Verizon Preps for 5G with $1 Billion+ Next Generation Optical Fiber Purchase

In prep for the next generation optical fiber backbone necessary for the deployment of 5G, Verizon has agreed to a minimum purchase agreement with Corning worth at least $1.05 billion. The purchase includes fiber optic cabling and associated hardware. The deal calls for Corning to provide up to 20 million kilometers (12.4 million miles) of optical fiber each year from 2018 through 2020, with a minimum purchase commitment of $1.05 billion. Verizon will use those fiber assets for a fiber network architecture that supports 5G, 4G, and its Fios FTTP service. Verizon says they wanted to hedge against a possible shortage in fiber supply and thus wanted to lock-up a commitment with Corning.