Cricket to Introduce Unlimited Wireless Broadband Service in Select Markets
SAN DIEGO – September 17, 2007 – Cricket Communications, Inc, the operating subsidiary of Leap Wireless International, (NASDAQ: LEAP), and a leading provider of unlimited wireless services, again sets the pace in offering cutting-edge wireless products and services at great value, by announcing the introductory launch of Cricket Wireless Internet Service in the Nashville, Albuquerque and Santa Fe markets. Similar to Cricket's unlimited mobile phone offering, the introduction will enable customers in these markets to have unlimited wireless internet service through their laptops for one low, flat rate with no long-term commitments or credit checks.
With the launch of this product, Leap again takes the lead by bringing low-cost broadband data capability to the unlimited wireless segment. Cricket Wireless Internet Service will broaden Cricket's customer appeal and continues the company's mission to meet the needs of customers who are under-served by traditional communications companies. The company intends to follow a disciplined approach to this launch, using strategic learning to determine the timing of additional market introductions.
"Once again we are proud to lead the industry by introducing an unlimited mobile broadband package that fits within the budgets of everyday consumers. Cricket Wireless Internet Service is a perfect compliment to our existing product portfolio," said Doug Hutcheson, president and chief executive officer for Cricket. "Our customers are used to being constantly connected; they don't want to be limited to certain spots around town, and want to pay one simple, affordable rate for the service. Cricket Wireless Internet Service takes our principle of flat-rate unlimited offerings to the next level and is consistent with our track record of providing services that bring great value to our customers."
Cricket will be utilizing the Kyocera Passport KPC650 modem, along with Smith Micro connection software, which are compatible with PC and Mac laptops with Windows 2000(R) or higher and Mac OS 10.4.10 or higher and a PCMCIA slot. The card and software will be sold as a package for $180, however, with mail-in and instant rebates, a customer can purchase the package for as low as $99. The monthly service plan ranges from $35 to $40. Existing Cricket mobile phone customers receive a $5 per month discount on wireless internet service plans. The card and software package and service are available immediately at Cricket retail stores and exclusive dealers in Albuquerque, Santa Fe and Nashville.
"Today, internet access is an important resource to everyone, not just the business traveler," said Steve Reifschneider, vice president, distribution for Cricket. "The quality of our wireless internet service, combined with Cricket's unlimited value proposition should provide a welcome option to a broad audience."
The introductory launch features a promotional theme of "But You Could," to highlight the many locations that Cricket customers can access the internet. Whether surfing the net while they shop, or posting from a park bench, Cricket Wireless Internet Service customers will have internet access virtually anywhere they go around town. You would not check your e-mail from the grocery store, but you could with Cricket Wireless Internet Service. For more information about Cricket Wireless Internet Service and "But You Could," visit www.butyoucould.com.
About Cricket®
Cricket is a simple, affordable wireless service offering consumers and local businesses a flat-rate unlimited service over the latest technology, high-quality, all-digital CDMA2000 1X and 1xEV-DO wireless network. Designed for customers whose basic and advanced wireless needs have not been met by traditional communications companies, Cricket is the pioneer of unlimited services with no long-term commitments or credit checks required. Cricket offers customers access to a variety of the latest devices and feature-rich mobile applications such as unlimited text, instant and picture messaging, Mobile Web, popular games, ringtones and wallpapers. For more information on Cricket, visit www.mycricket.com. Cricket is offered by Leap Wireless International, Inc., headquartered in San Diego, Calif. For more information on Leap, visit www.leapwireless.com.
