Last updated May 2023

The fourth generation of mobile connectivity started to make waves in the late 2000s.

4G made mobile internet speeds up to 500 times faster than 3G and allowed support for HD TV on mobile, high–quality video calls, and fast mobile browsing. The development of 4G was a massive feat for mobile technology, especially for the evolution of smartphones and tablets.

4G is now common worldwide, but things are about to change again. 

The Internet of Things is now a real possibility, and 4G will not be able to manage the huge number of connections on the network. 

There are over 15 billion connected IoT devices worldwide, which is expected to double by 2030.

This is where 5G comes into force.
 

So, what makes 5G so different from 4G?

5G is smarter, faster, and more efficient than 4G.

5G promises mobile data speeds that far outstrip consumers' fastest home broadband network.

With up to 100 gigabits per second, 5G is set to be as much as 100 times faster than 4G.

Low latency is a key differentiator between 4G and 5G.

Latency is when information is sent from a device until the receiver can use it. Reduced latency means you could use your mobile device connection as a replacement for your cable modem and Wi-Fi.
Additionally, you could download and upload files quickly and easily without worrying about the network or phone suddenly crashing. You would also be able to watch a 4K video almost straight away without having to experience any buffering time.  

5G will be able to fix bandwidth issues.

Currently, so many devices are connected to 3G and 4G networks that they do not have the infrastructure to cope effectively.

5G will handle devices and emerging technologies such as driverless cars and connected home products.

However, governments and mobile network operators will invest a lot of investment to make scenarios work.

The security aspect of 5G also still needs to be figured out. With more users and improved services, 5G opens the door to a new level of security challenges. Governments and mobile operators must ensure they have the correct level of security in place before 5G can be rolled out.

For more information on these differences, read our infographic  here.