What is 5G?
Learn more about 5G, the next generation of cellular technology and wireless network, and get answers to common questions.
What is 5G?
5G stands for 5th generation. That’s because it’s the 5th generation of cellular technology. In other words, this is the next big step in the way that people, devices, and businesses can stay connected.
How is 5G better than 4G and LTE?
5G has the potential to deliver faster data, offer lower latency, help save energy, and potentially enable exciting improvements in applications like virtual reality and autonomous cars. And just like LTE gave rise to new applications previously unheard of, like app stores, video calling, ridesharing, and other innovations, 5G has the potential to unleash a whole new wave of uses that haven’t been thought of yet.
What is latency?
Latency is the term used to describe the amount of time it takes for a connected device to transmit a message and get back a response. A shorter latency means a faster response from one connected device to another. Low latency is especially important for things like online gaming, where epic wins need quick reaction times.
Will 5G work on any phone?
While you can still get phone service on a phone that’s not 5G-capable, you won’t be able to enjoy the extra benefits of 5G service unless you also have a 5G phone. Of course, you’ll also need to have a plan that provides access to 5G service and be in a location where 5G coverage is available. Not every smartphone, tablet, or other device will be 5G capable, though more and more 5G compatible devices are being launched from many popular device manufacturers.
Will a 5G phone work on any plan?
While 5G phones will function using 4G LTE on a plan that doesn’t provide 5G access, you won’t be able to enjoy 5G quality service. For example, if your plan only offers 4G service and you have a 5G phone, your phone will only get a 4G level of service. That’s why it’s so important to also have a wireless plan with 5G access. You should also keep in mind that even if you have both a 5G phone and a rate plan with 5G access, you’ll still need to be in an area where 5G is currently available to enjoy the full 5G experience.
What is 5G good for?
Whenever you use your phone, tablet, or other connected device away from your home internet connection, you rely on wireless service for any task that requires data. That means the better your wireless network, the better performance you’ll have for doing everything you love on your connected devices—whether that’s online gaming, streaming videos, or downloading large files. Where 5G is available, it can help you enjoy better speeds with your 5G compatible device and rate plan with 5G access. 5G is used in many exciting areas, such as gaming, sports, research, education, and travel. See a collection of stories on 5G use cases.
Is 5G available now?
Yes, 5G is already available in many places. Check out our coverage map to see where AT&T 5G service is available.
Is 5G the same as 5G Wi-Fi®?
Some people will describe a certain frequency band used for home internet as “5G Wi-Fi”. This term is a shortcut for saying 5 Gigahertz. While this can be confusing, it’s important to understand that these are two separate technologies, and that 5 Gigahertz Wi-Fi is not the same thing as 5G cellular technology.
What is the best AT&T plan with 5G access?
The best phone plan for you that includes 5G access will depend on your personal needs and budget. AT&T unlimited plans have 5G access included, plus additional benefits:
- AT&T ActiveArmorSM advanced security including Spam and Fraud Call Blocking, Identity Monitoring, Safe Browsing and more.
- Hotspot data per line per month
How can I tell if 5G is available in my area?
Different wireless carriers will offer 5G coverage in different areas, so you may need to check with your respective carrier. Check out our coverage map to see where AT&T 5GSM service is available.
Will 4G devices still work with 5G?
Yes, existing 4G devices will still work as 5G continues to roll out, but they will only receive a 4G level of service.
Are there any AT&T Prepaid plans with 5G access?
Yes. If you’re looking for the convenience and flexibility of a prepaid cell phone plan, AT&T Prepaid unlimited plans offer 5G service in eligible areas.
What does a plan with 5G access cost?
The cost of a wireless plan with 5G access may vary depending on several factors, including your carrier and the number of lines on your account.
If you have four lines on your account, and each line has the AT&T Unlimited Starter® plan, it will cost $35 per line for four lines after paperless billing and AutoPay discount, plus taxes and fees.
AT&T may temporarily slow data speeds if the network is busy.
What is the difference between 5G and 5G+?
We offer three different flavors of 5G service:
- AT&T 5G, which uses low-band spectrum and reaches more than 255 million people in more than 18,000 cities and towns in the U.S.
- Mid-band 5G+, which uses the recently introduced mid-band spectrum and sits between our other two bands. This provides a great combination of ultra-fast speeds and wide geographic coverage.
- High-band 5G+, which uses high-band spectrum and delivers lightning-fast speeds and unprecedented performance in high-traffic areas.
Looking for more?
You can stay up to date with the latest news about this exciting technology, and learn more about the 5G network you depend on to stay securely connected.*
*Req’s compatible plan & device. Coverage not available everywhere. Learn more at att.com/5Gforyou.
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Andrea Dickson is a User Experience Copywriter at AT&T. She's been working in the world of digital tech for decades and enjoys translating technical jargon into words that anyone can understand. She lives in the Pacific Northwest.