The Verge

Dish Network has taken a big step forward on its journey to becoming the country’s fourth wireless carrier — one that it should have taken, oh, let’s say many months ago. As reported by Axios, its 5G network, aka Project Genesis, has finally launched to paying customers in Las Vegas, graduating from the beta program that began late last year. For $30 per month it includes unlimited 5G data, talk, text, and, uh, this: “Additionally, we include a white-glove delivery experience and exclusive access to the Project Genesis app where you can earn rewards.” Rewards including... NFTs.

As part of T-Mobile’s deal to buy Sprint, Dish Network has been tasked by the FCC with taking Sprint’s place as our fourth carrier. It’s taking an unconventional route to get there, building its 5G network using O-RAN technology, which is open-source and relies on more off-the-shelf hardware rather than a lot of proprietary components. Samsung is in the mix, too, supplying software and radios.

So it’s not too surprising that this unconventional network has a few unconventional terms. For example, you can’t bring your own device right now. You’ll need a Project Genesis-issued... wait for it... Motorola Edge Plus (2022). That’s the only supported phone, and it’s delivered to you by a “Project Genesis ambassador” which appears to be a guy in a van wrapped with Project Genesis branding.