As a new technology only seeing the beginning of a rollout in 2019, there is still some major confusion about what 5G is and what it could mean. Most notably in terms of entertainment, there are elements of this new technology which are undeniably beneficial, but it could be years before the Isle of Wight sees these advantages.
From online casino games to high-definition video streaming, we want to take a quick look at what 5G is, where it will make a difference, where it won’t, and why it could be a few years off yet.
What Does 5G Entail?
The general concept behind 5G involves noted improvements to the speed of devices connected to the 5G network. This means more data being sent at once (higher bandwidth), with faster response times (lower latency). 5G also comes with the advantage of allowing far more simultaneous connections than 4G, at a million compared to 100k, meaning far less network congestion.
Will 5G Matter for You?
As with any other generation leap in mobile technology, this depends on what you use your mobile for. For example, users who only turn to their mobiles for texts have probably seen few improvements since 3G’s introduction back in 2003, or perhaps even since 2G a decade earlier.
The deciding factors in this generational leap boil down to internet usage. The most common forms of engagement this currently takes are with gaming and video streaming.
When it comes to gaming, many of us turn to slot games for mobile entertainment over the web. In this case, online slot machines are already small and efficient programs, with each of the dozens available loading and running quickly on 4G connections. It doesn’t matter which game is chosen, or which theme or sound effects are run, these slots in no way necessitate a fast connection.
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This could matter, however, if users are looking to get into newer game streaming developments such as Google’s Stadia or Microsoft’s Project xCloud. In these instances, 4G connections will prove largely inadequate. This is because these newer systems are demanding on a level we have really seen before, even running poorly on many home-networks.
Similar comparisons to casino games and gaming, in general, could be made with video streaming. In standard cases, such as watching YouTube or standard definition Netflix, 4G connections often run just fine. However, in the future, 4K video streaming is looking to become far more common. 4K is impossible to run in real-time over a 4G connection, so in this way, streaming would not be possible.
At least in the case of 4K video streaming, the adaption of the standard is far less likely. Gaming, whether with slots or Red Dead Redemption 2, look amazing on standard mobiles, and even better on folding phones. Very few phones, at least so far, offer 4K displays, however, and even if they did, the cramped space is far from an ideal fit.
When Might Wight see 5G?
A difficult question, as 5G rollout is still in its infancy. If we do see 5G on the Isle of Wight in 2020, it will likely be confined to the areas of highest population. 5G towers are expensive, at this point and time, and their limited range compared to 4G means their placement has to be strategic.
At any rate, it could be a while before the entirety of the Isle of Wight gets full 5G coverage, if it ever does at all. Potential customers can rest assured, however, as for most applications 4G will still have you covered.
