area.
AT&T’s investment in Oklahoma’s wireless capabilities has topped more than $600 million. In addition to Enid, AT&T plans to launch its 3G mobile broadband network in Ada, Ardmore and Muskogee. AT&T’s 3G network is available now in nearly 350 U.S. metropolitan areas.