Google Explains Lack of LTE in Nexus 4 Smartphone

Current LTE networks utilize last generation's technology.

Despite featuring a slew of enticing additions such as Android 4.2 and a quad-core Qualcomm Snapdragon S4 Pro 1.5GHz processor, the Nexus 4 doesn't feature LTE compatibility. Google has now explained why it was hesitant in integrating LTE support into the device.

According to Google's Senior Vice President of Mobile and Digital Content Andy Rubin, various LTE networks currently in use are hybrid networks, which still utilizes last generation networks.

"We certainly have a desire to offer devices on every carrier on the planet," Rubin said. "The tactical issue is GSM vs. LTE. A lot of the networks that have deployed LTE haven't scaled completely yet - they're hybrid networks. They'll do their old thing and they'll do LTE, which means the devices need both radios built into them. For now, we're gonna sit back and let those networks evolve."

Rubin also said there were manufacturing concerns to consider as well in terms of integrating LTE support into the Nexus 4.

"Two radios in a device right now certainly raises the cost, and diminishes battery life," he explained. "When we did the Galaxy Nexus with LTE we had to do just that, and it just wasn't a great user experience. It's possible to do it right, but that's not where we'll put our resources initially. Tactically, we want to make sure the devices are available for every network on the planet."

The Nexus 4 is priced extremely competitively, with the smartphone costing just $299 without contract. It'll launch in the United States and the UK among other regions come November 13.

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