FreedomPop Launches 4G Service in Public Beta

FreedomPop, the U.S. 4G provider using a "freemium" pricing model, has launched its public beta offering, though initially only as a personal Wi-Fi hotspot service. The "sleeves" for iPhones and iPods will be available in a month or two. 

FreedomPop is offering 500 megabytes of free monthly 4G service provided by Clearwire on two devices, a wireless hotspot and a USB stick. Both devices will technically be available for free, though you’ll have to put down a refundable security deposit of $49 for the USB stick and $89 for the hotspot.

FreedomPop is also offering monthly plans starting at $17.99 for 2 gigabytes of data and $28.99 for 4GB.