Verizon has introduced a new version of its 5G fixed wireless access (FWA) service, targeting budget-conscious consumers with minimal internet usage. Known as Verizon Home Internet Lite (VHI), this service is designed for households located outside the company’s traditional Fios broadband footprint, which has been limited to older, slower options like DSL or satellite.
VHI is tailored for customers who typically require lower bandwidth for their daily online activities. According to a representative from Verizon, the service operates on C-Band technology when the 5G network is unavailable. Customers can access the service for $25 per month when bundled with a mobile plan, or for $35 as a standalone offering.
Service Details and Performance
The VHI service is capped at a download speed of 25Mb/s, with typical speeds ranging between 10Mb/s and 25Mb/s. After the initial 15GB of data is consumed within a billing cycle, speeds are throttled to a maximum of 10Mb/s, with unlimited data available thereafter. Additionally, the service includes a free router for self-installation, making it easier for users to set up.
In comparison, Verizon’s standard 5G Home Internet services range from approximately $35 to $75 monthly, depending on the selected plan and whether customers are already subscribed to a mobile service.
Verizon’s recent moves in the FWA market have been notable. In the second quarter of this year, the company added 278,000 FWA customers, bringing its total to 5.1 million. Hans Vestberg, the company’s CEO, has indicated that Verizon is on track to meet its ambitious goal of reaching between 8 million and 9 million subscribers by 2028.
Strategic Acquisitions and Future Plans
Earlier this month, Verizon made headlines by acquiring regional FWA provider Starry for an undisclosed amount. This strategic acquisition aims to enhance the company’s ability to provide FWA services in buildings with multiple dwelling units, further expanding its market reach.
As Verizon continues to innovate in the broadband space, the introduction of the Verizon Home Internet Lite service reflects its commitment to providing affordable internet options for a broader range of consumers. With the ongoing rollout of its 5G infrastructure, the company is poised to redefine internet accessibility for many households previously constrained by outdated technologies.
