New Bill May Require Carriers To Clarify 4G Speeds
There’s still a lot of confusion when it comes to the exact definition of 4G and even I have to admit, a lot of it is over my head. I remember when Sprint was the first carrier to launch their 4G service here in the U.S. and it created quite a stir. Why? Well, even though Sprint was using a next generation 4G network (WiMax) download speeds were slower than even T-Mobile’s 3G speeds. This eventually lead to T-Mobile’s market team rebranding their 3G network as “4G” and some people were saying that was misleading.
So how does one classify 4G? Is it the technology used for the network? Or is it raw download speeds? Well, I guess it depends who you ask. This is one of the reasons why some state senators are attempting to pass the Next Generation Wireless Disclosure Act. It’s a bill introduced today that will force carriers to be upfront with consumers regarding their 4G network. This includes: download speeds, reliability, coverage and they technology their using for their service.
I’ve always thought that 4G is anything that’s at least double than what I get with normal 3G but I guess I was being naive. According to the International Telecommunication Union (global wireless standards-setting organization) no current U.S. carrier is technically capable of 4G speeds. To be true 4G, a network must be capable of download speeds of 100Mbps. That’s like, 10 times faster than my home cable internet!
I, for one, am all in favor of this bill because it seems to be a murky subject for many consumers. Especially at a time when carriers are putting more and more emphasis on their 4G networks. Consumers need to make informed decisions before signing their life away for 2 years.
[Via CNN]