5G Technology Trials Underway in 22 Cities
Fifth generation wireless communication (5G) is the next step in the evolution of technology for mobile networks, and Verizon has released a series of 22 cities that it intends to conduct testing for its 5G network. 5G technology has a much higher speed and much lower latency than current wireless communication technology. The aim of implementing 5G nationwide is to allow for more seamless access to data across devices, enabling mobile technology to communicate efficiently with each other. The impact of 5G technology is likely to be felt even beyond the speed of mobile data communication, as it enables each device that can connect modern communication facilities for data transfer.
The cities that Verizon pipped for testing the new network are Salt Lake City, San Diego, Providence R.I., Phoenix, Memphis, Little Rock AK., Kansas City, Indianapolis, Houston, Detroit, Denver, Iowa, Des Moines, Ohio, Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Atlanta, Boston, Charlotte, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, and Chicago.
A New Era of Fast Data
The first generation of wireless communication, colloquially referred to as 1G, dealt primarily with delivering coverage to cell phones over the broadest range possible. The second generation allowed for sending of text messages and 3G introduced limited data connection with speeds that would compare to old ADSL connection lines. 4G increased rates significantly and allowed for streaming of data across a network. Some 5G connection speeds have been reported as fast as 1 gigabit per second, with the new technology integrated into the mobile device. 5G intends to expand this communication speed even further and lower latency making for a tighter, more responsive network.
Additionally, 5G boasts increased reliability and lower latency, which can have significant impacts on consumer items. Lower latency makes the possibility of self-driving vehicles a potential reality within the near future. Reported latency on 5G networks is in the realm of 1ms, far better than the current best of 20ms on cellular networks today. However, the lag would be affected by the range the device has from the tower, and products using it for remote high-accuracy triangulation may need further technology to aid it in its navigation.
