Verizon Wireless will no longer be alone in the U.S. market for 1xRTT EV-DO (Evolution Data Optimized) wireless service, a CDMA-based 3G technology. Sprint said today its launching "Wireless High-Speed Data" via EV-DO in 200 markets (including 60 metropolitan areas) for completion 2006, enough to serve a potential market of 150 million people.

As a 3G service, EV-DO data travels at typical speeds of 400 to 700 kilobits per second (Kbps), and can theoretically achieve transmission rates of 2.4 megabits per second. Unlike Sprint, Verizon already offers EV-DO compatible handsets, including the new Samsung SCH-i730 Pocket PC Phone.

Service starts this month at major airports and the business districts in 34 markets. Like Verizon, Sprint plans to charge $80 per month for unlimited access, at least for business users, but consumer pricing could go as low as $40 per month depending on the location (and hopefully starting an EV-DO price war). Sprint will also sell Sierra Wireless and Novatel Wireless EV-DO cards for laptops at a discount.

Handsets won't be announced until the last quarter of 2005.