Why isn’t it rolled out sooner?

If 5G offers faster speeds than 4G, why are big companies like Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile taking so long to support 5G service in U.S. cities? Learn about the challenges of 5G deployment around the world, including approvals and network construction costs.

Challenges of 5G network deployment

The type of signal that some 5G cell towers transmit severely limits their reach to nearby devices. Many networks operate on 5G radio frequencies called millimeter waves, which can carry large amounts of data. As such, they support faster connections and smoother streaming, but coverage is often limited to less than 1 square mile.

Because of this limited range, fewer users can access the network from a single base station. 5G signals are easily blocked by common objects such as trees and buildings. This means that many small antennas must be installed to serve more customers. Deploying such infrastructure across the country is no easy task, and providers may encounter local community regulatory issues.

Some cities don’t support 5G

Local government regulations may be one of the biggest barriers to rapid 5G deployment. While some cities are working with telecom providers to install his 5G equipment, others have policies and procedures in place that are proving to be a stumbling block. Examples include zoning policies, lengthy permitting processes, high fees, and even aesthetic concerns with his 5G hardware being installed on streetlights and utility poles.

testing is important

As with all development technologies, rigorous testing is required It must be completed before the actual 5G deployment takes place. Companies don’t release a new product or service until they’re sure it works as advertised and provides the best experience for customers. Most major mobile phone operators around the world have been testing 5G indoors and outdoors for some time now. Some companies are testing 5G in moving vehicles, while others are testing 5G via fixed wireless access points.

Need to buy radio spectrum

The portion of the radio spectrum on which 5G networks operate is not simply available for free. Network operators must obtain a license from a regulatory authority such as the FCC in the United States. However, before providers pay for a portion of the spectrum, international authorities must agree on which part of the spectrum can be used for mobile communications. This is no longer as much of an issue as it was earlier in the rollout phase, but in some cases these steps can take years to complete.

5G mobile phones are not yet mainstream

Some less popular carriers have yet to release a wide range of 5G phones, and many consumers still feel they don’t need to buy one because it’s not available where they live or travel. I don’t feel it. Some are also concerned about the safety of 5G radio waves because it is a new type of network that operates on different radio frequencies than older networks such as 4G and 3G.

5G deployment is expensive

Deploying a new mobile network isn’t cheap. Telecommunications companies are expected to invest up to $275 billion in 5G infrastructure by 2025. During 5G deployment, mobile network operators must pay for all of the following (and more) before they can provide services to their customers:

• spectrum license
• Physical hardware used for deployment
• Hire a technician to install the necessary hardware
• Test and retest your network
• Introductory fees required by regulators