Motorola mod 5G reveals interesting clues about early 5G

Even though we announced it last fall, we have finally received only concrete information on the attachment of Motorola's mod 5G to the Moto Z3, which also brings interesting information about the beginnings of the 5G.

Starting at $ 350, the mod, which will connect to the Moto Z3 and give it 5G connectivity, will not be cheap. However, it is the price that essentially confirms the discussions around the industry that 5G phones will have a significant premium over a similarly equipped 4G LTE device. This is one of the most expensive mods ever released, but Verizon (the exclusive mod 5G carrier) and Motorola team up to allow users to pre-order the mod 5G for only $ 50 for a limited time .

But even more intriguing is that under this limited-time agreement, Verizon announced that the mod's 5G service would be free for the first three months for anyone already enjoying one of the three Verizon's "unlimited" plans, then $ 10 a month. this. Until now, operators have been extremely cautious when asked how much would 5G data packages cost, and it's not clear if the extra 10 USD per month for 5G data will apply to future 5G devices, it is rather nice to know that the upgrade plan on the road might not be super expensive.

The other big question is that of availability. That's because pre-orders for the 5G mod will go live on March 14 but will only be available April 11, coinciding with the launch of Verizon's ultra-wideband 5G networks in Chicago and Minneapolis.

But before people in these cities encourage the early deployment of 5G, it is important to read the fine print, because even in Chicago and Minneapolis, 5G coverage will be limited to selected areas such as The Loop and Old Town in Chicago, and Elliot Park and Downtown. East and West in Minneapolis.

This somewhat sparse coverage highlights one of the problems with deploying 5G networks, namely the difficulty of accurately locating where a device can receive a 5G signal (what Verizon uses for its 5G network) . Unlike traditional 4G LTE technology, it is extremely difficult to map the mmwave 5G coverage because its penetration is strongly affected by elements such as buildings and walls.

Plus, despite a retail price of $ 350, the Moto 5G mod is not accompanied by many bonus extras, apart from a built-in 2,000 mAh battery that is there to help you balance power absorbed needed for 5G. And in exchange for these faster speeds, Z3 owners will have to deal with a mod that almost doubles the weight and thickness of the phone. So, to help compensate for this, Verizon is offering those who order the 5G mod on March 14 a free Moto Z3 phone, as long as they also activate a new range of services.

For most people, the Moto 5G mod should simply reinforce the idea that the 5G will be an incredibly difficult sale in 2019. However, if you have money to spend and live in the right place, it seems that the mod Moto 5G will be effective. promise to make Moto Z3 the first 5G phone on the market.

Update: After obtaining additional information from Verizon, we updated the story with standard and promotional 5G service rates when using the 5G Moto mod.