We have seen cell boosters before, and Verizon’s SmartHub announcement is a confusing one. Details and exact information are scarce, but it will be launching tomorrow May 25th at $199 at full retail or $99 with a contract. It seems that it will be a larger hotspot, as it can provide WiFi to nearly any device that can connect.
On the flip side, it might act a connected home hub that will smart lightbulbs and door locks communicate. This is done through the Verizon Home application– it will let you control your smart home and monitor it. It seems as if this is Verizon’s entry into the smart home space and it is a unique one.
The release also highlighted the design language that Verizon is using, but it would have been better to see more specific details than a focus on design. It has a screen built-in that will let you network strength, data usage, and see passwords.
Verizon’s SmartHub still has a lot of unknowns but it might be designed for cord cutters or those who want an alternative to traditional internet connectivity for a home. It seems like they will need to develop a special plan as the SmartHub will use a ton of data.
