What is Clearwire?

Clearwire is a provider of simple, portable, fast and reliable wireless Internet access and services.

Clearwire offers a WiMAX-class solution, utilizing next-generation, non-line-of-sight wireless technology.

Founded by Craig McCaw in October 2003, Clearwire is a privately held company and is headquartered in Kirkland, Washington.

What is Clearwire service?

Clearwire provides a simple, “off-the-shelf” wireless broadband Internet solution. Establishing Clearwire service involves a plug-and-play installation — no need for a technician to configure additional hardware and no need for software to be loaded onto computers to make it work. Customers can establish an Internet connection in minutes.

Customers use Clearwire to connect to the Internet using licensed spectrum, thus eliminating the confines of traditional cable or phone wiring. The tower equipment transmits radio signals from a base site to a small, wireless modem the size of a paperback book, which easily connects a user’s computer to the Internet.

The portable Clearwire service can be moved from place-to-place inside Clearwire’s coverage area, which allows customers to use the service throughout their home, office or favorite coffee house.

Clearwire launched its VoIP (voice over internet protocol) service on April 10, 2006. The company currently offers Clearwire Internet Phone Service in 13 markets across the United States.

Is Clearwire similar to a Wi-Fi hot spot?

Clearwire’s technology goes beyond what the typical Wi-Fi hot spot provides. Clearwire either owns or leases the spectrum over which it broadcasts its signal, providing a high-quality connection not subject to interference, and a secure portal not available when using the Internet in a hot spot. 

And unlike hot spots, which offer Internet access in specific, pre-determined locations, Clearwire provides service anywhere inside its market coverage footprint.  The end result is a portable, secure, high-speed experience. 

How many subscribers use Clearwire service in the United States and abroad?

206,000 customers as of December 2006.

Where is Clearwire available?

Clearwire launched its first commercial market in Jacksonville, Florida on August 26, 2004.

Clearwire currently operates in 33 markets across the U.S. in Alaska, California, Florida, Hawaii, Idaho, Minnesota, Nevada, North Carolina, Oregon, Texas, Washington and Wisconsin, and plans to offer commercial service in 34 markets by the end of 2006. 

Clearwire currently offers service in more than 370 cities and towns. By the end of 2006, Clearwire will be available in more than 375 cities and towns. Our website features a map of our coverage: www.clearwire.com.

Where does Clearwire typically build markets?

Clearwire operates in markets of all sizes and shapes, including urban, suburban and rural areas.

In what future markets can we expect to see Clearwire?

While we do not comment on specific deployment plans, we will continue to roll out our networks in select U.S. and international markets. We have publicly stated that we will roll out Raleigh, North Carolina and Chico, California by the end of 2006.

Does Clearwire only target underserved markets?

Cable and DSL alternatives are available in most Clearwire markets.

How fast is Clearwire’s service?

In the US Clearwire offers up to 1.5 Mbps download and up to 256 kbps upload speeds.

In other markets such as Belgium, Clearwire offers up to 3Mbps download and up to 256kps upload speeds.

How much does Clearwire service cost?

Costs may vary by market and are highly competitive with DSL and cable modem services. Our service plans range from $29.99 – $49.99.  Visit https://www.clearwire.com/order_entry/web/prequal.php to find rates for specific service areas.

What is Clearwire's approach to mobile WiMAX?

At WiMAX World on October 11, 2006, Intel and Clearwire unveiled the first step in creating one of North America’s first mobile WiMAX trials, with service to be provided by Clearwire.

On July 5, 2006, Clearwire, Intel and Motorola announced that they are collaborating to accelerate the development and deployment of mobile WiMAX across the United States.

Clearwire is working with Intel and Motorola on both the standards process and the development and evolution of network infrastructure that will allow us to deliver services that are fast, reliable and mobile.

Clearwire believes the agreements significantly advance Clearwire’s vision for providing seamless broadband access choices – including fixed, portable and mobile.

We expect the collaborative effort and evolution to a mobile WiMAX technology will provide the benefits of a standards-based platform. This effort will bring enhanced services and more differentiated value-added solutions to our customers, while we continue to provide the simple, high-speed, portable broadband access Clearwire customers enjoy today.

How to Buy Clearwire?

To purchase, call 1-888-CLEARWIRE or go to www.clearwire.com. Customers can also buy Clearwire at Best Buy and Circuit City stores, located in each of the Clearwire markets, as well as at Clearwire authorized representatives, Clearwire retail locations and mall kiosks.