Verizon’s 4G LTE (Long Term Evolution) network will launch Sunday with download speeds of 7-12 MBs on average. This makes the USB modems, and eventually smartphones, tablets and hotspots, very attractive to current 3G users. Verizon’s new 4G network will run on its recently purchased 700 MHz of spectrum unlike it’s 3G Network which runs primarily on the 1900 MHz PCS Spectrum. This is a great opportunity to spread – out data users over a wider range of spectrum.
One of the biggest complaints that consumers have regarding AT&T’s iPhone service and the AT&T Network is that they experience much lower data speeds, dropped calls, and buffering in data sessions. This is primarily due to the limitations of the AT&T network and amount of spectrum that they have to accommodate the large number of heavy data iPhone users. This is most noticeable in heavy data use areas such as cities like New York and San Francisco.
All indicators point to a Verizon Wireless iPhone sometime in early 2011, although neither Apple or Verizon will confirm the rumors. Verizon has increased staffing in stores and call centers according to recent reports. Apple and Verizon have also added technical support staff in their call centers. Apple is moving forward to open their new data center in North Carolina. And now, Verizon will be heavily promoting their new 4G Network. Verizon has been watching AT&T over the past 4 years and hopefully has learned by AT&T’s mistakes.
In order to avoid the data deluge of congestion an iPhone could bring to it’s network, Verizon is now about to redistribute it’s data consumers over 2 technologies (EV-DO Rev A and LTE) on two different frequencies (1900 MHz and the wide-open 700 MHz). This could free up a great deal of spectrum for a 3G version of the iPhone , a 4G version, or a combination of both with the goal of providing a user experience more in line with what an Apple or Verizon customer would expect from their new phone.
So the questions still remain – if Verizon will actually carry the device and if so, when? My personal guess is that they will eventually carry the iPhone and possibly as early as Q1 of 2011. However, the iPhone may have to share the stage with other 4G Smartphones and Tablets. Verizon is expected to present upcoming 4G devices as early as January at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas. Only time will tell and millions of current and prospective iPhone customers continue to hold their collective breath in anticipation.
