John, RE: Nextel Coverage,
The Nextel 1997 10-K says that, as of 31 December, Nextel digital service covered 75 of the top 100 U.S. markets, corresponding to 65% of the U.S. population (which was about 270 Million a few years ago). The 1998 Q1 report says that for that period, Nextel increased digital markets to 79 of 100 top U.S. markets. Since the additional 4% is probably less dense that the initial markets, guess that end-of-Q1 coverage corresponds to about 67%.
(Interestingly, last number I heard a few years ago, cable TV was available to about 67% of the U.S. households. A comparison with the all the years cable has been deploying demonstrates the power of wireless).
I don't know the corresponding digital coverage numbers for Sprint, AT&T, etc. Also, whether those companies own outright or are in partnering / leasing agreements. Anyone that could point me to sources for that information, I'd appreciate it.
Rob, Long Nextel |
