Verizon launches high-speed wireless network in Daytona Beach




TAMPA, Fla. -/November 6, 2006 - Wi-Fi Technology News/- In an area known for high-performance cars racing around its world-famous speedway, Verizon Wireless has launched a new high-speed wireless network to deliver the latest wireless technology and services to Daytona Beach residents, businesses and visitors.

The new BroadbandAccess network allows customers to utilize the latest high-speed productivity and entertainment applications and services on their wireless phones, laptop computers and other wireless devices. This wireless broadband experience is made possible by the Verizon Wireless Evolution-Data Optimized (EV-DO) technology, with typical connection speeds of 400-700 kilobits per second (kbps).

The multi-million dollar network expansion ? which entailed installing high-tech wireless hardware and software in dozens of wireless transmission sites ? brings high-speed wireless services to the core areas of Volusia County. With this most recent expansion, an additional 350 square miles and 175,000 residents in the region now have access to wireless broadband service. The BroadbandAccess network also is available in other major markets throughout Florida.

The expansion is part of an ongoing network investment by Verizon Wireless that has totaled more than $1 billion in the state and $30 billion nationally over the past six years.

?Daytona Beach is growing rapidly with many types of wireless users ? from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University students, students on spring break, Daytona 500 and NASCAR fans, racing industry professionals and many others ? all who demand the latest technology,? said Frank Wise, network director for Verizon Wireless Florida region. ?We?ve invested heavily to be able to provide the entire area with access to the most advanced wireless services, such as BroadbandAccess and V CAST Music and video.?

BroadbandAccess allows customers to connect wirelessly to the Internet, download e-mail and applications, and log into their corporate servers via their laptop at broadband speeds. The technology provides mobile workers full access, productivity and security, just as if they were at their desks and attached via a high-speed wired connection, but with the freedom of true mobility.

The Verizon Wireless V CAST service gives customers access to short video content, downloadable music, and cutting-edge 3D games on their mobile phones. With V CAST, customers can get short video content on-demand, including current news, weather, sports and entertainment programming. And music lovers with a V CAST Music-enabled phone are able to download and play their favorite songs ? all while on-the-go.


In addition to allowing advanced applications such as BroadbandAccess and V CAST, the network upgrade in Daytona Beach will further strengthen the Verizon Wireless network in the event of emergencies. The network stood up well to the extraordinary recent storm seasons, while other communication networks sometimes suffered substantial disruptions.

?Reliable wireless service is critical for the public during emergencies,? Wise said. ?Our strong network is the backbone of this service that allows Verizon Wireless to play a key role in public safety during crises and everyday.?


Test Man Ride-Along Program

The specially equipped Verizon Wireless test vehicles simultaneously test seven wireless providers, using a computerized program to generate phonically diverse ?conversations? and data transmissions. Members of the media who are interested in setting up an interview or ride-along with a local member of the Verizon Wireless team of real-life test men and women, please contact Chuck Hamby at 813-615-4803 or via e-mail at chuck.hamby@verizonwireless.com.


About Verizon Wireless

Verizon Wireless owns and operates the nation?s most reliable wireless network, serving 56.7 million voice and data customers. Headquartered in Basking Ridge, N.J., Verizon Wireless is a joint venture of Verizon Communications (NYSE:VZ) and Vodafone (NYSE and LSE: VOD). Find more information on the Web at http://www.verizonwireless.com.