Scarlet has offered wireless broadband services in Curacao since 2001, and in June 2005 launched its Scarlet One branded personal broadband service using the Navini Ripwave MX technology. In the past 6 months, Scarlet has aggressively expanded its broadband network to keep up with accelerating customer demand for reliable broadband service that is portable, easy to install, and does not require a fixed line phone. Expansion will continue throughout 2007 and will be able to serve 10,000 customers.
Mobile WiMAX is the new emerging global standard for broadband wireless and is being introduced into the market in phases. Navini Networks is on the leading edge of rolling out Mobile WiMAX solutions, says the company.
With a software upgrade, Scarlet's current network will be 802.16e standard (Wave 1) compliant. The system will come with Wave 2 beamforming capability via Navini's trademark Smart WiMAX. Navini's Smart WiMAX is the innovative combination of mobile WiMAX with Navini's patented Smart Beamforming & beamformed MIMO, which enhances range and throughput performance.
Scarlet's CEO, Eric E. Stakland commented, "We believe the effects of convergence of broadband and mobility will be substantial in the marketplace within two years. In our view, a broadband network with Mobile WiMAX technology will be a stronger delivery platform for future services than cellular will ever be."
"We are delighted to provide Scarlet with the technology to deliver these exciting new services," said Roger Dorf, Navini's president and CEO. "As more and more consumers experience personal broadband, the demand will continue to grow. Personal broadband is irresistible."
Scarlet is introducing new product and service offerings in early 2007. The new MyScarlet VoIP service includes a choice of unlimited calling to Netherlands (fixed) or U.S./Canada at no additional cost for Scarlet One subscribers. Stakland explained, "Our enhanced density of base stations, particularly in Curacao's business centers, will support the increasing use of Scarlet One in businesses and the use of PC cards for portable broadband in laptops. Our intention is to enable business customers who are out of their office to remain connected online wherever they are."
Scarlet also offers prepaid Personal Broadband, tailored to dial-up customers wanting higher performance without paying more. Robbert Willemsen, manager of Scarlet's sales teams and its dial-up services, commented, "Our dial-up customers average 40 to 50 guilders (USD $22-$28) per month in phone charges, with many exceeding 100 guilders (USD $55) per month in addition to their monthly subscription fees. For customers using the Internet for less than an hour per day, Prepaid Scarlet One will save them money while doubling their connection speed."
