Rogers Wireless is not the only carrier getting ready for 4G. Verizon announced its plans for the deployment of its 4G network during MWC this week. Up to 30 markets will be covered by the new LTE network by the end of 2010. Full continental U.S. and Hawaii coverage should be completed by 2015. Verizon will use the 700Mhz wireless spectrum that it won in an auction last year.
Verizon has already begun testing its network in a number of cities, including Minneapolis and New Jersey. Tests so far have recorded download peak speeds up to 60Gbps. Average speeds are expected to be lower but still significantly higher than users on EV-DO are used to.
Verizon will offer devices that are capable of handling both 4G and 3G to ensure that customers are able to continue using their devices where 4G coverage is not yet available. This will be particularly important early in the deployment when there will be more 3G coverage than 4G.