AT&T today announced the completion of a project to enhance performance of its much-maligned 3G network in Manhattan and other areas of New York City.
As a result of this upgrade, customers in these areas are expected to experience improved 3G wireless voice and data connectivity and performance, especially during peak hours.
The network enhancement includes the addition of new layers of frequency, also known as "carriers," to more efficiently manage available spectrum and increase 3G capacity. The additions have been applied to nearly all cell sites in Manhattan and in other areas as needed throughout the Bronx, Queens and Brooklyn. The result is an increased allocation of network resources for AT&T's 3G network to support ever-growing demand for mobile broadband services.
The press release notes that the company has added an additional layer of 850 MHz spectrum coverage in these areas, increasing capacity and in-building performance. As a result, AT&T's internal measurement systems have shown two consecutive quarters of improving voice quality, with Manhattan in particular experiencing a 47% quarter-over-quarter improvement earlier this year as a result of the project.