MetroPCS has launched the first LTE network in the US, in Las Vegas, as well as the world's first LTE mobile phone, the Samsung Craft. The mobile operator is offering the dual-mode LTE/CDMA phone for USD 299 with service plans including unlimited calls, texts and web access at USD 55 or 60 per month. The USD 60 plan also includes access to the new MetroStudio, run by RealNetworks and offering a range of music and ringtone downloads and access to on-demand video from the likes of NBC Universal, BET and Univision. The phone features a 3.3-inch Amoled touch screen, slide-out qwerty keyboard, 3.2 megapixel camera and Wi-Fi and comes with a 2GB microSD card loaded with the film Star Trek. The LTE network was also built with Samsung equipment and covers most of MetroPCS' footprint in Las Vegas. The operator plans to expand LTE coverage to other markets later this year and in 2011.
