Milledgeville’s technological capabilities took another leap Friday, with the launch of AT&T’s new 3G wireless network.

In proving their commitment to being in the places where their customers live and work, AT&T spokeswoman Monique McKenzie said between 2006 and 2008, AT&T has invested $3.4 billion in building out wireless broadband Internet infrastructure throughout the State of Georgia.

The launch of Milledgeville’s 3G network is part of a 350-square mile buildout of wireless broadband capabilities in Middle Georgia.

“This year AT&T has launched new markets in Augusta, Macon, Warner Robins, Toccoa, Perry, Hartwell and Milledgeville,” McKenzie said. “The demand for wireless broadband is growing. With everyone texting, sharing photos, movies and music via mobile devices, there is a greater need for faster [Internet] speeds; more and more, now, 3G is essential.”

Regional Manager for AT&T executive and legislative affairs in Georgia, Stan Shepherd told an audience at a network launch event Friday that it is especially exciting to bring 3G wireless broadband to a college community like Milledgeville and put smart phone technology in students’ hands.

“It’s exciting to see what they can do with [that technology],” he said.

The faster Internet speeds offered by AT&T’s 3G network give users the opportunity to upload and download content at the same time they are utilizing their mobile device to talk on the telephone.

AT&T Middle Georgia Regional Sales Manager Matt Marshall said the spread of 3G Internet connectivity will help step the exchange of user-created content up a notch as the faster Internet connection can facilitate live video streaming via cell phone through AT&T’s Videoshare application.

“Now you’re able to talk and share data, including video, all at the same time,” he said. “That’s something no one else can do.”

To learn more about AT&T’s 3G network, visit their retail location on North Columbia Street.