iPhone 5: Choosing Between Verizon and ATT
The release of the iPhone 5 brought with it a series of choices for consumers, particularly when it came to selecting a cellular network provider—Verizon or ATT. While Apple aimed to provide a seamless user experience, some decisions made by the company have left lingering questions and complications for users.
The Resolution to Support Simultaneous Voice and Data
One of the challenges faced by Apple in the release of the iPhone 5 was the decision not to allow simultaneous voice and data on the network for both Verizon and Sprint. This was a deliberate choice made by Apple, as they preferred not to go through with it, primarily due to issues related to antenna design and functionality.
Understanding the Variants of iPhone 5
The iPhone 5 offered three distinct variants, primarily differentiated by their support for CDMA and the specific LTE bands they were capable of supporting. Contrary to Ryan Lackey's suggestion that there are two CDMA versions, there is only one CDMA variant. All three versions support 3G and below on GSM frequencies, making them world phones capable of roaming in multiple countries.
Verizon's Simultaneous Voice and Data Capabilities
Verizon, just like all other carriers, supports simultaneous voice and data on their LTE network. However, the situation with the iPhone 5 on Verizon's 3G network presents a picture filled with peculiarities and limitations. The primary issue stems from the fact that EVDO Rev. A, which was used in Verizon's 3G network, did not support simultaneous voice and data. This technical condition placed a deliberate restraint on the iPhone's capabilities.
Notably, Apple's decision to limit the iPhone 5's ability to handle simultaneous voice and data on Verizon's 3G network was attributed to a bizarre issue involving the physical antennas. This decision has been met with criticism and frustration from users, as it seems to provide an unfair advantage to ATT, the other major US carrier, whose marketing teams undoubtedly rejoiced at the news.
Facetime Over LTE: A Workaround for Users
Despite the limitations imposed by Apple on the iPhone 5, there are still ways for users to enjoy advanced communication features. For instance, the iPhone 5 can support Facetime over LTE on Verizon's network, thanks to the "Share Everything" plans. ATT users can also benefit from this feature, provided they migrate to a new plan that supports the required data usage.
One solution for users who are finding the limitations of the iPhone 5 frustrating is to move all their calls to Google Voice. This service allows users to receive and make calls from a dedicated number, providing a more flexible and user-friendly alternative to Apple's restrictions on the iPhone 5.
Conclusion
The iPhone 5's inability to handle simultaneous voice and data on Verizon is a result of technical limitations and strategic decisions made by Apple. While this decision has caused confusion and frustration for users, it has also highlighted the flexibility and adaptability of other cellular networks and services like Google Voice. Users are encouraged to explore all possible solutions to overcome these limitations and enjoy an optimal user experience.