Sprint Throws Shade at AT&T’s 5G ‘First’ Claim

Sprint executives are not impressed by AT&T’s recent standards-based mobile 5G launch, stating that their company’s own planned network launch that is forthcoming by mid-year is the first “broad mobile 5G deployment.” That statement was made by Sprint CEO Michele Combes, who, at a press conference at this week’s MWC Barcelona event, said that the carrier will cover more than 1,000 square miles and millions of people with its initial mobile 5G launch plans. “When we say we are launching in nine markets, it’s for millions of people,” Combes said. “We will be the first to have a broad mobile 5G deployment.” And, indeed, Sprint is putting some coverage number behind its 5G launch plans. The carrier will cover nearly 30 square miles and 1 million people in Manhattan as part of its New York City launch and 230 square miles in the greater Dallas area. Sprint CTO John Saw had previously explained that its Phoenix launch will cover more than 226 square miles and 2 million people. “This is not just hot spots,” he said.