MetroPCS Chooses Navteq For MapsMetroPCS Chooses Navteq For Maps

MetroPCS said it would be using Navteq for its mapping purposes, and this could be a signal that the prepaid provider is looking to provide location-based services in the near future.

The carrier is primarily known for its no-contract, unlimited calling plans that cost about $40 a month. It has been making moves to provide additional services, including landing its first BlackBerry. The Navteq partnership could help it launch more location-relevant services.

MetroPCS will use Navteq's digital maps for point-of-interest searching, routing functionality, and determining where a user is located. The carrier uses Navteq maps for its MetroNavigator services, which is a GPS-enabled application that can provide turn-by-turn driving directions and maps.

"As wireless location services are evolving, high-quality map data and content are becoming an increasingly essential value-add for consumers," Navteq VP George Filley said in a statement. "Navteq maps are an integral component to MetroPCS's services and we are pleased that they have put their trust in us as a preferred map provider."

Moving forward, MetroPCS said Navteq's accurate, rich, and relevant content can be the foundation for a slate of new location-based services. This effort could be boosted with a faster mobile broadband network, and MetroPCS said it would be rolling out 4G networks based on Long Term Evolution technology. MetroPCS has not given a firm date for deployment, but it will wait until after Verizon Wireless rolls out its LTE network. Prepaid providers like MetroPCS, Cricket, Virgin Mobile, and Boost Mobile have seen a marked increase of subscribers during the global economic slowdown, and these companies are eyeing multiple strategies to maintain those customers. MetroPCS may be looking to integrate new location-based services, and others are introducing pink-slip protection plans or implementing low-priced unlimited plans that include text, mobile Web, and mobile e-mail. Low-risk, low-cost technologies help IT ensure that staffers on the road spend more time on work and less on workarounds. Learn more about how to better arm your remote workers (registration required).