What We Know About the UK’s Upcoming 5G Connectivity Boost
Have you found yourself walking around with a shiny new phone that boasts 5G capabilities only to consistently see 4G or even 3G in the corner while you’re wandering around? That might be a thing of the past. Apparently, the UK is looking to invest in 5G which could see certain areas receive a big […]
Have you found yourself walking around with a shiny new phone that boasts 5G capabilities only to consistently see 4G or even 3G in the corner while you’re wandering around? That might be a thing of the past. Apparently, the UK is looking to invest in 5G which could see certain areas receive a big boost in data, which means your signal won’t fall out all of a sudden – always when you really need it.
So, what does this plan involve? We’re looking at the latest plans for 5G connectivity and how they will be implemented across the country. Take a look at what we found.
What is 5G?
5G is the “5th generation” of mobile data and the most advanced form of it thus far. Compared to the 4G standard, 5G delivers faster data speeds, lower latency, and the ability to connect more devices simultaneously. 5G speeds can reach over 1 Gigabit per second, while 4G LTE speeds typically maxed out around 100 Mbps. It does this with a greater capacity, meaning the network can handle many more connected devices simultaneously. Depending on what you’re doing with your phone it might even be necessary to roam as massive IoT deployment and smart cities applications will require this increased capability.
5G uses new radio technology and capabilities that enable its faster speeds, lower latency, and greater capacity compared to earlier generations. Key innovations include beamforming, small cells, and mmWave.
The long and short of it is that 5G builds on 4G LTE infrastructure but constitutes a major leap forward with game-changing improvements in connectivity performance. These advances will pave the way for technological transformation across many industries. However, they are still actively being rolled out across the globe. 5G builds on 4G LTE infrastructure and makes improvements in connectivity performance but only about 15% of mobile connections were 5G as of early 2023.
A plan from the UK Government
The UK government has been making investments and regulatory changes to facilitate the rollout of 5G networks across the country. This includes new spectrum auctions and reducing barriers for building physical infrastructure. It recently passed new laws that made it faster and cheaper for telecom companies to obtain permits to build physical towers and mast infrastructure needed for 5G networks, removing previous barriers for entry.
This will provide reliable coverage for people all over the UK. It will provide creators the ability to post wherever they need to, provide reliable security where that is needed, and ensure people are less and less ‘tethered’ to thor home Wi-Fi connections All different industries are working to offer a new horizon in terms of quality and speed. Businesses are looking to harness the power of the metaverse, while gaming developers are looking provide UK casino players with gaming options that perform smoothly — and prove immersive — through 5G connections.
Who’s involved?
The UK telecom regulator Ofcom has conducted a series of spectrum auctions selling 5G suitable frequency bands to major operators. These have raised billions to fund the government’s economic recovery plans. Major UK telecom companies like BT, Vodafone, and Three are rapidly building out their 5G networks in major cities and transport corridors. The goal is to achieve majority 5G coverage nationwide by 2027.
Why is the UK expanding 5G?
So, why are they doing this? For the benefit of the citizens? Maybe, but there is another side to it. These upcoming 5G spectrum auctions in 2023 are expected to raise billions for the UK government to put towards economic recovery efforts since Liz Truss’ reign as Prime Minister in September of 2022. The hope appears to be of the UK government that its 5G leadership will give it an economic boost. 5G could raise productivity, boost GDP, and encourage new technology businesses to operate in the UK. Estimates suggest 5G could add £40 billion to UK GDP by 2030. Fast connectivity will also make Britain more attractive for global tech talent and businesses.
Additionally, the 5G integration will enable the Smart City innovation that politicians like London Mayor Sadiq Khan have been talking about for years. With 5G, “Smart City” applications like connected transport, infrastructure sensors, energy grids, traffic control and public safety monitoring can be enabled.
Is there any pushback?
However, critics have pointed out that these plans appear to be very city-focussed. There are still challenges around providing 5G connectivity in rural areas due to requiring more infrastructure investment. The government insists that it has funds in place to help improve rural access over time but for now is focussed on improving city data.
Additionally, concerns persist around security issues with 5G networks and certain vendors. Huawei and ZTE are both major Chinese vendors with surveillance that can be enabled by 5G. The government is legislating oversight into vendor selection and network security standards, causing intelligence agencies to question the decision. The UK government has acted on this by offering a balanced approach. Huawei’s access has been restricted and the UK government has also invest in homegrown 5G companies and startups with various funds.
Conclusion
Even with the concerns from intelligence agencies, 5G leadership represents huge economic, commercial and social opportunities for UK businesses and citizens.