All You Need to Know About the 5G Rollout
5G (fifth generation) high-speed cell data is now a reality, and Americans across the nation are excited about the upgrade from 4G (fourth generation). More people are being introduced to the benefits of the latest mobile technology, such as reduced latency, faster connections, and an altogether improved user experience. However, amid the excitement of the 5G rollout is another sentiment: anxiety.
Not everyone is ready for the shift to 5G technology, and as it rolls out, many are left wondering if the change will make their 3G (third-generation) and 4G (fourth-generation) phones obsolete. We’ll explain the impact 5G will have on both of the older technologies.
What is 5G Technology?
In a nutshell, 5G is the fifth and latest generation in mobile technology, and it’s sure to bring exciting changes. We all saw the innovations introduced by previous generations. The second-generation (2G) brought the world SMS and MMS, while 3G significantly improved speed and encryption technology. When 4G rolled out, it was ten times faster than its predecessor.
Fifth-generation development is still in its early stages as of writing this post, but the future of 5G looks very promising. What we do know for certain is our phones will get a lot faster. 5G is said to be 100 times faster than 4G. However, this unprecedented speed is currently dependent on some key factors:
- The type of phone you use
- Where you are located (this can impact your connection)
If your carrier has a strong 5G presence in your region, you are certain to expect faster speeds than with 4G LTE and 3G. When you sign up for a government program with Q Link Wireless, you can bring your phone and experience more coverage and faster speeds with our 4G LTE/5G network.
5G vs 4G: Will 4G be Replaced?
This is a good question. After all, when 4G was launched, its ability to support new technologies significantly overtook 3G’s capabilities and ousted 2G. However, as of writing this article, 5G still relies on the features 4G has to offer. As a result, these technologies will work in tandem to speed up the 5G deployment. In other words, no, the 5G rollout will not replace 4G technology – yet.
You will not need to replace your 4G phone and, in fact, you may benefit from faster speeds as more 5G networks roll out. However, when it comes to 3G, if your 3G phone does not have 4G capabilities, you will need an upgrade.
Why is that upgrade so necessary?
Reluctance to Upgrade Despite 5G Rollout
We know the 5G rollout will not replace 4G, however, 3G phones have completely been phased out this year (2022). If you still rely on 3G, you may still access some features of your phone, but you will no longer receive data or voice services. Nevertheless, millions of Americans rely on 3G technology, which is seen largely within the older population. There is reluctance among the older population to transition to a modern, seemingly more complicated technology, according to several tech blogs, including WINK News, a CBS affiliate.
Additionally, individuals and families in low-income households have reservations as cellular carriers  will shut down their 3G networks. The cost of smartphones continuously increases, leaving many to wonder if they can even afford an upgrade.
Nevertheless, carriers are eager to do away with 3G, as this will make newer technology more efficient. According to the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), carriers are eager to do away with older tech services to “free up spectrum and infrastructure to support new services.” In this case, 5G network technology. For those who have yet to make the switch, this can pose a significant problem. Not only will users lose access to talk and text, but according to the FCC, they will most likely lose the ability to make 911 phone calls .
Time to Replace Your Outdated Device
Find out if You Can Upgrade with Q Link Wireless
If you have an old smartphone that still operates on 3G technology, the 5G rollout will impact your older technology. As a result, consider replacing your old phone with a new model. An upgrade doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll break the bank. Q Link Wireless offers affordable smartphones as low as $34.95 which you can use with your FREE service. Low-income individuals and households can receive 4G LTE/5G coverage for as long as they qualify. Alternatively, if you have a cellphone that is 4G LTE/5G compatible, you can bring your own phone and number and enjoy Q Link’s service.
You can qualify for our FREE monthly UNLIMITED cell phone services if you are enrolled in any of the following government assistance programs:
- Food Stamps / Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension
- Federal Public Housing Assistance or Section 8
If you do not receive federal assistance, individuals with a household income that is at or below the federal poverty level are also eligible to obtain our services, via two federal government benefit programs: Lifeline Program and/or Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). It’s important to note that eligibility is dependent on the specifications of each state.
Once you know you are eligible within your state, you can shop from one of our affordable smartphones if your phone no longer connects to a 4G LTE/5G network.
Ready to enroll in one of these government programs with Q Link Wireless?
Sign up only takes 5 minutes!
Find out if you qualify and sign up today for FREE Data, Talk, and Text on one of America’s largest 4G LTE/5G networks. Don’t pay for your monthly service when you can get it for FREE. Let us help you get started. Call 1-855-754-6543 today to speak to a Q Link Wireless representative.
