Leap Wireless International continues to go broadband, thanks to an EV-DO network upgrade. The company has launched Cricket Wireless Internet Service in the Nashville, Tenn., and Albuquerque and Santa Fe, N.M. markets. Customers in these markets will have unlimited wireless Internet service for a flat rate with no long-term commitments or credit checks, said the company.

    “Once again we are proud to lead the industry by introducing an unlimited mobile broadband package that fits within the budgets of everyday consumers. Cricket Wireless Internet Service is a perfect compliment to our existing product portfolio,” said Doug Hutcheson, president and CEO of Leap. “Cricket Wireless Internet Service takes our principle of flat-rate unlimited offerings to the next level and is consistent with our track record of providing services that bring great value to our customers.”

    The Cricket service utilizes the Kyocera Passport KPC650 modem, along with Smith Micro connection software, which are compatible with PC and Mac laptops with Windows 2000 or higher and Mac OS 10.4.10 or higher and a PCMCIA slot. The card and software will be sold as a package for $180. Mail-in and instant rebates are also available. The monthly service plan ranges from $35 to $40. Existing Cricket mobile phone customers will receive a $5 per month discount on wireless Internet service plans.

    The launch features a promotional theme of “But You Could,” to highlight the multiple locations from which Cricket customers can access the Internet.