SoftBank has given Sprint the go-ahead to begin its network improvement plan. The nation's third-largest carrier plans to densify its LTE 4G network to improve coverage and capacity. "Sprint has developed an approved network plan in partnership with SoftBank that will allow for a cost-effective network build on an accelerated timeline," said the company in a statement provided to Fierce Wireless. Last month, Sprint CEO Marcelo Claure predicted the company would have the number one or number two network in the country within two years. Sprint's Next Generation Network plan it to use small cells and macro cells to fill in its coverage gaps. The company is already evaluating proposals from telecommunication gear suppliers. Sprint has not said how many new cells it will install, but it did commit to offering voice over LTE, and said WiFi will also play a key role in its network plan. Sprint's coverage trails that of larger competitors AT&T and Verizon Wireless.


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