Verizon Comms Stock Price, News & Analysis

Verizon has achieved 4.3 Gbps speeds through a lab trial by aggregating C-band and mmWave spectrum, positioning itself for significant 5G Ultra Wideband expansion. Collaborating with Ericsson and MediaTek, the trial utilized 100 MHz of C-band spectrum with 600 MHz of mmWave spectrum, enhancing efficiency and user experience. The company plans to use the new 5G C-band spectrum in 46 initial markets in Q1 2022, with coverage expected to reach 250 million people by 2024, providing faster and more reliable connectivity for consumers and businesses.

On May 5, 2021, LaLiga North America partnered with Verizon to launch the LaLiga All-Star Gaming Challenge, a unique gaming platform for amateur FIFA gamers. Running from May 1 to November 30, the program allows participants nationwide to engage with LaLiga players and influencers through gaming challenges and tutorials. Winners may earn a trip to Spain for an immersive LaLiga experience. This initiative aims to connect LaLiga fans across major U.S. cities, enhancing community engagement through gaming.

Verizon has announced an agreement with Apollo Global Management to sell Verizon Media for $5 billion, retaining a 10% stake in the new entity named Yahoo. The deal entails Verizon receiving $4.25 billion in cash, along with $750 million in preferred interests. This acquisition is expected to propel growth in digital media and advertising technology, leveraging Apollo's expertise. Verizon Media has experienced double-digit revenue growth recently, fueled by innovations in advertising and strategic partnerships.

Verizon has announced initiatives that will exceed $3 billion in responsible business investments by 2025, aiming to bridge the digital divide in underserved communities. Key highlights include a partnership with the National 4-H Council for digital skills training and the resumption of STEM programs for young men of color and rural young women. Starting May 12, the Emergency Broadband Benefit program will offer monthly discounts on internet services for qualifying customers. Verizon's network remains the most reliable for rural customers, covering a vast area and supporting digital inclusion efforts.

Verizon's Human Capital Report outlines its commitment to workforce development and talent retention. Released on April 30, 2021, the report highlights efforts to engage over 133,000 employees in a competitive labor market, especially in the context of 5G technology. CEO Christy Pambianchi emphasized the importance of attracting diverse talent, with 50% of board members and executives being women or racially/ethnically diverse. In 2020, Verizon invested $203.6 million in employee training, aiming to upskill 100,000 employees. The company continues to embrace transparency and strive for equity and engagement within its workforce.

Peter Mitchell has been appointed general manager of Verizon Connect, effective April 29, 2021. Mitchell expands his role as the chief technology officer, previously leading product and engineering teams across multiple regions. He aims to enhance growth and innovation in SaaS-based fleet management solutions, essential for improving safety, efficiency, and productivity. Mitchell succeeds Andrés Irlando, who left for another opportunity.

Verizon has installed its 5G Ultra Wideband network at GE’s Research Lab in Niskayuna, NY. This collaboration signals advancements in various applications, including remote patient monitoring, real-time control of wind farms, and aircraft engine maintenance. The 5G technology delivers speeds at least 10 times faster than 4G with ultra-low latency, enhancing asset management capabilities. GE's CTO highlighted this as a transformative step for industrial connectivity. The project aims to create next-gen solutions harnessing AI, machine learning, and other digital technologies.

On April 29, 2021, Verizon announced it will offer the latest Apple products including the new iPad Pro, iPhone 12, iPhone 12 mini, AirTag, and Apple TV 4K starting on April 30. Customers can get up to $200 off the iPad Pro with eligible trade-ins. The iPhone 12 lineup, now available in purple, also supports 5G connectivity across over 70 cities. The next generation of Apple TV 4K features a new Siri Remote and advanced HDR. Verizon promotes its 5G Nationwide network, highlighting various plans and promotions for acquiring these devices.

Jennifer Chronis has been appointed as the senior vice president of Verizon Public Sector, effective April 28, 2021. With over 25 years of experience in digital transformation, including a notable military career, Chronis is set to lead the team focused on delivering essential technology solutions for federal, state, local, education, and public safety sectors. Her leadership is expected to enhance Verizon's offerings like Verizon Frontline, designed for first responders, and bolster partnerships with the U.S. Department of Defense, as the company aims to meet evolving public sector demands.