There’s good news today for those waiting for Sprint’s 4G LTE network to become active, as many people had wondered if Sprint’s unlimited data plans would still be available for LTE devices. It seems the answer is yes, which also opens up some intriguing questions about a possible LTE iPhone 5 for the Now Network.

Although Sprint cannot compete with other carriers such as AT&T and Verizon on sheer scale, one of the benefits that it offers to its customers that continues to be a key attraction for choosing Sprint as a carrier is its unlimited data plans. Previously when Sprint announced that it would cease further WiMAX developments and now focus on progressing with its 4G LTE network, it was understandable that plenty of subscribers wondered if those unlimited plans would still be available for the LTE network. The news that they will could be a key factor to Sprint’s success over the coming months.

Sprint confirmed the news to TechHog, as brought to our attention by BGR, saying that the LG Viper 4G LTE phone “will be available on Sprint’s network featuring unlimited data.” Although the rollout of the Sprint LTE network may be limited, at least initially, this certainly means that the carrier could poach a few unhappy customers from Verizon and AT&T, which offer 2GB and 5GB data plans. Equally as interesting is what this news could mean for Sprint and an LTE iPhone 5.

Although LTE has not yet been confirmed for the next iPhone it’s widely expected and there have been leaks and rumors to suggest the next iPhone will be LTE-equipped. We recently told how some analysts were predicting dire consequences for Sprint if an LTE iPhone comes out as its LTE network will still be far smaller than either AT&T’s or Verizon’s at that time, meaning many Sprint iPhone customers could jump ship to one of the big two.

However the news that Sprint will still be offering unlimited data plans even with an LTE iPhone could be the draw it needs to keep customers hanging on until its LTE network hits their regions. Also of course, in the regions where Sprint’s LTE network first rolls out then Sprint could lure some iPhone 5 customers away from AT&T or Verizon with its unlimited data plans. Interesting stuff then although we must remind you that an iPhone 5 with LTE connectivity is not yet official.

We’d like to hear your thoughts on the fact that Sprint will be retaining its unlimited data plans for devices using its 4G LTE network. Do you think this is a masterstroke by Sprint, or maybe you feel it’s a necessity to keep Sprint in the game?