Verizon Wireless said it updated the technical specifications for its LTE network, giving developers access to the new specs ahead of the company's LTE network rollout next year. The company will host a webcast next month to formally review the specs.
The updated specs address network access, SMS requirements and data retry test plans as well as other technical information, including the carrier's device approval process. Verizon plans to deploy LTE in 25 to 30 markets next year, and the first devices are expected to be USB modems and other data-connected devices; LTE smartphones are not expected to be widely introduced until 2011.
Verizon disclosed earlier this month that its LTE network will provide average data speeds of 5-12 Mbps for downloads and 2-5 Mbps for uploads. The company has so far not disclosed any details on pricing or possible data caps related to its LTE network.
Verizon's SMS requirements are notable since there are still divisions within the wireless industry over how best to transmit text messages and voice over LTE. Verizon, AT&T, Orange, Telefonica, TeliaSonera and Vodafone have thrown their support behind an initiative called One Voice, which favors an IMS-based approach. Another method, called Voice over LTE via Generic Access, or VoLGA, is supported by T-Mobile International.
For more:
- see this release
- see this Inquirer article
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