What does 4g lte stand for.

4G LTE is comprised of two terms; 4G and LTE; 4th Generation, Long Term Evolution.

The first generation of cell phone technology, 1G, was launched in 1979. This analog system was upgraded to digital in 1991 with the introduction of commercially available 2G service.

3G mobile phone technology hit the market in 2001. It was an upgrade from 2G that allowed for greater data transfer rates. With 3G came more advanced audio and video capabilities. Between 2G and 3G were minor advancements that weren’t substantial enough to warrant a new generation. This middle period was known as 2.5G.

High-speed data transfer ushered in the 4G designation. The technology used to obtain 4th generation features vary between service providers.

WiMAX is used by Sprint’s prepaid devices under the Boost and Virgin Mobile brands.

HSPA+ is used by Orange France, O2 UK, AT&T Wireless and T-Mobile. (HSPA+ is arguably 3.5G, not 4G as it is an enhancement to standard 3G service, not a true next-stage evolution.)

LTE is used by AT&T Wireless and Verizon Wireless. Some networks switch technologies, like AT&T’s transfer from HSPA+ to LTE.