AT&T Set to Roll Out Nationwide 3G MicroCell Availability Beginning Next Month

AT&T today announced that next month it will begin a nationwide rollout of its 3G MicroCell service that allows users to route their cellular phone calls around the house onto their broadband Internet connection as a solution for spotty cellular coverage. Supporting both voice and data services, the 3G MicroCell device carries a price tag of $149.99, although AT&T is offering rebates to users signing up for monthly MicroCell service plans to augment their existing cellular plans or switching to the company's DSL or U-Verse broadband service.

AT&T today announced that AT&T 3G MicroCell plans to begin its national roll out beginning in mid April, with new markets activating in cities across the continental U.S. for the next several months. AT&T 3G MicroCell is an innovative solution that allows residential customers to route wireless phone calls and data connections (or sessions) across a home broadband connection. This solution is designed to benefit customers who live in homes that have coverage impediments that consistently interrupt wireless spectrum, such as dense wall and roof construction or unfavorable terrain.

Customers have the option of using minutes from their normal cellular phone plan or signing up for a $19.99/month companion plan that allows unlimited calling over the customer's MicroCell without utilizing their cellular minute allotment.

AT&T's 3G MicroCell began service in the Charlotte, North Carolina region last September and has expanded to other test markets in recent months as the company has geared up for full nationwide availability. AT&T, currently the sole iPhone carrier in the U.S., has received a significant amount of criticism over its network performance, particularly in high-density areas such as New York City and San Francisco. The company has, however, seen improved performance in recent months putting it on par or ahead of other carriers in many major markets.