By Chuck Martin
Following the announcement that Verizon and Samsung are jointly launching a 5G smartphone in the first half of 2019, AT&T today announced it also will have a Samsung 5G phone in that same time frame.
AT&T already has installed 5G network equipment in 12 markets in the U.S. making available standards-based mobile 5G services this year. AT&T also is working with Samsung to create a manufacturing-focused 5G innovation zone as a testbed to use 5G for new robotic manufacturing capabilities, according to the company.
“5G is going to be about more than just a network. Customers will eventually be able to connect in near real-time to unforeseen possibilities,” stated David Christopher, president of AT&T Mobility and Entertainment. “Together with Samsung, we plan to bring the best in technology and innovation to our customers. The future we imagine with 5G is just beginning, and it is a great time to be a consumer.”
According to a report in Bloomberg, Apple does not plan to offer an iPhone that can use the new 5G speeds until at least 2020.