Overview
4G Long Term Evolution (LTE) is an enhancement of T-Mobile’s nationwide 4G HSPA+ technology. LTE delivers faster speeds—especially for uploads—and more capacity.
- T-Mobile’s 4G LTE network will operate on the same band as our 4G HSPA+ network, Band IV, which uses 1700 MHz and 2100 MHz frequencies to transmit data services.
- 4G LTE does not carry voice services, so calls will fall back to our HSPA+ network until voice over LTE (VoLTE) software is ready.
- T-Mobile’s 4G LTE equipment will be the newest and most up-to-date of any carrier.
- The 4G LTE experience will differ depending on several factors including spectrum configuration, device, coverage, and location.
- When connected to 3G/4G, you can use voice and data services at the same time due to the use of multi-RAB (Radio Access Bearer) technology, which allows multiple channels (i.e., a channel for voice and a channel for data).
Current LTE Devices
Help
LTE Requirements
- LTE Coverage: You must be in a location that has 4G LTE. T-Mobile's 4G LTE will be available in limited locations at first and will expand further into 2013. More information on market availability will be updated when available.
- LTE Device: You may use a T-Mobile branded device or Non T-Mobile device that is LTE capable.
- T-Mobile Device: Review the Specs & features for your device to determine 4G LTE capability.
- Non T-Mobile Device: 4G LTE Band 4 devices work on T-Mobile's 4G LTE network as long as 1) they are unlocked for LTE service and 2) have the right APN configuration to be compatible with our network.
- SIM Card: 4G LTE does require a capable SIM card to function. Most SIM cards are LTE capable and T-Mobile recommends using the SIM card that came with any newly purchased phones since they are compatible with network improvements and phone capabilities. See SIM Cards for additional information.
- APN: T-Mobile branded 4G LTE phones will be preconfigured with the correct APN to use 4G LTE services.
- Non T-Mobile Device: will need to have the T-Mobile 4G LTE APN added to the phone to connect to 4G LTE. Contact us for assistance with adding the 4G LTE APN.