From CNET: T-Mobile wants to take the lead in 5G -- even if it's not the kind of 5G that you're expecting to get.
The nation's third-largest carrier on Tuesday unveiled plans to build out its next-generation wireless network using the radio airwaves it purchased in the recent government auction. The focus for its 5G network isn't necessarily speed, but instead broader coverage across the country.
It's a surprising move given those airwaves operate on a lower band, which is great for covering long distances but won't give you tremendous speeds. The move goes against the conventional thinking around 5G, which has garnered excitement through its ability to give you a super-sonic connection to the network. Instead, T-Mobile is stressing a better signal everywhere and the ability to manage multiple devices beyond the phone.
"There's a certain irony in T-Mobile taking an approach which could see it lead in coverage but lag in speed over time, given that it has until now been known for the opposite: a fast but far from ubiquitous network," said Jan Dawson, an analyst at Jackdaw Research.
The plan would vault T-Mobile into the pole position in the deployment of 5G, with the company claiming the first nationwide 5G network. With most people signed up for a wireless plan, the carriers are racing to 5G in a bid to get you excited about their services again. In addition, 5G runs on more efficient technology that better allows it to manage your ever-increasing need for video streaming services, mobile gaming and Instagram posts.
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