Verizon's new 4G LTE router has a landline jack, offers a peek at the future of online

Verizon has a new 4G LTE home internet router that includes voice, and it's meant to replace your home phone line and cable internet subscriptions in one fell swoop. The "Verizon 4G LTE Broadband Router with Voice" (rolls right off the tongue!) packs in WiFi connectivity as well as three Ethernet ports and a phone line jack for your landline. Up to 10 devices can connect to it wirelessly, though we wouldn't suggest as much given the LTE connectivity.

Should you choose to pick one up ($50 w/ two-year plan or $200 outright), there are a few options for subscription: data only, voice and data, or just voice. Initially, if you snag that voice-and-data plan, the router itself is actually free -- and it's available starting today. Of course, as CNET points out, Verizon's "Share Everything" data plans come with limitations (notably, data caps) and that means you'd better be a pretty light internet user (or employing the service for a brief period, like a vacation). 

Interestingly, Novatel Wireless -- the company behind Verizon's new LTE router hardware -- is also offering its own, non-carrier-branded version of the same device, dubbed, "MiFi Home." The price and release date for MiFi Home varies from carrier to carrier -- a Novatel Wireless rep tells Engadget, "MiFi Home is offered through our carrier partners and distribution so pricing is set by our carrier partners."

ENGADGET