Sprint announced that it is preparing to launch its WiMax mobile broadband service under the “Xohm” brand. Xohm is expected to become available initially in Baltimore, Chicago, and Washington, D.C. “Select” U.S. cities are expected to receive WiMax service later this year.

Sprint also said that OQO, Asustek and Zyxel are expected to roll out devices with embedded WiMax capability. Motorola already unveiled its first WiMax modems at the recent WiMax World tradeshow in Chicago.

"Sprint is delivering on its Open Internet vision with exciting and differentiated WiMax services," explained Barry West, president of Sprint's Xohm business unit, in a prepared statement. "The new service agreements and device commitments will help Xohm subscribers access, enjoy, store and secure personal digital and user-generated content while experiencing new device innovation."

West previously noted that Xohm will be offering “tiered” WiMax service plans, providing different connection speeds.