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The world’s first 5G mobile networks are still more patchy than powerful
- Independent tests using 5G smartphones and speed-measuring apps showed that gaps in coverage can leave most early adopters waiting for networks to reach full speed
- Where it is available, even without hitting its maximum theoretical speeds, 5G is an impressive upgrade for most consumer applications
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The hype for the next-generation of mobile technology has been in full force since Qualcomm declared “5G is here, and it’s time to celebrate” in February of last year.
The reality, however, has required patience from consumers because of the time needed to roll out the new networks and the dearth of applications to put additional speed to compelling use.
A year after South Korea launched the world’s first full commercial 5G mobile network and months after China opened the world’s biggest, Bloomberg News reporters tested the leading carriers in both countries to see how far 5G coverage has progressed.
Tests in Hong Kong and Tokyo showed similar results – gaps in coverage that could leave most early adopters waiting for networks to reach full speed.
Smartphone makers have swept in with a flood of 5G devices this year, with Samsung Electronics, Huawei Technologies and Xiaomi Corp all pushing the new technology without asking for much higher prices or design compromises. Millions of 5G smartphones have already been sold, and for the billions of people not yet on the bandwagon, the new wireless standard will soon be the default option anyway.
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