Verizon outlines Long Term Evolution plans

Verizon Wireless is taking the lead in 4G LTE deployment

Verizon Wireless has released new details about its planned Long Term Evolution (LTE) wireless broadband network.

The company said that trials in Boston and Seattle suggested that the network could reach download speeds of up to 50Mbit/s and upload speeds of nearly 25Mbit/s.

Verizon also provided a timetable for a nationwide rollout which could reach up to 100 million people throughout the US, and provide speeds comparable to cable-based broadband.

The announcement is part of Verizon's three-year plan outlined at the 2009 Mobile World Congress in Barcelona.

"Our LTE rollout plan positions Verizon Wireless to be a global leader in 4G LTE deployment," said Verizon Wireless vice president and chief technology officer Tony Melone.

"As device makers, manufacturers and others around the world begin to introduce newer and faster products to take advantage of these incredible new speeds, Verizon Wireless will be positioned to offer our customers new and exciting products on the nation's first 4G LTE network."