LTE, at a glance

CEBU, Philippines - As technical terms and fancy names continue to proliferate in the mobile technology dictionary, one term has recently been relentlessly used, utilized in defining the ideal of more reliable, faster and better - LTE.

What is this LTE? Is it a new product? Is it a new brand? Or is it a new service?

If you're among the many wondering, here's a quick look at what LTE is and what it could mean for you.

The LTE standard, at a glance

Short for "long term evolution", LTE is a mobile communication standard that's made to be faster and more stable than 3G-based mobile communications. Often marketed as "4G LTE", the standard is a step-up over 3G conventions, utilizing updates in the digital signal processing protocols that are related to 3G-based wireless activities.

Basically, the LTE standard is a faster option for mobile electronic communications, one that is positioned to bring "true broadband" connectivity experiences for mobile internet users.

LTE and the 4G Conundrum

Though marketed as "4G LTE", arguments and debates over LTE's actual 4G status is still ongoing, with each side raising significant points over the other.

Often categorized as an upscale version of the 3G standard, one side pegs LTE to be no different than WiMAX and HSPA+, as the other side insists that of the three, LTE is the only true 4G standard in the group.

Given the fact that there have been different varieties of 3G standards (defined by their internet speeds and protocols), properly identifying what 4G is has become confusing, with the International Telecommunications Union even having a hard time in defining the qualifiers and requirements necessary in properly deeming the 4G standard.

However, even with all the confusion over its true 4G status, the LTE standard is faster than the older 3G, as revealed by those who've come to experience their use.

LTE and the Philippines

As fact sheets would note, LTE comes as an advantage for mobile internet users who deal with large amounts of data, given its support for faster internet speeds (up to more than 100Mbps).

With mobile carriers in the Philippines still building up their overall coverage and support for the LTE standard, it is difficult to actually jot down a comparison of internet speeds between 3G and "4G LTE" here in the country, but gaining a "preview" of how fast LTE is can be experienced.

The recently opened Jump Experience Center at SM City Cebu showcases the latest technological innovations featured by PLDT and Smart, with Smart's take on the LTE standard being one of the venue's more stellar highlights.

Proud in currently being the country's only telco with a functioning LTE network, you can readily experience how fast Smart's take on the LTE standard is in the Jump Experience Center, an experience which would greatly help you decide if you should subscribe for the service when it becomes commercially available soon.

As the mobile gadgetry realm is eagerly anticipating the scheduled release of new products from standards making brands, the rise of LTE in the Philippines is well on its way, the perfect complement in maximizing the use of newer, faster technologies. (FREEMAN)