People can now use their laptops to receive high-speed wireless data connections in more places as Cingular Wireless begins offering the first national unlimited EDGE / WiFi data plan.

Cingular customers can now receive unlimited high-speed data connections at nearly 4,000 WiFi hotspots or when accessing the company's expanded EDGE (Enhanced Data Rates for Global Evolution) coverage area - domestically and internationally.

"Our customers can now have the best of both worlds, whether they're in a hot spot or not," said Abhi Ingle, executive director of Cingular's Business Markets Group. "We're giving customers a single solution for high-speed data access without having to search out specific locations."

Through roaming agreements with other wireless carriers, Cingular recently increased its EDGE service area to cover more than 250 million people and now makes the service available in 13,000 cities and towns and in areas along nearly 40,000 miles of highways. Internationally, customers can access EDGE in nearly two dozen countries and GPRS (General Packet Radio Service) service in about 80 countries where EDGE is not currently available.

When using a laptop and EDGE PC modem card, customers can receive average data speeds up to 135kbps with bursts to 200kbps. Cingular's EDGE service gives customers access to the fastest national wireless data network in the United States.

Cingular's WiFi connections are provided through agreements with SBC companies, Wayport Inc., Concourse Communications, StayOnline and through its owned-and-operated WiFi networks.

Cingular currently has WiFi networks at several airports including Denver International, Philadelphia International, Raleigh-Durham International, Seattle-Tacoma International and at select Amtrak stations in the Northeast, including those in New York City, Philadelphia, Baltimore, Wilmington, Del., Providence and the Boston area.

Customers who want unlimited access to both WiFi and EDGE services can select a monthly plan for $99.98 ($79.99 EDGE + $19.99 WiFi). Customers purchasing a two year contract with the unlimited plan qualify for a FREE Edge PC modem card ($249.99 value). Other data plans with different term commitments and equipment pricing are also available to help customers select the right plan for their business.

Cingular customers can purchase an EDGE PC modem card, the EDGE / WiFi data plan and many other data services through its Business Markets Group. In addition, customers can also purchase an EDGE PC modem card at Cingular retail stores.