Sprint has reached 4G LTE agreements with 12 rural and regional network carriers under the Rural Roaming Preferred Program, intended to reduce roaming costs for carriers and to improve competition. This will broaden Sprint’s coverage footprint by giving its customers the ability to roam on regional and rural carriers’ networks and vice-verse.
These agreements seek to increase wireless competition in US as smaller players within the segment will now have low cost access to Sprint's nationwide 4G LTE network while customers benefit from 4G LTE connectivity and better device choices. The development is part of the initiative announced in March by Sprint, Competitive Carriers Association (CCA) and the NetAmerica Alliance.
As part of the program, Sprint is also working with CCA and rural carriers to pursue participation in the Sprint device and infrastructure ecosystem to help them reduce network build costs and gain earlier access to the latest devices at lower prices through increased scale.
“These agreements demonstrate Sprint’s commitment to provide better coverage, a faster network and a wider selection of lower-cost wireless devices to all customers, regardless of where they live. Through unique and flexible deals with carriers like C Spire and nTelos we are providing an enhanced 4G LTE experience for Sprint customers and increasing wireless choice and competition across rural America.”
- Michael C. Schwartz, Senior Vice President of Corporate and Business Development, Sprint
“Sprint’s commitment to creating an open ecosystem provides smaller rural and regional carriers with a clear pathway to 4G LTE technologies and devices they need to remain competitive. Consumers can benefit from faster speeds and access to the device of their choosing as a result of these agreements. By working together through the CCA Rural Roaming Preferred Program or the NetAmerica Alliance program, we are seeking an open ecosystem in which all CCA members can thrive. Every carrier should look to take advantage of this significant opportunity that not only provides a roadmap to 4G, but allows them to remain independent and competitive in the wireless ecosystem. I am delighted so many CCA members are participating in the program and encourage every rural and regional carrier to consider participating.”
- Steven K. Berry, President & CEO. CCA
