Although Comcast is currently the dominant internet provider in Baltimore, residents will soon be waking up to a choice of providers. As GovTech reports, Verizon is about to launch 5G home internet service for neighborhoods in East, West, and South Baltimore. Baltimore will join 1,700 cities to experience Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband. “The same company that has brought you FiOS is leveraging 5G to bring a new option, a new choice to customers,” said Verizon representative, Andrew Testa. “It takes the 5G service that’s outside the home and turns it into WiFi that powers all devices at home, without messy wires that come with a typical cable solution.”
Comcast had an announcement of its own, reporting that it would participate in the federal Affordable Connectivity Program. Eligible participants would qualify for the company’s Internet Essential Plus, a connection with no cost to subscribers once the federal program’s $30 per month credit is applied. The connection includes 100 Mbps download speeds, a cable modem and WiFi router.
“In general, having any additional choices is a good thing for consumers,” said Jason Hardebeck, director of the Mayor’s Office of Broadband and Digital Equity in Baltimore. However, Hardebeck added that he had concerns about affordability and questioned Verizon’s ability to deliver a competitive product, adding, “I’m not a huge fan of mobile data as a long-term solution for high-speed fixed internet in homes,” he said.
Testa countered with the assertion that Verizon’s millimeter-wave spectrum technology has been tested and proven “and it works.” Those choosing to sign on with Verizon will be charged by the month with no annual contracts or equipment fees. They will receive a plug-in router that powers phones, smart TVs, gaming consoles, tablets and other devices. Unlimited data service costs come at a cost of $50 a month for speeds of 85 to 300 megabits per second. Clients seeking a 1 gigabit per second connection can elect a $70 per month plan instead, Verizon added that it also has lower cost plans for eligible participants.
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