When it comes to mobile phones and technology, it seems that most people like to look ahead to the next big thing. As if we’re not content with what we already have in our pocket, we spend time reading rumors, and speculation, looking at leaked photos.
One might argue that 5G is the next big thing for smartphones. While it’s still in its infancy, it’s the tech that won’t be going anywhere soon. Moreover, it’s the sort of thing that wireless providers are going to he hitting us over the head with for the foreseeable future.
Rightfully, there’s a lot of confusion around 5G. Which carrier has it where? What phones work with the service? What sort of technology is used? How do rate plans work?
In this piece we will clear up the first two questions: where is it, and which phones support it? Specifically, we’ll tackle Verizon, and periodically update the post as things evolve.
Where is Verizon 5G available?
As of today, Verizon offers 5G Ultra Wideband speeds in the following cities:
Chicago
Minneapolis/St. Paul
Salt Lake City
Columbus
Cleveland
Denver
Phoenix
Charlotte
Dallas
Boise
Hoboken
Boston
Grand Rapids
Sioux Falls
Hampton Roads
Los Angeles
Providence
Washington DC
Atlanta
Detroit
Indianapolis
Spokane
Omaha
Houston
Sioux Falls
Greesnboro
Panama City
Memphis
Des Moines
Miami
New York City
NFL Stadiums
Verizon 5G is also available in more than one dozen NFL stadiums. Some locations are/were active as part of standard coverage. On the other hand, it may be the only place in a city where it’s offered.
NBA Arenas
In mid-October, Verizon added 5G to San Francisco’s Chase Center, Denver’s Pepsi Center and Phoenix’s Talking Stick Resort Arena. This is where the homes of the Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets and Phoenix Suns each play, respectively.
It’s worth noting that even while a city might show support for Verizon 5G, it doesn’t mean it’s pervasive. Coverage may be relegated to specific neighborhoods and areas; it may work outdoors but not indoors.
The same goes for stadiums and arenas. Because of its technology, 5G can be easily blocked so that means some seats or locations could see it where others may not.
According to Verizon, it plans to boost coverage to 30 cities by the end of 2019. Among the markets expected to have 5G are Charlotte, Cincinnati, Cleveland, Columbus, Detroit, Kansas City, Little Rock, Memphis, San Diego, and Salt Lake City.
Which Verizon phones support 5G?
When it comes to smartphones with support for Verizon 5G, the carrier has a number of options to choose from. Moreover, there are different phone makers and price points, making it easy to find something for everyone.
- Samsung Galaxy Note 10+ 5G – $1,299.99
- LG V50 ThinQ – $999.99
- Samsung Galaxy S10 5G – $1,299.99
- Motorola Moto Z4 (with 5G Moto Mod) – $499.99
Further reading
- Please don’t buy the 5G hype in 2019
- Verizon 5G now available in select NFL stadiums
- Samsung Galaxy S10 5G now available at Verizon
- Verizon taps LG V50 ThinQ 5G for June 20 launch
- Verizon kicks off 5G network one week early