Clearwire Rover Puck and Rover Stick devices, pre-paid 4G service launched

Clearwire taps GenY consumers with Rover prepaid broadband

Clearwire has expanded its WiMax mobile data portfolio with the launch of a new prepaid brand, Rover.

As of now, Rover offers two devices: the Rover Puck portable Wi-Fi router and the Rover Stick USB modem, which will run on Clearwire’s existing Clear service network.

The Rover Puck is priced at $149.99, whereas the Rover Stick is available for $99.99.

The Rover Puck and the Rover Stick promise simpler pricing plans than those available on Clear. A month of data service will cost consumers $50, a week will be $20 and a day of use will cost $5 without contracts or data caps. Users of the Rover services can purchase a “re-up” PIN code or a Rover Re-up card (available in $20 and $50 denominations). No credit card is required to purchase access.

Users can connect a maximum of eight devices through the Rover Puck. It promises speeds of 3 to 6 Mbps, with occasional boosts of over 10 Mbps. It can be plugged into laptops, netbooks, tablets, smartphone, PSP(R) systems, game consoles, and Wi-Fi enabled digital cameras. The Puck easily fits into a purse or backpack.

The Rover Stick, on the other hand, is a 4GB modem that can be connected to a notebook, laptop, or desktop for 4G broadband access. It can run on all the major operating systems, including Mac OS X, Windows XP, Vista, and Windows 7.
There are some limitations to the use of Rover Puck and Rover Stick. Unlike some Clearwire plans that run on Sprint’s 3G network, these Rover devices will function only on Clearwire’s WiMax 4G network. Also, Rover plans will not be available for those using existing Clear-branded client devices.

The company aims to woo GenY consumers – between the ages of 18 and 24 – who are looking to buy their first own mobile broadband access, with its Rover Puck and Rover Stick. Clearwire Chief Commercial Officer Michael Sievert feels the pay-as-you-go, no-contract benefit of the Rover services will be ideal for the youth population that shies away from commitment.

Clearwire also feels that since the Rover plans have no cap on the amount of data download users, “digitally addicted” youngsters will find it easy on the pocket. The Rover Puck and the Rover Stick also can be used with VoIP (voice over Internet Protocol) services, another plus.

The Rover Puck and Rover Stick currently come with a 14-day “no-hassle” return policy and a bonus two days of free service, so users can test whether the 4G-speed devices actually measure up to the company’s promises or not.

Currently, Clearservice is offering the Rover Puck and the Rover Stick along with the services in 49 markets. The services and devices can be purchased on the Internet (www.rover.com), through Best Buy, Clear stores or through independent wireless dealers (Houston and St. Louis). The products will be launched in other markets later. The payment options include payment with gift cards (for online transactions), cash (at a retail store) or through a credit or debit card.