Mobile data users in Bozeman could see a speed boost in the coming weeks, as Verizon Wireless has announced it will roll out its 4G LTE network in a few spots around the state.
The cities that will soon see 4G LTE coverage include Bozeman, Kalispell and Missoula. Specifically in Bozeman, the service will cover the MSU campus and along Interstate 90 from exits 298 to 313. Some portion of Four Corners also appears to be covered, though I am waiting to clarify that with Verizon, as the press release is not clear. The city of Livingston is included as well.
In the press release, Verizon said the new network should allow for data speeds of 5-12 megabits per second on the download and 2-5 megabits per second on the upload.
In general, 4G refers to the fourth generation of mobile communications standards. It is the successor to 3G technology. LTE stands for “long term evolution.” The terms are often used by cellphone marketers with little concern for the actual network technologies, making it difficult to determine just what 4G and all the rest of the industry’s alphabet soup means.
I have a voicemail in with the Verizon press contact, so I hope to clear up a few things and find out what this means for people with smartphones in the Bozeman area. Stay tuned.