Verizon has introduced a more affordable version of its 5G fixed wireless access (FWA) service, targeting budget-conscious consumers with light internet usage. Named Verizon Home Internet Lite (VHI), this service is designed for households that have historically relied on slower broadband options such as DSL or satellite, particularly in areas outside of Verizon’s Fios broadband coverage.
The new offering is tailored for customers who require basic internet services without the need for high-speed connectivity. According to a company representative, VHI operates on the C-Band spectrum when the 5G network is not available. The service is priced at $25 per month when bundled with a mobile plan, or $35 as a standalone option. VHI is capped at a maximum download speed of 25 Mb/s, with typical speeds ranging between 10 Mb/s and 25 Mb/s.
After users consume the first 15 GB of data within a month, speeds are throttled to a maximum of 10 Mb/s, but unlimited data is available for the remainder of the billing cycle. To facilitate ease of use, the service includes a free router for self-installation.
Verizon’s standard 5G Home Internet services currently range from approximately $35 to $75 per month, depending on the plan and existing mobile tariffs. In the second quarter of 2023, Verizon added 278,000 new FWA customers, bringing its total subscriber count to 5.1 million. Former CEO Hans Vestberg emphasized the company’s commitment to reaching between 8 million and 9 million subscribers for the service by 2028.
In a strategic move to expand its reach, Verizon recently announced its acquisition of regional FWA provider Starry for an undisclosed sum. This deal is part of Verizon’s plan to enhance service availability in buildings with multiple dwelling units, further solidifying its position in the competitive telecommunications market.
