Ever try to upload a video onto YouTube? From the territory, sometimes that process, for a short five to 10 minute video, takes up to three hours, even with the highest speed wireless.
But no more: along with a new look, Choice Communications debuted this week a 4G data network that general manager Tony Shepherd said is about 10 times faster than what the company offered before, finally bringing the territory into the technology present. Step into any location — now including a new store at Nisky Center that opened Saturday — and you’ll be able to choose from three different packages, ranging from $45 to $75 a month.
Choice will buy back its old equipment for $50, which will be put toward a new box, or credited to the customer’s account, according to employees. The new Nisky Center location was flooded Saturday with customers eager to sign up and bring the new slick black boxes home with them.
Customers were also clamoring to sign up for Choice’s new cell phone service, which ranges up to $50 a month for unlimited service — including long distance, texting and internet. Shepherd said the company’s network includes the territory, Puerto Rico and the states, and what’s more, there’s no contract required: just pick and pay for the phone, spend about 10 minutes registering and you’re good to go. Pay as you go plans are also offered.
Choice’s "Muchness" campaign — unveiled gradually over the past few weeks — has included a number of events in both districts, including Saturday’s grand opening on St. Thomas and celebrations on St. Croix, which included the opening of a new store in Peter’s Rest. Customers can also enter to win a 2010 Nissan Cubes, which have recently been spotted around the territory sporting the company’s new orange and green motif. The first of the cars will be given away at the end of next month, and the others before the end of the year.
Fans of Rock City can also stop in at Choice stores and get free advance tickets to a concert being organized by the company, which will also feature Xpress Band and Denise "Saucy Baby" Belfon from Trinidad. On the back of the tickets is an entry form that can be turned in at the concert for a chance to win a free data phone and a year’s worth of 4G service.
Wrapping up the events is a St. Thomas-St. John Chamber of Commerce’s Business After Hours event at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, where Choice will premier the power of the 4G network to the business community from its new Nisky Center store.
