MetroPCS Communications, a Dallas-based wireless communication service provider, announced the launch of MetroFlash, a service that allows consumers to use their Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA

) handsets on MetroPCS’s network.
MetroFlash allows consumers to switch between carriers without replacing their CDMA handsets. The new facility, with its low cost and flat rate unlimited wireless service, allows customers to choose a cost-effective and flexible wireless option.
“Offering consumers the ability to join MetroPCS with their existing handset makes switching carriers easier – and more cost efficient – than ever,” said Tom Keys, chief operating officer of MetroPCS, in a statement.
MetroFlash service offers talk-all-you-want unlimited flat-rate wireless service in five basic plans that range from $30 to $50 per month. MetroPCS offers the service without asking for a signed contract from the customers, in other words, without verifying the credit records or asking for a security deposit.
“Not since number portability have consumers been offered such a convenient option in switching service providers. With the rising cost of gas and food, consumers are looking for ways to reduce expenses and the launch of MetroFlash, along with our flat-rate, unlimited low cost service plans, makes MetroPCS a more affordable wireless option,” added Keys.
MetroFlash service includes features such as voice-mail, caller ID, call waiting, three-way calling, text and picture messaging, push e-mail, mobile Internet browsing, mobile instant messaging, and Metro411 (a voice-activated, premium directory assistance service). MetroPCS also offers unlimited family plans for convenient rates.
“Customers using MetroFlash will receive a free month of service, plus unlimited local, long distance, voice-mail and text messaging for $40 a month and pay a $30 fee. The service will be available at all MetroPCS company owned stores and select authorized dealers in all MetroPCS markets, excluding Las Vegas and Shreveport/Bossier City,” the company said.
MetroPCS currently has about 4.4 million subscribers nationwide. “MetroPCS is among the first cellular service providers to deploy an all-digital network based on third generation

infrastructure and phones,” the company said.
The company has access to licenses in 14 of the top 25 metropolitan areas in the United States, including New York, Boston, Dallas, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco.
Rajani Baburajan is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To read more of Rajani’s articles, please visit her columnist page.
Don’t forget to check out TMCnet’s White Paper Library, which provides a selection of in-depth information on relevant topics affecting the IP
Communications industry. The library offers white papers, case studies and other documents which are free to registered users. Today’s featured white paper is Fixed Service Strategies for Mobile Network Operators, brought to you by Comverse (News - Alert).
Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) | X |
| There are two basic types of CDMA-Code Division Multiple Access used in Wi-Fi-Wireless Fidelity or 802.11. Each Wi-Fi system uses the same set of frequencies in the 83.5 MHz of available frequencies ...more |
Internet Protocol (IP) | X |
| IP stands for Internet Protocol, a data-networking protocol developed throughout the 1980s. It is the established standard protocol for transmitting and receiving data
in packets over the Internet. I...more |
Third Generation (3G) | X |
| A variety of cellular phone specifications collectively known as Third Generation mobile technology. 3G networks do not operate in the same frequency spectrum as 2G. Examples of 3G wireless specs incl...more |