Verizon's 4G Network Is Powerful Enough For Our Enormous Media Appetite

Until now, bandwidth-hungry mobile apps often needed Wi-Fi to back up their connection. Now Verizon's Long-Term Evolution (LTE) is setting devices free.

Verizon is broadcasting its new 4G network at 700 megahertz, its own segment of the wireless spectrum. This space lets even large high-def files transmit quickly in two directions, perfect for video conferences. Currently in 38 cities, covering about one third of the population, LTE towers are expected to provide nationwide broadband by 2013.

You won't need to hunt for Wi-Fi to video-chat or be at home to game with your friends, because LTE devices can send and receive live video anywhere there's service. Plus, LTE's speed may trounce other 4G wireless—and in some cases best home broadband.