You may have heard the term LTE in the past year or 2 but most people don't really understand what it is or what it does for you. What is LTE? The simple answer is that it is a technology that helps your smartphone download stuff from the internet MUCH Faster. How much faster? That depends, but typically LTE can be around 10 times faster in everyday usage. Its as fast or faster than your home broadband connection. Its fast enough to quickly stream music or high definition videos with little to no wait time.

How do I get LTE?

There are 2 things that you need to get LTE. A new smartphone with LTE built in, and LTE cellular coverage in the area where you live or work. Apple's newest iPhone 5 has LTE built in. So do many of the newer android phones. For networks, Verizon has the most LTE coverage, but AT&T is quickly catching up. Sprint still has a long way to go to build out its LTE network. And Tmobile is pretty much not an option right now for LTE.

You can also buy LTE hotspot devices to hook up to your laptop, enabling you to have a high speed data connection when you are on the go.

Do I need LTE?

That depends. For music, 3G coverage is typically good enough to stream pandora or spotify. It also works pretty well for most mobile web pages or apps. LTE is most valuable when streaming video. Thats because video files are larger and the speed and bandwidth of LTE allow you to download video very quickly. You will also notice that webpages load faster and your internet connection will be generally snappier.

How much is LTE?

LTE typically costs the same as the old 3G data network. However, because of the speed, its easy to get carried away and download much more video and data than you did with your old phone. This causes you to reach your data plan limits much faster and you risk paying overage charges for data each month. So if you do switch, keep an eye on this and make sure you don't use more data than you really mean to.

Visit your cellular providers website to check availability in your area. LTE is rapidly expanding so if its not available yet, it will likely be available soon.