Verizon's Edge Computing Partnership With Amazon Is What 5G Is All About
America's largest mobile network recently announced a new joint effort with Amazon's (NASDAQ: AMZN) Web Services division. Verizon (NYSE: VZ) used AWS' re:Invent conference to reveal that its new 5G mobile service will be the first-ever available as a network edge computing service. It will initially be available in Chicago via AWS's new Wavelength service -- which enables developers to build and deploy applications via 5G -- but Verizon said it plans on expanding 5G edge to other cities in 2020.
5G has begun the long process of deployment across the U.S., with rivals AT&T, T-Mobile, and Sprint also working hard to win the race. Critics have been quick to pan Verizon's focus on the highest-frequency and fastest-speed segment of 5G, though. With millimeter wave technology -- the medium over which a mobile 5G network is delivered -- there is a trade-off between speed and coverage. For the everyday consumer, that has meant underwhelming service, with Verizon's 5G remaining mostly limited to city streets and parks as walls and other obstructions remain a challenge for the signal. For example, here's a link to Verizon's 5G coverage map around Chicago's Lincoln Park, showing the still-limited areas 5G can reach in the city.
Image source: Getty Images.
Source Fool.com
