AT&T 4G Network Comes to Area

That 4G data plan from AT&T you've been paying for will finally come to good use in Sarasota and Manatee counties today.

AT&T announced that its 4G LTE (also known as Long Term Evolution) data network went live Wednesday morning in both counties. The company also activated its 4G LTE network in Hillsborough, Pinellas and Pasco counties today as well.

"We plan to consistently expand our 4G LTE footprint in these areas over the coming months," said Kelly Starling, spokeswoman for AT&T.

The 4G LTE is up to 10 times faster for receiving and sending data than the 3G speeds. To experience 4G data speeds, you must have a 4G cellphone, mobile hot spot or tablet or other device, and pay for the 4G plan.

“We continue to see demand for mobile broadband skyrocket, and our 4G LTE network in the Sarasota-Bradenton area responds to what customers want from their mobile experience — more, faster, on the best devices,” said Rich Guidotti, vice president and general manager, AT&T Mobility & Consumer Markets for West, Central and North Florida.