PhoneTalk

Last year, Verizon announced the launch of the company's 4G LTE network. By the end of 2010, the 4G LTE network was available in 38 markets (plus 60 airports) and could be used with two USB data modems - the LG VL600 and the Pantech UML 290. At CES this year, the company announced 10 more 4G LTE capable products that will be available this year including four cell phones, two laptops, two modems, and two tablets. You can learn more about the HTC Thunderbolt 4G LTE smartphone that's coming soon here. Additionally, the company plans to launch 4G LTE service in 140 more markets by the end of the year. You can click this link to see where Verizon’s 4G LTE service is currently available.

Here are a few more things you might want to know about Verizon's 4G LTE service. If you have more questions, leave a comment and we'll do our best to answer them.

So what does Verizon's 4G LTE data network offer?

Essentially, 4G LTE provides faster data speeds and reduces lag time or buffering so you get a much more responsive overall experience. For starters, average data rates per user are 5-12Mbps coming down to the device and 2-5Mbps sending data up to the network. That data connection delivery speed is 10 times faster than 3G. In real world terms, you can download a song in four seconds, upload a photo taken with a cell phone’s camera in 6 seconds, or play multi-user supported games on a cell phone. The service also supports simultaneous voice and data so you can be on a call and easily use the phone to look up movie times without ever losing a connection.

Can I use any 4G product with the service?

If you want to access Verizon’s 4G service you need a Verizon 4G LTE-capable product. While you’ll be able to use the Verizon 4G LTE product in the states on the company’s network, there’s no word yet on if you’ll be able to use it to roam onto other 4G LTE networks outside the United States.

What if I have a 4G LTE product and I’m not in a 4G market?

You’ll still be able to use it since the 4G LTE products support both 3G and 4G. If there isn’t a 4G network available the product will automatically roam onto the available 4G network.

Does 4G service cost extra and is there anything else I should know?

At this point, there is no word on if there will be an extra fee for 4G data service. Additionally, we should point out that the extra data speeds tend to effect battery life. We are still in the early phases of the launch and we’ll know more about the effects on battery life in the coming months once more products become available.

Topics: Phone Smarts Verizon Wireless Cell phone plans 4G Carriers