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5G in the UK: The Next Generation of Mobile Technology

How does it work?

5G offers faster upload and download speeds, transmitting data quicker and has greater capacity and quicker response times; compared to today’s networks, of which 3G and 4G are still primarily used. The complete shift to 5G won’t happen quickly, as network carriers are working to upgrade their huge infrastructures to support this technology.

With higher performing mobile devices, better connections and reduced latency, 5G will offer a whole host of benefits to businesses. With upload and download speeds almost operating 20x that of 4G speeds, businesses can be confident in its performance and ability to better connect with 5G network technology. 5G will enable the connection of millions of devices of all kinds and the collection of data from these devices.

Where is 5G available?

The launch of 5G has only recently been deployed by top network carriers within specific locations across the UK. The networks’ approached is staggered as more locations become available to 5G, until the roll-out is complete and 5G is available nationwide.

EE was the first network to launch 5G in the UK in May 2019, followed shortly by Vodafone with 5G going live in July 2019 and then O2 launching 5G in October 2019. Each network has launched their adoption of 5G in specific locations across the UK.

Each network is continuing to adapt active 5G technology across regions of the UK. Currently, EE has 50 towns and cities with 5G, Vodafone has 31 and 21 are available on O2; with more to come in 2020.

What does 5G mean for business?

5G is said to allow for cutting-edge network technology to be developed alongside high performing mobile devices and should offer connections that are no longer hindered by slower performing internet speeds. 5G technology will provide the infrastructure needed to advance Internet of Things technology, casting a wider net than just the evolution of mobile connectivity, but being the conduit for information sharing and driving interconnected devices; providing a smarter and more connected world.

Will I need new mobile devices to use 5G?

In order to connect to 5G networks your mobile handsets will need to be supported for 5G connectivity to enjoy its benefits. Each network carrier launching 5G have also launched 5G-compatible devices. A range of devices available for 5G include brands such as Samsung and Huawei, however Apple have just released the iPhone 11 series without 5G technology included so we can expect a delay in Apple offering handsets that are compatible.

One consideration businesses should make in regards to moving to 5G, is due to the speed at which data is transmitted and devices can now operate at, data consumption will increase significantly to support operating on 5G networks. This means mobile data plans currently used will need to be upgraded to a higher data allowance or unlimited data plans that will perform best with 5G networks.

To discover more about 5G and the handsets available for 5G networks across EE, Vodafone and O2, contact your Business Development Manager.

 

About the author

Chess

Chess is one of the UK’s leading independent and trusted technology service providers, employing 300 skilled people across the UK, supporting over 20,000 organisations.

 By leveraging world-class technology, Chess helps you to connect your people, protect your data, grow your business, reduce your costs and work better together, which means your business, your people and your customers can thrive.

At Chess, we’re passionate about our unique culture and our continuous investment in our people to be industry experts. We’re extremely proud that our people voted us No.1 in ‘The Sunday Times 100 Best Companies to Work for’ list 2018, and we continue to celebrate more than ten years in the top 100.

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