US Cellular to fire up LTE at more than 1200 sites in 2014

Fifth-place US carrier US Cellular (yes, there is a fifth place behind the all-swallowing big four) plans to dramatically expand their LTE footprint this year by the number of 1200 sites. They'll be switching on new 4G services in 13 states, and by the end of the year plan to cover 93% of their customers. For a full list of where to expect LTE by year's end, check out the press release after the break.

Check out the current US Cellular coverage map.

Press release:

U.S. Cellular Announces New Markets to Receive 4G LTE Service in 2014

CHICAGO (April 8, 2014) – U.S. Cellular (NYSE: USM), in conjunction with its partner, King Street Wireless, announced that it will be adding more than 1,200 4G LTE cell sites in 2014 and expanding existing 4G LTE service in 13 states. By the end of 2014, more than 93 percent of U.S. Cellular customers will have access to 4G LTE speeds that are up to 10 times faster than 3G.

This latest U.S. Cellular network expansion adds vast 4G LTE coverage in Kansas, Missouri, Nebraska, Oklahoma and North Carolina and also brings additional 4G LTE service to areas in Iowa, Illinois, Maine, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia and Wisconsin. Some of the new cities that will receive 4G LTE speeds are Oklahoma City, Emporia, Kan., and areas of Door County, Wis.

"We are a community carrier that is focused on small and mid-size cities, and we provide a network that works where our customers live, work and play," said Michael S. Irizarry, executive vice president and chief technology officer. "This network expansion brings fast 4G LTE speeds to areas that other carriers ignore, and we will continue to provide our customers the best-in-class network, devices and technology that gives them access to experiences that enrich their lives."

4G LTE speeds provide an enhanced wireless experience with fast web browsing, smooth video streaming, video chatting and speedy app downloads. U.S. Cellular keeps customers connected with devices for a variety of needs, from 4G LTE smartphones, tablets, and hotspots to vehicle monitoring and home phone solutions.

U.S. Cellular customers get more compared to other wireless carriers, including a rewards program that recognizes loyalty, great customer service and a network that covers you wherever you want to go. For more information about the 4G LTE experience, visit uscellular.com/4G.

Derek Kessler

Derek Kessler is Special Projects Manager for Mobile Nations. He's been writing about tech since 2009, has far more phones than is considered humane, still carries a torch for Palm (the old one), and got a Tesla because it was the biggest gadget he could find. You can follow him on Twitter at @derekakessler.