In what can be seen as MetroPCS Communications’ first big push into data services, the prepaid carrier Tuesday switched on its fourth-generation wireless network (4G LTE) in Las Vegas.

With the move, MetroPCS, which incidentally is the fifth-ranking carrier in the US, became the first country’s 4G LTE carrier. MetroPCS’ 4G launch comes ahead of Verizon Wireless, which plans turning on its own LTE network by
2010-end; and AT&T, which has set its own 4G ambitions for next year.

Interestingly, MetroPCS is following a unique 4G-related strategy, aiming to use 4G largely for advancing its mission of “wireless for all” – a mission under which it intends providing decent connectivity to the masses at very low monthly rates. As such, MetroPCS currently has no plans for using 4G for providing Internet hotspots or PC modems; it is chiefly focused on keeping rates low and plans unlimited.

Talking about the launch of MetroPCS’ 4G network and its 4G mission, Ed Chao, the carrier’s Senior VP for engineering and network operations, said: “We're creating a platform for the future, for the next 10 years and beyond.”

For its initial 4G offering, which looks fairly similar to 3G, MetroPCS is charging $55 or $60 a month from users using a $299-prices Samsung Craft feature phone that is capable of surfing the Web, streaming TV programs, and downloading music at 3G-like speeds.