Ericsson and MetroPCS Communications have teamed up to launch MetroPCS’ Long Term Evolution (LTE) network in the Dallas/Fort Worth metropolitan area.  Ericsson is the primary supplier of infrastructure for MetroPCS and its 4G LTE networks.

MetroPCS is offering services on one device, the Samsung Craft, a dual-mode handset that operates on the carrier’s CDMA and LTE networks. The operator deployed LTE services in mid-September, using network equipment from Samsung Telecommunications America.

“Ericsson’s global experience and vision surrounding 4G LTE were significant reasons for selecting them as one of our key infrastructure partners.  Our companies have worked closely to rapidly build and launch a high-quality 4G LTE network in the Dallas/Fort Worth metropolitan area,” said Roger D. Linquist, president, CEO and chairman of the board of MetroPCS, in a statement. “As we continue to roll out 4G LTE networks in our remaining metropolitan areas in the remainder of 2010 and early 2011, we plan to leverage Ericsson’s technology leadership to bring our customers an exciting mobile broadband experience.”

The rollout will provide MetroPCS subscribers in the Dallas/Fort Worth metropolitan area with faster, more efficient transfers of data, video, images and more, in an efficient and cost-effective way. It will support MetroPCS’ world-class cost structure while offering innovative mobile broadband services. As part of the network build, Ericsson created a custom rapid rollout solution for MetroPCS that allows for substantial reuse of existing infrastructure.

Ericsson anticipates holding 25 percent of all essential patents for LTE, making it the largest patent holder in the industry. Ericsson launched the world’s first LTE networks in Norway and Sweden in late 2009 and early 2010.

As for network services, Ericsson has provided MetroPCS with LTE network design, optimization, engineering, implementation, integration and customer support services for the Dallas/Fort Worth metropolitan area.