The 5G network, simply put, is the next generation of mobile connectivity, bringing you faster download speeds and more reliable connections. But why is it so controversial? And what does it mean for the rest of the tech world?

5G launched in the UK in May 2019 and the rollout has been continuing since with it becoming more freely available to more and more of the population. We thought it worth reminding everyone of a few key things about 5G and what it means to us all… and bust some myths while we’re at it…

We all know this one is true; this is the next generation of mobile connectivity – we’re upgrading and so we want the best. The 4G network has a lower bandwidth compared with 5G. On a good day, you could download 200 megabits per second but 5G will get you an incredible 1 gigabit (that’s 1000 megabits!) per second. Data is going to be instant, which means higher quality video and voice calls and smoother streaming.

False. Research shows there’s no scientific evidence of any risks. The ICNIRP (International Commission on Non‐Ionizing Radiation Protection), a body that assesses the health risks of radio broadcasts, has said that 5G is safe and although guidelines have been put in place to continue to monitor its safety, the ICNIRP said they have guidelines dating back to 1998 that would still be adequate for 5G.

Ofcom have also conducted tests which found that electromagnetic field (EMF) emissions from 5G are a fraction of the highest safe level. The maximum measured at any site was approximately 1.5% of those levels.

This is true. If you want 5G you will have to update your smart devices to ensure they come with an inbuilt 5G transmitter, this also includes tablets and hotspot devices. Samsung and Motorola have already released 5G compatible phones and the latest iPhones are also compatible with the newest network.

Well yes…and no. The benefits of 5G include having all electric devices being more ‘aware’ of their surroundings – allowing us to identify problems as soon as they happen, if not before. Car makers see it as a key technology for self-driving cars, helping such vehicles “talk” to one another about road conditions, hazards and governments are looking at how it can be used to manage traffic and keep it flowing.

Tesla is already making this happen, self-parking, self-driving cars with the ability to stop of their own accord when someone crosses the street. Robots cars won’t be lining the street to overthrow the people and take over the planet, but they will be able to assess situations as they happen and make the roads a safer place to be.

What do you think about this latest advancement in networking technology?

Are you excited?

Sceptical?

Let us know in the Comments section, below.