How Does 4G LTE Compete with Free? |
Verizon 4G LTE is not initially for smartphones and the device lineup for the LTE service will include a single USB modem at launch provided by LG Electronics & Pantech Corp. The USB devices for laptops will sell for $100 after all rebates and a mandatory two-year contract. The USB devices will include both CDMA and LTE capabilities with the ability to seamlessly handoff when roaming from the LTE network to the CDMA network, but having to reconnect when going from CDMA to LTE.
Verizon Wireless has said their 4G network will provide downlink speeds of between 5-12 mbps using the carrier’s 700 MHz spectrum holdings. The average person doesn't realize yet that at these speeds LTE competes with free broadband WiFi that is typically faster. Will consumers spend the extra $600 - $900 per year for data services that are most often free over Wifi? The reality is Wifi hotspots vs LTE are growing 25X faster than LTE. If its free its me and if I have to pay now way!