- Rolling out in 2019 & 2020, 5G, the fifth generation wireless system will succeed 4G, which was first introduced in 2009
- At 10GB/second, 5G could end up being 100x faster than 4G
- Citing security concerns, countries have banned largest 5G equipment maker which could slow the advancement of the technology
A full decade after the commercialization of 4G, the next generation of mobile networks will start rolling out globally. With 5G, a full HD movie could be downloaded in seconds or up to 100x faster than the prior 4G version.
5G will also promote the growth of internet of things (IoT). It increases transmission speed and total bandwidth which will be needed to accommodate the added demand from “smart” objects like vehicles, appliances and clothing, all of which are getting online by communicating with one another.
While 5G will bring more devices online, it will also significantly increasing security worries. By 2024, mobile networks will carry 5x the amount of data that they carry today. During this time, more than 22 billion gadgets will be connected to the internet. The potential for security breaches will increase, as a result.
Some nations are worried that Chinese 5G equipment, chips and software could be outfitted to spy on other nations. In recent months, counties like Australia, USA and several European nations have banned Huawei and ZTE Corp from supplying 5G wireless equipment to its telecommunication operators, citing national security.
These bans and restrictions may cause the US and EU nations to fall behind in the global 5G race. Currently, China, South Korea and Japan are expected to lead the 5G rollout. The US-led crackdown on Huawei could place US & EU nations behind.
Article by: Francisco Cortez – Delgado
I graduated from Queen’s University with a Master’s of Political Studies. The intertwined world of politics and economics intrigue me. My favourite stories to cover are the ones that show how a few selected officials can impact nationwide macro-economic policies. I also follow the broader markets and FOREX.