Research in Motion has already said it will make its upcoming Playbook tablet compatible with Sprint’s high-speed 4G network, but now the company has also confirmed it’s working on versions that would work with Verizon’s and T-Mobile’s new spectrums.
In the world of 4G, here’s the technology that all the major carriers with current 4G networks are using:
Sprint – WiMax
Verizon – LTE
T-Mobile – HSPA+
RIM has already said it will be making a Wi-Fi version of the Playbook as well as one that works with WiMax, Sprint’s choice of 4G tech.
Now, at the Mobile World Congress, it was confirmed that LTE and HSPA+ versions are also in the works, which must mean that RIM plans to release a 4G Playbook for T-Mobile and Verizon.
“We are now building on the BlackBerry PlayBook’s many advantages with support for additional 4G networks that will allow enhanced business opportunities for carriers and developers and unparalleled mobile experiences for users,” said RIM Co-CEO Mike Lazaridis in a statement.
Sprint has been the leader in 4G so far so it makes sense to start there. But other carriers promise better, stronger, and more far-reaching 4G networks, though they’re just getting off the ground.
The first versions of the Playbook will be available in the next few months. The other 4G versions are planned for release in the second half of the year.
