Verizon to launch 5G hotspots (pucks) in 2018 because 5G phones won't arrive in time

Just like AT&T suggested late last month, the first mobile devices usable on 5G networks will be puck-shaped hotspots, not smartphones. ZTE is one of the few handset makers that confirmed it will bring 5G smartphones in the US at some point, but AT&T and Verizon don't believe a 5G smartphone will be launched on the market by the time their 5G networks will be up and running.

During an interview with Bloomberg, Verizon's wireless chief, Ronan Dunne said that if there's anything available this year to support a 5G network, it's more likely to be a hotspot rather than a smartphone.

But ...