By relabeling its existing 3G network, the country's second-largest wireless carrier joined the noisy fray over so-called fourth-generation wireless technology, which promises mobile Internet speeds so fast that huge files can be downloaded in minutes and streaming video can be watched without the interruptions of earlier-generation technologies.
Honorable mention goes to the Kindle Fire HD 8.9-inch with LTE for its innovative introductory wireless plan and the fourth-generation iPad for continuing the momentum of Apple's leading tablet line.
On the positive side of the ledger, Verizon Wireless ( VZ) has launched its new 4G or fourth-generation network in 38 cities and more airports offering data speeds faster than anything previously available over wireless.
Under the LTE in Rural America program, Verizon Wireless sought rural carriers to jumpstart the delivery of fourth-generation Long Term Evolution (LTE) services to rural communities throughout the United States.