At 5G Immersive Lab, we host a variety of events for SMEs and the general public, exploring the transformative potential of 5G. To ensure everyone has a solid understanding, we’ve compiled 17 key facts covering everything from 5G technology innovations to real-world industry applications.

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The Technology Behind the Network‍

1. 5G was first launched at the end of 2018.

2. 5G is the ‘fifth generation’ and latest iteration of mobile network technology.

Read more in our 5G for Dummies blog.

3. Not all 5G is the same.

There are two common types of public 5G that you can access. Non-Standalone (NSA) which is using existing 4G infrastructure combined with new 5G radio technology. The second is 5G Standalone which is an entirely new dedicated 5G network, standing completely separate from its 4G services.

4. 5G Standalone is more powerful.

5G Standalone is stronger as it delivers ultra-low latency (high volume of data with a low tolerance for delay), higher capacity, and advanced features like network slicing, making it ideal for real-time monitoring, automation, and AI-powered applications.

5. 5G enables Network Slicing to prevent congestion and interference.

5G Network Slicing lets operators create multiple virtual networks on the same infrastructure. Each slice is tailored for specific needs – like low-latency slices for remote surgery and autonomous vehicles, massive IoT slices for smart cities, and high-speed slices for 4K streaming and other consumer applications.‍

6. The UK’s first 5G Open RAN site was launched in 2022.

Open Radio Access Network (Open RAN) allows operators to mix and match hardware and software from different vendors, reducing reliance on single suppliers. In January 2022, Vodafone activated the UK’s first 5G Open RAN site in Bath, kicking off the rollout with 2,500 sites planned by 2027.

7. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing a growing role in 5G networks.

IT and Telecommunications accounts for 29.5% of deployed AI solutions. As networks become more software-based and virtualised, AI helps optimise performance, reduce costs, and improve security. AI-powered 5G means optimised traffic flow as well as automated troubleshooting, which paves the way for an AI-native 6G future.

‍8. Four major mobile network operators offer 5G in the UK.

The rollout of 5G in the UK is primarily driven by the four major Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) – EE, Three, Vodafone, and O2. There are also Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNOs), such as Tesco Mobile and Giffgaff.
Beyond traditional operators, tower companies also play a key role in expanding 5G coverage. These companies, like Nokia, build masts and lease access to MNOs without directly offering mobile services.

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Numbers Behind the Technology‍

9. Everybody can track 5G Coverage across the UK.

55% of the UK landmass has 5G coverage from at least one mobile network operator, and this is expected to grow rapidly.
The UK 5G Coverage Tracker monitors coverage across 120 major towns and cities. When a mobile operator states that 5G coverage is available in a city, it can mean that it’s limited to the most trafficked areas.

10. 5G is set to boost the UK economy by billions.

By 2035, the widespread rollout of 5G could contribute between £9.3 billion and £37 billion in additional economic output (Cambridge Econometrics & Analysys Mason). PwC forecasts that by 2030, the UK economy could see an even greater uplift of £43 billion across multiple sectors:

• Healthcare – £15bn
• Consumer & Media – £9.4bn
• Smart Utilities – £9.4bn
• Manufacturing – £6.1bn
• Financial Services – £3.1bn

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Industry & Real-World Applications

11. 5G takes drones to new heights.

5G drones instantly transmit high-resolution video, sensor data, and telemetry to a central system without the need to land and offload data manually.

Agricultural drones with 5G connectivity can inspect crops, relay real-time data to farmers, and guide automated machinery for precise fertilisation – reducing waste and improving efficiency. Locally, North East-based company Drone Ag Limited is bringing IoT-powered automation to farmers through 5G connectivity.

12. 5G transforming construction industry by enabling real-time automation, connectivity, and efficiency.

• 5G is supporting autonomous train tracks and cranes along England’s East Coast, improving precision.
• Many construction sites are deploying private 5G networks as wireless backhaul for contractors’ cabins, overcoming the challenge of delivering fibre in temporary locations.
• With low-latency connectivity, construction firms can enable real-time monitoring of machinery.

13. 5G ensures a percentage of the network to be dynamically allocated for a specific period at large events.

• 5G powers live streaming, e-ticketing, and social sharing at major events like Glastonbury and Wimbledon. 
• At Liverpool’s Salt and Tar Weekender, Open RAN 5G supported e-ticketing and sales systems. 
• Pitlochry Highland Games used a pop-up 5G network to stream 4 HD cameras with reliable uplink.

14. 5G provides entertainment with additional layers of content.

• EE’s 5G case study shows artists like Bastille using 5G and XR to enhance live performances. 
• Vodafone and Düsseldorf Opera used AR glasses for real-time plot details, actor bios, and orchestra views.

15. 5G is transforming media production by removing the need for extensive cabling and allowing remote production. 

A prime example is Advanced Media Production in Gateshead, where 5G is powering immersive projects like Gibson/Martelli, the initiative, which connected Gateshead and London using high-speed video transmission, motion capture, and virtual environments to create real-time, dual-location performances.‍

16. 5G-powered wearable devices are making sports and entertainment more inclusive.

• Gallaudet University’s 5G-connected football helmet is helping deaf and hard-of-hearing players communicate more effectively.
• At Wimbledon 2023, GiveVision’s 5G-powered headsets improved live TV footage for visually impaired fans, adapting video to their specific sight profiles.

17. 5G and XR Enhance navigation for the visually impaired.

5G’s low-latency, high-precision connectivity enables real-time spatial awareness, improving navigation for blind and visually impaired individuals. Solutions like HyperAR use 5G-powered AR for seamless guidance in urban environments.

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Final Thoughts

From technological innovations to industry-changing applications, 5G is shaping the future of connectivity. These facts provide a snapshot of its impact, with links for deeper insights into how businesses and individuals can leverage 5G to drive innovation and efficiency.

If you would like to learn more about 5G technology, check out our other blog content pieces or pop into the 5G Immersive Lab in Eldon Square, Newcastle to speak to one of our Innovation Specialists.