Summary
1. While LTE handsets will not be available overnight, many analysts are looking at it in the context of 3G development. 2. Verizon Wireless will be aggressively deploying its new wireless network regardless of the timing of handset availability. 3. There was really no “build it and they will come philosophy” by any service provider with 3G in Europe or in the US.
Analysis
“[D]emand for handsets” may occur sooner because “the surrounding landscape [is likely to be] ready to support them” in less time than in the past. In fact, Verizon Wireless seems determined to build this 4G network in an unprecedented amount of time – just as it did with FiOS on the wireline side. And “carrier network infrastructure...[should not] take [as much] time to build out” because it will be working on 700MHz spectrum. The year 2012 as to when devices “will start to pick up volume” could turn out to be conservative.
Usually, it is wise to temper enthusiasm when it comes to new technology. It often takes much longer than the initial prognostications. However, Verizon’s LTE deployment could easily be the aberration of the next decade. And whereas in the past, the handset environment would drive any kind of video application, this time the network will be the catalyst.
