1. 3G provides accelerated data speeds and simultaneous voice and data capabilities for an amazing wireless voice and data experience. http://www.wireless.att.com/learn/why/technology/3g-umts.jsp?WT.srch=1
2. AT&T
2.1. Surf the wireless Internet faster and significantly lower your wait for page loads
2.2. Disclaimer: 3G network not available in all areas
2.3. Disclaimer: Referenced speeds require an HSDPA 3.6Mbps / HSUPA capable device with Receive Diversity and/or Equalizer. BroadbandConnect speed claims based on our network tests without compression using 3MB data files. 3G devices not enabled with HSUPA support typical upload speeds of 220-320kbps based on our network tests without compression using 500KB data files for upload. Actual throughput speed varies.
3. Verizon
3.1. Verizon Wireless is also making headway towards getting its 4G network in place, but they're going a different route than Sprint by selecting LTE technology
3.2. their 4G LTE network will be roughly similar to its current 3G network in terms of size.
3.3. their network has seen peek download speeds of around 50Mbps, which is huge, but expect real-life download speeds of probably around 10Mbps
3.3.1. http://www.techreviewsource.com/content/view/411/1/
3.4. The question is what else do you use your phone for? If you are into email, web surfing and using applications, network speed might be something to consider. Obviously the importance of speed will depend how much time you spend using these non-phone talking functions. Diana Turner
3.4.1. http://www.helium.com/items/1762064-att-v-verizon
3.4.2. In this instance, speed is a bonus that AT&T holds over Verizon. Diana Turner
3.4.2.1. http://www.helium.com/items/1762064-att-v-verizon
3.4.2.2. The company has invested more than $55 billion since its inception to increase the wireless voice and data coverage of its national network and to add new 3G services like Mobile Broadband and V CAST. As the carrier with America's largest and most reliable wireless network, Verizon Wireless cell sites in New England provide 3G wireless data connectivity.
3.4.2.2.1. http://sports.tmcnet.com/news/2010/03/09/4664576.htm
4. T-Mobile
4.1. T-Mobile claims an HSPA+ upgrade will make its 3G network the nation's fastest by the end of 2010 by tripling speeds.
4.1.1. http://tinyurl.com/tmobile3gfast
4.2. AT&T, Verizon using 4G LTE technology and Sprint tied up rolling out the first 4G WiMax, T-Mobile will upgrade its entire 3G network to HSPA+ technology by end of 2010, making it the fastest 3G footprint in the United States.
4.2.1. http://tinyurl.com/tmobile3gfast