5G

The name of the mobile telecommunications standards beyond 4G, it succeeds the 4G, 3G and 2G systems. 5G performance targets high data rate, reduced latency, energy saving, cost reduction, higher system capacity, and massive device connectivity. 

What is 5G? Since the first commercial wireless network went live in 1986, a new wireless network has been built about every decade. The first-generation network—1G—allowed voice calls over bulky “brick” phones. The second gave us digital texting. The mid-2000s ushered in mobile internet connectivity. The next decade brought 4G and broadband video streaming. The dramatically faster connectivity with 5G unlocked an array of technologies, from autonomous cars that share traffic data to immersive virtual reality games. It’s not just a phone technology, in many territories, it replaced wired broadband in the home and allows for billions of other connected devices. 

Historical perspective: As of 2013, any new capabilities were still being grouped under 4G standards. 5G Home Internet service began in October 2018 and Commercial 5G networks officially launched on April 3, 2019. 5G Ultra Wideband also began rolling out in April 2019. 

To learn more about the difference between 5g and 6g, read the article below "6g Networks to Launch in 2030"!