Phoenix among first cities getting access to Verizon’s 5G phone network
Apr 25, 2019, 6:00 PM | Updated: Apr 26, 2019, 8:54 am
PHOENIX – Arizona’s capital city is on the fast track for the latest in high-speed cellphone service.
Verizon announced Thursday that Phoenix was among 20 U.S. cities selected to receive its 5G Ultra Wideband mobility service by the end of the year.
The next-generation technology, which promises more speed, power and capacity than existing networks, recently debuted in Chicago and Minneapolis. No exact dates were revealed for the next wave of cities.
“Verizon’s 5G launch will strengthen Arizona’s wireless infrastructure and help keep Arizona at the forefront of technological innovation,” Gov. Doug Ducey, who in 2017 signed legislation to streamline the deployment of 5G, said in a press release.
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To take advantage of the new network, customers will have to purchase a 5G-compatible cellphone.
Verizon also announced the start of preorders for Samsung’s first 5G device, the Galaxy S10 5G, with prices starting at $1,299.99 or 24 monthly payments of $54.16.
The Galaxy S10 5G will be available in stores May 16.
Verizon is offering new and existing customers up to $450 for trading in an eligible smartphone as well as other enticements to switch to 5G.
“The Galaxy S10 5G on Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network will give our customers access to incredible speeds and the latest and greatest streaming, augmented-reality, gaming, and consumer and business applications that bring us into a future powered by 5G,” Ronan Dunne, executive vice president and president of Verizon’s consumer group, said in a press release.
Verizon said it would announce another 10 cities by the end of the year.
