Nokia today applauded Verizon Wireless' announced plans to develop and deploy a fourth generation mobile broadband network.

The Long Term Evolution (LTE) technology Verizon Wireless chose is an open and global specification for next generation networks that will bring scale and efficiencies for manufacturers, choice in network equipment and device for operators, and better value for consumers.

"Nokia has long been committed to working closely with operators in the US and around the world, and is very pleased to support Verizon Wireless in their choice of LTE as their global 4G evolution path," said Mark Louison, President, Nokia Inc., the North American arm of Nokia. "It is very exciting to see Verizon Wireless, one of the world's leading wireless providers, announce their open development initiative for devices and their decision to evolve their network to the open, global specification of LTE."

Within the next 10 years, Nokia sees that demand for an enriched mobile experience and mobile computing will continue to grow at exponential rates. LTE will help to enable faster, richer multimedia services such as multi-player gaming with rich 3D graphics and simultaneous Instant Messaging or voice calls and a host of other applications providing a much more compelling mobile experience for consumers everywhere.