Verizon Wireless has just rolled out XLTE, its network upgrade that promises to boost peak data speeds and double the bandwidth for 4G LTE users. The update, which goes out to 44 states, adds capacity in high-demand areas. It also increases data speeds during busy periods such as rush hours and during big events like concerts or football games.
“The industry and tech world recognize this is a big deal, and we want consumers to know, too,” said Ken Dixon, chief marketing officer of Verizon Wireless, in a press release. “We continue to offer the very best network, bar none. Now, XLTE provides an even greater advantage to customers by doubling the 4G LTE bandwidth and providing faster peak speeds in cities coast to coast.”
For the update, Verizon took advantage of its Advanced Wireless Services (AWS) spectrum. Last March, the company announced that it will continue to add a second band of spectrum to provide for the demand on its LTE network. During that month, the company equipped more than 10,000 cell sites with AWS capability. It also turned on the feature in over 5,000 other cell sites.
So far, the network enhancement covers 27 XLTE-ready devices, including the iPhone 5S, the iPhone 5C, the Samsung Galaxy S5, the HTC One M8, and the Motorola Droid Mini. The smartphone models access both the 700 MHz and the AWS spectrum.
The speed boost is not exclusive to users with XLTE-ready devices. Since XLTE-ready phones use the AWS spectrum, there would be less congestion on the 700 MHz spectrum, thereby increasing speed for users.
The update covers states from New Hampshire to Oregon. However, not all cities are covered. If you want to check if your city is included, you can check out Verizon’s list of included cities here. If you’re not sure if your phone is XLTE-ready, you can also look for it on Verizon’s devices list.
