After an uproar caused by the Verizon nationwide 4G/LTE network outages and more protests against Verizon’s intention to effect a so called “convenience” fee, the embattled carrier takes a defensive position in explaining their mishaps. Under unprecedented pressure and a threat of action from the FCC, the “convenience” fee was dropped to great relief of Verizon customers. However, according to many comments of disgruntled users of the Verizon network, sporadic service drops still occur.

To justify the network’s downtime, Verizon issued a press release with an explanation about what has been going on, and did it as early as December 29, 2011. That is, a day or two after nationwide outages of Verizon data networks (both 4G/LTE and 3G) were reported. According to the carrier, these problems are happening because Verizon is a pioneer when it comes to LTE, and so there are a lot of problems that are unforeseen:

Why have these issues occurred with our 4GLTE Network? Each incident has been different from a technical standpoint. Our engineers have successfully diagnosed those past triggering events, and they have not re-occurred. We also work diligently to rectify technical problems in the Network before they affect any customers.

Our 3G and 1X Networks continue to reliably process calls, texts and data for customers with 3G devices and, when necessary, 4GLTE devices. It continues to perform at the high level that established it as the nation’s largest and most reliable 3G Network.

Another important statement in this Verizon press release is this:

Among the numerous measures we have taken or will take are: geographic segmentation, which enables us to isolate, contain and rectify network performance issues, and maintain service to the majority of customers when an issue does develop; and software fixes that we have developed, tested and applied regularly – and will continue to do so. Both will improve performance and reliability.

It’s good to know, but it also should be noted that so called “triggering events” being different in nature for many locations may not be eradicated on anytime soon. Additionally, a proposed “geographic segmentation” may equate to a total overhaul of the entire Verizon 4G/LTE network. Which also can’t be made overnight.

The post Verizon Explains Recent Outages: 4G/LTE Network Needs Overhaul? appeared first on Mobile Magazine.

Although Republic Wireless’ announcement of their $19 per month unlimited plan last month made everyone jump through the roof with joy at first, the rest of the deal seemed to be a downfall. But now, the upstart carrier has made another announcement which will allow you to fix your roof once again. From now on, the promised unlimited will be truly unlimited.

Just to refresh your memory, Republic Wireless came out last month and announced their $19 per month plan that promised unlimited talk, text, and data. The deal required a customer to buy the $199 LG Optimus S handset.

But the problem was that the handset was tweaked by the carrier in such a way that it uses Wi-Fi whenever possible for data and calls.

Access to 3G via the Sprint network was available but 3G usage had to be kept to a minimum. If a customer crossed the 3G usage limits the carrier could terminate the service. Therefore a customer could enjoy unlimited stuff, provided the bulk of it was via Wi-Fi.

But all that is changing now with the carrier’s announcement that they are eliminating all usage thresholds.

This is what Republic Wireless has to say:

“Rather than revising our fair use policy, we’ve decided not to have one at all. There will simply be no thresholds, and no risk of losing service. We’re doing away with all of that to keep all of the focus instead on where it really belongs: Creating a new wireless future together. A future that is simple to understand, unfettered to use, and an amazing value for all. That’s what we started down this path to do. That’s where the power of this vibrant community, dynamic Wi-Fi ecosystem and revolutionary technology should be invested. We’re all-in”.

This new move is certainly a big surprise, especially since the service is still in beta. But the phone will still be trying to use Wi-Fi whenever possible. But we don’t think there will be any problem with that. VoIP calls can be done quite well via Wi-Fi, and you will get 3G service for the incredibly low price.

Head here to check out the carrier’s full announcement.

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