A method and a wireless transmit/receive unit perform a handoff to a target base station having enhanced capabilities. A dual mode manager triggers a capabilities query for information regarding enhanced capability of the target base station, wherein the enhanced capability includes transmission in accordance with a high speed data mode. A generator sends the query to a server connected to the Internet via a first base station not having enhanced capability. The dual mode manager receives from the server via the first base station information regarding the enhanced capability. A handoff to the target base station is initiated by the dual mode manager on a condition that the received information indicates that the target base station has enhanced capability. The dual mode manager deactivates a first mode of operation for communication with the first base station and activates the high speed data mode for communication with the target base station.