Verizon Dumps Qualcomm for Euro Upgrades

"LTE will build on the capabilities of Vodafone's 3G broadband High Speed Packet Access (HSPA) network technology, which is available across the entire Vodafone 3G footprint," Vodafone said in a press release.

The company did not say how much it expected the LTE expansion plan to cost.

The move comes just two days after Verizon said it would open its network to other devices beyond what it supplies to its wireless service subscribers. Verizon requires that outside devices pass muster in its lab before receiving a stamp of approval.

Verizon says it is working with consumer electronics companies to embed wireless connections in future products.

Verizon shares were down 7 cents to $42.41 and Qualcomm fell 50 cents $40.92 in post-close trading Thursday.

>To order reprints of this article, click here: Reprints