Verizon launched 2 Gbps symmetrical service in New York City today, making it the latest broadband provider to offer multi-gigabit service. A Verizon spokesperson said the company is using NG-PON2 to deliver the service.
The Verizon 2 Gbps service will sell for $119.99 monthly with autopay. The cost includes Whole Home Wi-Fi, Verizon router rental, and 2 terabytes (TB) of cloud storage. In addition, customers can request a Wi-Fi Extender Mini if needed.
Verizon plans to launch 2 Gbps service in additional markets later this year.
The Multi-Gigabit Trend
More and more broadband providers have been launching multi-gigabit service. Among them:
In August, Frontier said it would begin offering 2 Gbps symmetrical service this year.
Last month, AT&T made 2 Gbps and 5 Gbps service available to 5.2 million homes and businesses and said it would upgrade its entire fiber footprint to those speeds by year-end 2025.
Also last month, Ziply launched 2 Gbps and 5 Gbps service in 60 markets in its Northwest service area.
Some smaller companies — including Vexus Fiber and Hotwire — have even launched 10 Gbps service.
While many companies are using XGS-PON to offer multi-gigabit service, Verizon instead has chosen to rely on NG-PON2. Although NG-PON2 is more costly than XGS-PON, Verizon sees it as more future-proof.
Verizon also likes NG-PON2’s four-wavelength approach, which the provider sees as a means of enhancing network reliability.
In addition to launching Verizon 2 Gbps service today, Verizon also noted that beginning February 11, new 1 Gbps, 2 Gbps, 5G Home or LTE Internet customers will get Disney+, Hulu and ESPN+ free for up to 12 months. In addition, the provider said select plans will offer $300 off on the Verizon Stream TV sound bar.
