Recently, T-Mobile quietly released a couple of devices meant to improve the signal that you get at home.
The 4G LTE CellSpot V2 is an updated version of the device that T-Mobile launched two years ago. This new model offers a smaller form factor, better ventilation and vertical stability, and the ability to support LTE on both Band 2 and Band 4.
T-Mobile’s 4G LTE CellSpot V2 gives you a dedicated LTE connection in your home, complete with 4G LTE voice and data. It supports up to 16 simultaneous connections (8 on 4G LTE and 8 on 3G/4G UMTS), covers an average of 3,000 square feet, and can be accessed by any T-Mobile customer within range. It does not support Band 12 LTE (700MHz).
T-Mo will loan the 4G LTE CellSpot V2 to qualified postpaid customers without a monthly fee. (There is no purchase option.) The device connects to your in-home internet connection and a GPS antenna to provide you with a cellular signal. T-Mo says that no existing in-home signal is required, but customers must be within T-Mobile’s coverage area to use this device.
When using the 4G LTE CellSpot V2, your data speeds will vary based on your internet connection, simultaneous voice and data sessions, and other factors. Any data used over the CellSpot will count against your data plan.
Also of note is that the 4G LTE CellSpot V2 supports both T-Mobile-branded devices as well as BYOD devices that support T-Mo’s network.
T-Mobile also recently began offering the 4G LTE Signal Booster Duo. This is T-Mo’s first signal booster that supports LTE Band 12 (700MHz).
The 4G LTE Signal Booster Duo will extend and improve T-Mobile’s network in your home, offering coverage of around 3,000 square feet. To get one, you’ll need to be a postpaid customer with at least one bar of 3G/4G or 4G LTE signal. After a $25 deposit, T-Mo will loan a 4G LTE Signal Booster Duo at no extra charge.
With this device, you place a window unit wherever you’ve got the strongest indoor 3G, 4G, or 4G LTE indoor signal. You then place the coverage unit wherever you need to improve your signal the most.
T-Mobile’s 4G LTE Signal Booster Duo supports 3G/4G and 4G LTE on both T-Mobile devices as well as BYOD devices. The maximum number of simultaneous connections supported with this 4G LTE Signal Booster Duo is 16 voice sessions and 4 data sessions.
It’s good to see T-Mobile offering signal booster devices to customers that need them for no extra charge. It can be frustrating when you get little to no cell service at home, and that frustration can be made worse when your carrier wants you to pay for a device to improve the signal in your home.
Have you snagged either the 4G LTE CellSpot V2 or 4G LTE Signal Booster Duo yet?
Via: Reddit (1), (2)
Sources: T-Mobile 4G LTE CellSpot V2, 4G LTE Signal Booster Duo