5G facts for kids

The 5G logo

5G is the fifth and newest generation of wireless technology for mobile phones. It was first launched in March 2019. 5G uses many new technologies that make it much faster than the older 4G networks. Currently, 5G can reach speeds between 100 megabits per second (Mbit/s) and 2 gigabits per second (Gbit/s), depending on the radio frequency it uses. Eventually, 5G is expected to replace 4G completely.

What are 5G Frequencies?

5G uses different types of radio frequencies, which are like invisible waves that carry information. These frequencies are grouped into three main types:

Lowband 5G

Lowband 5G uses low frequencies, similar to what 4G uses.

• Long Range: This type of 5G can travel long distances. You can get a signal far from a cell tower or even inside buildings.
• Slower Speeds: While it has great range, Lowband 5G is the slowest type of 5G. It's only a little faster than 4G LTE.
• Typical Speed: Around 100 Mbit/s.

Midband 5G

Midband 5G uses frequencies that are a bit higher than Lowband 5G.

• Medium Range: It has a shorter range than Lowband 5G, but you can usually still get service indoors.
• Faster Speeds: Midband 5G is much faster than 4G LTE.
• Typical Speed: Between 600 Mbit/s and 1 Gbit/s.

mmWave 5G

mmWave 5G (millimeter wave) uses very high frequencies.

• Very Short Range: This type has a very short range. It's hard to get service inside buildings.
• Easily Blocked: Most solid objects, like walls or even leaves on trees, can block mmWave signals.
• Fastest Speeds: mmWave is the fastest type of 5G, reaching speeds up to 2 Gbit/s right now.
• Less Practical: Because its range is so short and it's easily blocked, mmWave is considered the least practical version of 5G for everyday use.

Do I Need a New Phone for 5G?

Yes, 4G phones cannot connect to 5G networks. To use 5G, you need a special phone that supports it. Many 5G-compatible phones have "5G" in their name to make it easy to tell.

5G and Health Concerns

Some people have worried that 5G might cause health problems like cancer or even COVID-19. However, scientists have studied these claims and found them to be untrue. 5G technology is safe to use.

Images for kids

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  A 5G cell site from Deutsche Telekom in Darmstadt, Germany

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  A 5G cell site from Vodafone in Karlsruhe, Germany