5G or the fifth generation of mobile communications brings a superior data transmission speed, with better capacity and stability of connection to the mobile network, enabling the connection of several devices at the same time. Its worldwide deployment started in 2019, and in Europe in 2020. While 6G is already a topic, what is the current state and development of the deployment of 5G?
The deployment of 5G worldwide
A Statista study shows strong inequalities between the world powers and the rest of the world. China and the United States are far ahead with respectively 341 and 279 cities provided with 5G.
On a European perspective, the United Kingdom has 54 cities provided with 5G in 2021, ahead of Spain (53), Italy (35) and France (24).
The most advanced country in its 5G network deployment would be South Korea, with 85 equipped cities.
The main obstacles to 5G adoption
The deployment of 5G first started with non standalone (NSA) technology on the 4G network, offering a much more limited speed as real 5G technology. Moreover, mobile phone users do not necessarily have a smartphone suitable for 5G technology, or do not want to buy a 5G subscription, more expensive than a 4G service.
However, many operators are now deploying a standalone (SA) 5G network, enabling the use of the whole potential of 5G. Its usefulness goes from autonomous vehicles until telesurgery, thanks to the speed of connection offered by this new generation of mobile networks. Still, users must see in 5G all the potential it can provide them…
By 2026, two thirds of the world’s population should be covered by the 5G network. Smart Dataprod participates in the deployment of 5G helping providers update and optimize their production sites. Contact us for more information.
