Verizon launched its 4G LTE network in December 2010, covering 110 million people initially. By the end of 2011, Verizon planned to cover 185 million people with 4G LTE in 175 markets. Verizon saw 4G LTE as a new network overlay to 3G that offered substantial improvements in throughput and latency. Verizon was increasing the ecosystem of devices that support 4G LTE, with several smartphone and tablet options available in mid-2011.