Absolutely it is exactly what the NE addresses, however, since it is just an extension of the network it can only be as good as the macro network and if the macro network is deficient then the NE will be only a marginal improvement. It will improve that weak signal when you barely have one bar.
Looks like they may have a different solution on the horizon. Already preparing to upgrade their 4G network! How much effort could they be expected to put into improving their 3G system?
Here is a fantastic video about 5G and the future of Cellular. I guess we can only pray that 5Bars is playing into this space with the deployment of ‘thousands of antennae’s”. And since Gil Amelio is involved, I have to believe they are, especially when you read between the lines of what they are doing. He would so intimate with the development roadmap.