5G is the newest standard for broadband and cellular networks, promising faster, more reliable, and more effective technology. It runs on the same radio frequencies that are currently used in most smartphones, on WiFi networks and in satellite communications, but is a new iteration that allows this technology to go much further.
With 5G, individuals can download a full-length HD film to their phone in seconds, even in the middle of a large crowd. It is a better form of connection, allowing people to connect reliably and without lags, so that they can measure, understand and react to things in real time.
The new 5G roll-out is driven by 8 specification requirements:
- Up to 10Gbps data rate: in real terms, this means up to a 10-100x speed improvement in comparison to 4G and 4.5G networks.
- 1-millisecond latency (delay)
- 1000x bandwidth per unit area
- Up to 100x more connected devices per unit area in comparison with 4G LTE
- 99.999% availability
- 100% coverage
- 90% reduction in energy network usage
- Up to 10-year battery life for low power IoT devices
One of the most exciting parts of 5G technology is its extremely low latency rate; latency being the delay between sending and receiving information. While 4G had a latency rate of 200 milliseconds, 5G’s latency rate is a miniscule 1millisecond. To place this in context, the average reaction time for a human being to react to stimulus is 250ms (a quarter of a second) or, with training, no more than 190-200ms. When driving at 60mph, the average reaction distance is 30 metres before an individual will brake. However, if that person had a reaction time of 1millisecond, then they would brake within an inch. With 5G technology, new generations of cars could react this quickly to potential hazards in the road.
But how will 5G impact businesses in particular? Given higher speeds and a hugely more reliable network, businesses will be able to operate much more efficiently and give users almost instantaneous access to information. Everyday tasks can take place with fewer delays, quicker feedback, and better precision. With regards to mobile connectivity, in short: every aspect of mobile connectivity will be faster, more reliable, and widespread. Using 5G, businesses could operate at the same level (or potentially more efficiently) with 5G networks than with their in-house broadband, and working on the move would become increasingly easy, with delays or complications becoming much less common.
If you would like to find out more about 5G in the UK, more information is available on the Ofcom website.
