Sprint Nextel Corp. announced that its 4G LTE network build is progressing in 28 additional cities within its nationwide 3G footprint. Work has begun on the 4G LTE network in the following additional areas: Albany, GA.

Anderson, SC. Bay City, MI, Branson, MO, Bremerton/Silverdale, WA, Columbus, GA, Columbus, MS, Decatur, AL, Florence/Muscle Shoals, AL, Gadsden, AL, Gaffney, SC, Gettysburg, PA, Glasgow, KY, Homosassa Springs, FL, Hot Springs, AR, Lake City, FL, Lake Havasu City/Kingman, AZ, Midland, MI, Nacogdoches, TX, Opelousas/Eunice, LA, Oxford, MS, Paris, TX, Pittsfield, MA, Saginaw, MI, Spartanburg, SC, The Villages, FL, Waycross, GA, Winona, MN. During the pre-launch phase, Sprint customers with capable devices may begin to see 4G LTE coverage in these areas and are welcome to use the network even before it officially launches.

Through Network Vision, voice quality is enhanced and Sprint customers in upgraded areas are seeing better performance on their smartphones, mobile broadband connection cards and mobile hotspots when using the Sprint 4G LTE and 3G networks. Customers can expect to experience the following performance improvements once the 4G LTE and 3G upgrades come to their areas: Faster data speeds that enable instant Web access for news updates, HD viewing and game-playing, quicker video downloads and clear video chats. Better signal strength when making a call or using the Web.

Fewer dropped calls for peace of mind when talking to friends, family or colleagues. Improved voice quality and less static or background noise when making phone calls. The company plans to announce commercial availability of 4G LTE in these cities in the coming months, followed by continued enhancements in coverage, performance and reliability.

Ultimately, the company's 4G LTE coverage is expected to largely match the existing nationwide 3G footprint.