
Verizon is apparently upgrading their network to XLTE even faster than they upgraded to LTE. They are already up to 300 total markets which have been upgraded to the newer technology. This only 200 short of their total of 500 LTE markets. Here's their full press release,
FORT WALTON BEACH, Fla., June 26, 2014 /PRNewswire/ — Verizon Wireless has expanded its newest technology — known as XLTE — in Fort Walton Beach to boost 4G LTE network capacity and enhance high-speed services for customers. Today, more than 300 of Verizon’s 4G LTE 500-plus markets have been enhanced with XLTE, with more scheduled to be completed by the end of the year.
XLTE utilizes Verizon’s AWS (Advanced Wireless Services) spectrum, which allows Verizon to deliver significantly increased capacity — at a minimum, doubling the capacity — over its high-speed 4G LTE network. This means more customers in high-traffic locations can access the company’s most advanced technology at the same time to send photos, download videos, surf the Internet and use other popular applications on their smartphones, tablets and other devices during times of peak usage.
“Fort Walton Beach customers are especially mobile and enthusiastic users of 4G LTE — sharing photos and video, downloading large files, and staying connected to enjoy a great wireless experience,” said Krista Bourne, president — Houston/Gulf Coast Region, Verizon Wireless. “With XLTE, Verizon Wireless continues to enhance its network to ensure the best possible experience and continue to deliver on our brand promise to customers.”
XLTE technology is particularly effective in enhancing wireless network performance in settings with a concentrated group of high-data demand customers, such as densely-populated areas, rush hour commutes, concert venues, sports arenas/stadiums and other large event locations.
First launched in December 2010, the Verizon 4G LTE network build is virtually complete, covering more than 500 markets nationwide and nearly 97 percent of the U.S. population. Verizon’s XLTE deployment is a major part of the company’s ongoing commitment to enhance network reliability and superiority. The company has invested more than $90 billion nationwide since 2000 to build and enhance its wireless network, and consistently earns top rankings from independent consumer reporting and testing institutions for network quality and performance.
For additional information on the Verizon 4G LTE network, XLTE coverage markets and more, visit America's Largest 4G LTE Network | Verizon Wireless - Verizon Wireless.