Verizon will charge an additional $10 a month per smartphone for subscribers who want to add 5G speeds to their devices. Only customers of Verizon's unlimited-data plans “will be able to access the 5G service and they must have a compatible device.” There are also limits to the initial footprint of Verizon's network, even in the first cities where it will be offered. Verizon's service “will be centered in downtown areas of its launch cities, particularly around landmarks such as the Art Institute of Chicago and U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis.”
Cable 5G transport shows promise and complexity
As cable providers are preparing to provide transport services for 5G, Crown Castle is expanding its fiber network, while Verizon and AT&T appear to be establishing their own fiber-based transport wherever possible. The industry is exploring how its WiFi coverage and emerging role...
2019 is looking good for the tower industry
Tower companies may continue to see revenues increase from network build-outs. According to Wall Street analysts, "The good times appear set to continue for the nation’s tower companies – including Crown Castle, SBA Communications and American Tower…" Some facto...
Snyder signs bills to ease shift to 5G wireless technology
Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder signed legislation to "establish statewide regulations and fee limits for the installation of a dense network of ‘small cells’ on telephone poles, traffic signals and other infrastructure." The measures "are backed by carriers such as Verizon ...
AT&T expands fiber to a dozen more metros — boosting its 5G efforts
AT&T "unveiled 12 new metropolitan areas for its fiber service part of a push that should help the next-generation of wireless networks, as well." The company said more cities will get ultra-high-speed broadband options, bringing its total to 84 in the U.S.
FCC approves plan for freeing up more 5G spectrum
The FCC "has voted unanimously on service rule changes as part of a framework for freeing up spectrum…it's latest effort to boost the deployment of 5G, IoT and more, and the largest swath of contiguous spectrum currently available in the millimeter-wave bands."
Small cell rollout has Mitchell planners in action
The Mitchell Planning Commission in Mitchell, SD discussed "what the future for cellular coverage in the city will look like, expecting the growth of small cell and 5G technology in the future." The commission discussed a proposed ordinance to regulate small cell facilities. The u...