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What is 5G all about?

Technology is always evolving and the latest piece of tech that everyone seems to be talking about is 5G, this is the latest evolution of mobile data but what does this mean for users? We’ve explored what users can expect when using 5G so you know exactly what you can get out of it. 

What is 5G? 

This is the first question most people will want to know the answer to, each generation of wireless data has been given a name. Previous versions have been 1G, 2G, 3G, 4G and now 5G. 5G wireless technology is meant to deliver higher multi-Gbps peak data speeds, ultra-low latency, more reliability, massive network capacity, increased availability, and a more uniform user experience to more users. Higher performance and improved efficiency empower new user experiences and connect new industries.

Here’s the history of wireless data and how each generation has worked:

First generation – 1G

1980s: 1G delivered analog voice.

Second generation – 2G

Early 1990s: 2G introduced digital voice (e.g. CDMA- Code Division Multiple Access).

Third generation – 3G

Early 2000s: 3G brought mobile data (e.g. CDMA2000).

Fourth generation – 4G LTE

2010s: 4G LTE ushered in the era of mobile broadband.

5G is the perfect companion for people who want to stream or download on the go. 5G is designed to deliver peak data rates up to 20 Gbps based on IMT-2020 requirements. Qualcomm Technologies’ flagship 5G solution, the Qualcomm® Snapdragon™ X65 is designed to achieve up to 10 Gbps in downlink peak data rates.

What is the downside to 5G? Not all smartphones have the ability to run 5G so you may need a new phone to support the network. Similarly, your mobile phone plan might not include 5G, make sure you check that 5G is enabled on your plan so you know whether or not you can expect the next generation of wireless data to work for you. 

If you are looking for an iPhone that will support 5G, all of Apple’s ‌iPhone 12‌ and ‌iPhone 13‌ models are 5G ready so you can start enjoying this new piece of tech. You can get a great deal on a refurbished iPhone when you shop with The iOutlet.


Browse all our refurbished products

The iOutlet is an award-winning online and wholesale-retail company focusing on refurbished phones, tablets, game consoles, and other tech. The iOutlet is the place to go for certified pre-owned devices where quality and performance are guaranteed. Every device is rigorously tested and nothing is shipped out to you short of perfect working order.

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NEXT DAY DELIVERY*
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£150M+ SOLD
That's a lot of gadgets
Interest Free Options
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Loved by customers
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot