On Tuesday, Aug. 23, AT&T revealed a new list of devices that can connect to its 5G network.
The new list consists of over 30 products, including all 5G iPhones going back to 2020's iPhone 12 line, Google's Pixel 6 and Pro smartphones, and Samsung Galaxy S21 and S22 lines, according to 9to5Mac.
AT&T Updates Devices for 5G Support
CNET reported that the other devices included in AT&T's new list are Samsung Z Flip 3 and Z Flip 4, Z Fold 3 and Z Fold 4, Apple's 5G iPads, and Motorola G Stylus 5G, 2021 G Stylus, and 2022 Moto G 5G.
Samsung's A53 5G and A13 5G are also included, as well as Samsung's Galaxy Tab S8 FE 5G tablet and Netgear's Nighthawk M6 and M6 Pro hotspots.
However, AT&T did not give an exact timeline for when the software updates will be rolled out, but according to the company's executive vice president of network Chris Sambar, the software update should arrive by the end of 2022.
The extension of the 5G support to older devices will give users who took AT&T's deal of upgrading devices on 36-month installment plans more time since they are locked into the device before they can get another one.
In this way, they can utilize AT&T's 5G network while still using the device they're paying for.
Also Read: Verizon, AT&T 5G Can Affect Plane Landing Systems, Pushes Back on C-Band Spectrum as Per FAA
5G Extension
According to CNET, AT&T spent $9.1 billion on its 5G network expansion, and together with the C-band airwaves it purchased in 2021, the carrier aims to cover 200 million people with its 5G network by the end of 2023.
When it comes to 5G, AT&T's mid-band spectrum is proving to be valuable. Although its 5G network is not of the higher frequency, it can still deliver the best combination of range and speed improvements.
In an interview with CNET, Sambar says that the company now covers more than 80 million people with its C-band network and will strive to cover up to 100 million people by the end of 2022.
By comparison, AT&T's rival, Verizon, already covers 100 million people with its 5G network and aims to reach more than 175 million people by the end of 2022.
Meanwhile, T-Mobile continues to lead the field with its 5G coverage covering more than 235 million people, with goals for its network to be accessible to 260 million people by the end of 2022 and to cover 300 million by the end of 2023.
Adding New Sites for 5G
As AT&T updates its list of devices that support its 5G network, the carrier is also boosting its frequency's speed and overall performance by adding more sites in the US.
On Tuesday, Aug. 23, the carrier announced that it had expanded its 5G network in Pennsylvania, adding 16 new sites in 13 counties to strengthen its network speeds for first responders and customers.
The new sites are at locations in Lackawanna, Carbon, and Luzerne Counites, according to Fox 56.
In Carbon County, the new AT&T site provides coverage to Lehighton City, Beltzville State Park, and Indian Head Road.
In Lackawanna Country, the new AT&T site provides coverage to Heart Lake in Scott Township. Meanwhile, in Luzerne County, the new AT&T site offers more coverage to Union Township.
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Written by Sophie Webster
