Sprint, T-Mobile To Sell 4G Tablets in 2011

Sprint Nextel Corp. and T-Mobile USA are planning to sell tablet computers in 2011. That isn't surprising, given the momentum tablets seem to have, coupled with the launch of new fourth-generation networks that, for the moment, do not offer the handset diversity of 3G networks and arguably are designed for PC and other devices more than traditional voice and texting.

The longer term issue will be the extent to which 4G networks enable new application and revenue models 3G has not. The focus on tablets, though partly practical (suppliers have not yet begun to produce 4G smartphones in great variety), might also suggest the ways 4G could underpin a new wave of development based on connected devices more than traditional smartphones.

A tablet would round out Sprint's portfolio of 4G wireless products, which is crucial to sustaining momentum as its rivals ramp up their own next-generation wireless efforts. It could also potentially offer Sprint a unique halo product to rally behind following the successful launch of two 4G smartphones, which has spurred the company's turnaround, the Wall Street Journal says.

UPDATE: Sprint, T-Mobile To Sell 4G Tablets Next Year - WSJ.com