Ting launches open beta for its GSM network

Ting's GSM network, which it announced late last year, has officially entered into an open beta. Previously, customers could test the network out on an invite-only basis.

If an open beta for a network sounds odd, Ting explained the benefits of the tests it has done so far:

We've been hard at work on Ting on a GSM network. We've sent out invitations in the thousands with a majority of people taking us up on the offer. We've used the feedback we've received from our intrepid testers to further refine the activation process and the way we confirm that devices are compatible. Another thing we've been working on is making the switch from the CDMA to the GSM network easy for those that want to move their service or one of their active numbers from one to the other.

Previously, Ting was only available as a CDMA carrier that ran on Sprint's network. The decision to launch a GSM network now allows customers using practically any phone, so long as it's unlocked, to make a switch to the carrier.

To get started, you'll need to have an already unlocked GSM phone. From there, you can purchase a Ting GSM X1 SIM card and activate it with your device. Just bear in mind that this is a beta, so you're bound to experience some issues here and there.

Source: Ting