A new wave of wireless technology has landed with a splash. With 5G networks going live across the globe, it is no surprise that many wonder what this technology is all about. So, what is 5G? How is it different from 4G LTE? And when will 5G networks become widespread?
This article will discuss what 5G is, who will benefit from it, and how it compares to 4G LTE.
What Is 5 G, and How Does It Work?
5G is a set of wireless networking standards, with the “G” referring to generation. This makes it the fifth and latest generation of wireless networking standards. It’s going to be crazy fast, but more importantly, it will also be a lot more responsive and reliable than current networks.
In previous generations, data traveled to and from devices across a specific range of bands and frequencies. There were limitations to these, which allowed data to travel only so fast with some amount of latency.
5G will broadcast data differently – by operating on higher, less-crowded frequencies to surpass those limitations.
What Do I Use It For?
5G will deliver speedy data transmission, lower latency, and broader support for simultaneous device connections — all good things for most of us. With ultra-fast 5G connectivity, you can look forward to downloading an 8K movie in seconds and lag-free streaming in ultra-high-definition.
But that’s just the beginning – as more 5G networks come online, the range of possibilities will expand.
One such possibility is flying cars. If and when the technology to mass-manufacture flying cars becomes available, 5G could limit the danger of human error involved in operating the vehicles.
Because 5G allows for multiple devices to connect with each other seamlessly, the complicated network of computers and sensors in flying cars will be able to exchange large amounts of information in real-time to reduce the risk of collision. That same concept will likely be used in future generations of self-driving cars.
Who’s Making It?
It seems like anyone who’s anyone wants in on the next big thing. All major carriers, including AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, and Sprint, have rolled out 5G networks to a certain extent. Manufacturers, like telecom giants, are also busy figuring out how to build 5G-compatible products and network support.
The main takeaway is that eventually, everyone will have access to 5G, no matter who your provider is or what type of smartphone you use.
