The 5G UW network is Verizon's fastest 5G service that is available to millions of people around the U.S. It is available on all compatible iPhones and Android devices connected to Verizon's 5G network and can be distinguished by a 5G UW or 5G UWB sign in the status bar. The sign lets s know that they are on Verizon's super-fast 5G network instead of the slower Nationwide 5G network. The various types of 5G, such as 5G UC, 5G UW, and 5G+, can be confusing, so it's worth explaining what these acronyms mean and how each carrier uses them to market their services.
The 5G UW icon seen in a smartphone's status bar indicates the carrier's mid-band (C-band) or millimeter wave (mmWave) 5G network. However, given that the availability of mmWave networks isn't widespread, in most cases, the icon will denote mid-band 5G as this makes up the bulk of the carrier's faster 5G network. Do note that Verizon's 5G UW network could also be denoted by '5G UWB' in some devices, but it's essentially the same 5G Ultra Wideband network.
5G UW Vs. 5G UC Vs. 5G+: Is There A Difference?
5G UW-compatible devices include the entire iPhone 13 and iPhone 14 lineup, iPhone SE (2022), Galaxy S22 series, Galaxy S23 series, Pixel 6 series, and Pixel 7 series, among others. Meanwhile, 5G Nationwide is Verizon's low-band 5G network that provides more extensive coverage but with relatively slower speeds than 4G LTE.
C-Band offers the best balance between speed and coverage, making it best suited for large-scale 5G deployment. Alongside Verizon, T-Mobile and AT&T have also rolled out C-Band for customers. As for mmWave, it offers the fastest connections but has poor range and penetrability, which means its availability is primarily restricted to a handful of stadiums and indoor arenas.
In of 5G and 5G Plus. It also has a 5G E (5G Evolution) network, but it's not 5G at all. It is just a 4G network that the carrier brands as 5G, further adding to everyone's confusion.
What Are The Benefits Of 5G UW?
With Verizon's 5G UW network, s will be able to take advantage of the fastest 5G speeds available. That means everything they do on their phone, from browsing to streaming to ing, will be much faster. s will also be able to stream audio and video in HD, making it ideal for video calls.
Since 5G UW is so fast, it's a safer bet than public Wi-Fi, particularly in stadiums and arenas where poorly secured networks are prone to hacking. Additionally, 5G UW is designed to be used by many people at the same time, which means that the speed won't be throttled even when there's a crowd. Verizon's 5G UW is available with its Unlimited Plus plans, $75 Prepaid Unlimited Plus plan, 100GB Prepaid Data plan, and 150GB Prepaid Data plan.
Source: Verizon