Those that are tied to their mobile broadband will tell you that you simply can’t have too much speed when it comes to mobile Web browsing and communications. So even though 3G may still have the ring of a brand-spanking-new, high-tech term, many are itching pretty badly for 4G.
The fact is 4G is already available, only to a very limited extent. Sprint currently has its WiMax network up in running in 27 different markets, offering service to 30 million people. Those markets include Dallas, Chicago, Portland and Philadelphia. Of course, since there’s no mobile phone yet compatible with 4G networks, people in those markets are limited to other devices such as mobile Wi-Fi hotspots.
Last week, Sprint announced that the first 4G-capable handset will be available by this summer. The company also announced plans to quadruple the reach of its network to 120 million people by adding several cities this year.
Earlier this week, Sprint clarified that Boston, Denver, Kansas City, Houston, Minneapolis, New York, San Francisco and Washington, D.C will all get 4G coverage by the end of 2010. The company also added that a few additional cities should make it to that list before the year is out.
Verizon is expected to launch 4G in 25 to 30 markets by the end of 2010. On Friday, Verizon clarified its own 4G plans in an interview with Network World. Verizon Wireless CTO Tony Melone stated that its LTE network will double to about 50 to 60 markets 15 months after it’s launched, so sometime in early- or mid-2012. Unlike Sprint, Verizon did not specify which locations will be included in its first and second surge of 4G, but it did state that it plans to bring 4G coverage to areas that currently lack 3G.
Verizon’s Network will offer download speeds up to 5 to 12 Mbps. Sprint lists its download speeds at 3 to 10 Mbps.
Via GadgetCrave , FierceWireless and MobileCrunch
