ConsumerWatch: What Makes 4G Wireless Networks Different
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS 5) – Wireless technology continues to change by leaps and bounds. One of latest advancements is 4G, which some mobile devices use. But not everyone knows what that means.
Tech analyst Chris Nicoll explains how a device running on a 4G network can download a lot faster then a phone on a 3G network. CBS 5 ConsumerWatch put it to the test and downloaded two of the clips on a 3G phone and on a 4G phone. The results, the phone with the 4G network downloaded the clip about three times faster.
Video chatting and connecting other devices to the internet is also possible said cell phone retailer Jen Rivers. "You can hook up between five to eight devices right now from your cell phone," she said. "So you can hook up a laptop on it, a Play Station 3."
Currently providers such as Verizon Wireless, Sprint and T-Mobile are touting their 4G networks. AT&T is next. Nicoll also said 4G networks reflect how consumers use cell phones today and wireless companies have no choice but to respond.
While Verizon has a 4G network, not all upcoming devices will run on it. For example, Apple's iPhone will only run on the carrier's 3G network. However, Verizon announced at last week's Consumer Electronics Show that they will have 10 devices, including four phones that will run on 4G.
(© 2011 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.)
