Sprint Announces Plans To Keep iDEN System

摘要

Sprint Nextel Corp. says that it plans to "retain and rejuvenate" its iDEN (integrated digital enhanced network) system that provides its Nextel-branded wireless services, and said it extended a long-term deal with Motorola, Inc., to provide handsets and network and infrastructure support for the network. The company's decision to keep the iDEN network, said Wall Street analysts who follow the company, means that Sprint Nextel likely has concluded its strategic review of the business and was unable to find a bidder offering a compelling price for the operation. Various news outlets had reported in recent months that the carrier was holding talks with other service providers and private investment firms regarding a possible sale of the iDEN network. During that review period, analysts said, Dan Hesse, Sprint Nextel's chief executive officer, was quoted as saying that "all options are on the table" for the iDEN network, which features push-to-talk functionality, among other attributes.