While 5G is a significant advancement in mobile network technology, it may not be the ultimate solution to all mobile signal-related problems. While 5G promises faster speeds and lower latency, its coverage is not as extensive as older technologies like 4G or 3G. So, what are the main issues affecting 5G?

Signal penetration

Due to the higher frequency bands used in 5G, signals don’t travel as far and struggle to penetrate obstacles like buildings, including walls, ceilings and windows. As a result, in certain areas, especially rural or remote regions, there might still be weak or no 5G coverage.

Surely Green/Smart Buildings are being built with 5G in mind?

The 5th generation mobile network is the new global wireless standard after 1G, 2G, 3G, and 4G networks. 5G enables a new kind of network designed to connect virtually everyone, including machines, objects, and devices. So, why doesn’t 5G solve the problem of poor connectivity within buildings, being a more advanced technology? 

Unfortunately, 5G has become the construction industry’s burden, as although it provides low latency/high-speed service, enabling super-fast data transmission, it cannot penetrate these building materials. As 70% of mobile devices are used inside a building, this creates a severe issue for the building industry and its tenants.

Network rollout

Deploying a nationwide 5G network is a complex and expensive process. While many cities and urban areas may have 5G coverage, it might take years before it reaches all parts of a country or even the world. During this transition period, users in some locations might not see immediate benefits.

Device compatibility 

To experience the benefits of 5G, you need a 5G-enabled device. As the technology is still relatively new, not all smartphones or other mobile devices are 5G-compatible. Users with older devices might not see any improvement in their mobile signal until they upgrade to a compatible device.

Interference and congestion

As 5G becomes more widespread, the increased number of connected devices could lead to network congestion. In densely populated areas with a high concentration of users, network speeds might suffer due to the sheer volume of connected devices.

Backward compatibility 

Mobile networks are designed to support backward compatibility so that older devices can still connect to the network. In the case of hardware, backward compatibility means that a newer device or component can work with older devices or systems, typically by using older interfaces or protocols. This ensures that new hardware can be integrated into existing setups without requiring a complete overhaul of the entire system.

As 5G networks are built alongside existing 4G and 3G infrastructure, there may be limitations in how much the new technology can improve the overall signal experience.

Signal interference 

The higher frequency bands used in 5G are more susceptible to interference from environmental factors like weather conditions and physical obstructions. This interference can affect signal strength and stability.

So, while 5G brings many advancements and benefits to mobile communications, it’s not a magic solution that can immediately fix all mobile signal issues. It will take time for 5G networks to mature, expand their coverage, and for 5G-enabled devices to become more prevalent. During this transitional period, users might still face mobile signal challenges in some situations.