“5G, a new global wireless standard of fifth-generation mobile communications, promises high speeds, smaller latency, more reliable connections and increased capacity allowing many devices and applications to be connected,” say experts from UCtel. In simple words: The modern 5G provides a new model for wireless communication, enhancing the Internet as faster, better and smarter. Next-level networks are implemented and based on various radio waves, such as extremely short ones that have the capacity to send or redirect huge amounts of data per time unit. Likewise, 5G networks also employ several subterfuges to enhance call quality. For instance, they are able to adjust their antennas to point the sign at a place where it is needed more. Or they can segment their network so that each user or application obtains its part.
Experts in this field also note: “However, the high interest in this new technology is indeed accompanied by false and very harmful information about 5th gen, such as espionage, control over people or the spread of coronavirus from unverified sources.” In this article, we’re going to uncover the top surrounding 5G myths and what it really is.
● First Myth: 5G causes cancer or other health problems
5G affects the body’s cell and biological functions and can lead to cancer, DNA damage, infertility, autism, Alzheimer’s, COVID-19 and other diseases — this is a common myth that keeps going around on social media. However, this does not have any scientific evidence. The RF radiation of this type is already being adopted into use by other wireless systems including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and the 4th Generation (4G). RF radiation is a non-ionizing radiation, which means it does not generate sufficient energy to impact the molecular structure of cells. Worldwide, the only factual information about non-ionizing radiation’s effect on human beings is heating; it is the impetus behind ICNIRP and FCC establishing exposure standards to ensure that the temperature increase created by wireless gadgets does not stray beyond a secure range. Countless research and reviews of reputed organisations worldwide, such as the World Health Organisation (WHO) and ICNIRP, refute the myths.
● Second Myth: There is no way 5G can work at the airport
One of the 5G frequencies used in the US is between 3.7 GHz and 3.98 GHz. This band is meant for aircraft altimeters. However, there isn’t enough space on this band for both aircraft altimeters and monitoring air tragedies. This could cause problems with some altimeters. This does not translate into the reality that you should necessarily get rid of all your next-generation devices. Sean Carpenter, director of the 5G & Space program at Ansys notes that there will be certain frequencies identified as not posing problems and may remain operational after installation by their local provider from which they can.
The case in the UK is quite different. Apart from this, 5G networks use other frequency bands which include the 3.4 GHz band, the 3.6 – 4 GHz band and the 700 MHZ band among others. These bands are far away from the altimeter band and not interference-threatening. Ofcom, the UK regulator, also has confirmed that there is no effect of 5th gen on the safety of aviation in the UK. As such, this myth is not appropriate nor factual in the UK setting. In summary, yes, you can have devices powered by the 5G mobile communications available to use at UK airports. Next-level wireless in the UK uses different frequency bands than aviation altimeters. Additionally, Vodafone has implemented 5th-generation coverage across five primary airports in the UK. Hence, 5G devices allow you to experience high-speed and dependable mobile data at UK airports.
● Third Myth: Next-level wireless replaces Wi-Fi
In contrast to what would seem like, 5G and Wi-Fi are not rivalling one another, but rather are completing each other. Next-level wireless is a mobile network that operates through radio waves to link base stations and user devices. This is the local area network that uses radio frequency to pass data between access points and user terminal devices. 5th gen wireless and Wi-Fi possess both pros and cons. For instance, 5G might offer wider reach and faster speed compared to Wi-Fi, but is definitely expensive and less reliable. Greater capacity and reliability are achieved in Wi-Fi, but it is often restricted by range and compatibility. Thus, both types of exchange will be used simultaneously and complemented to satisfy various requirements of users.
● Fourth Myth: A “5G E” signal on my phone means I can access 5G networks. Yippee!
In the UK, no telecoms company uses the name “5G Evolution” for their “5G E” phones. Relevant for the USA: If your phone’s “5G E” signal means “5G Evolution” — a marketing makeover name by AT&T for their anatomy of the 4G LTE. This is not true 5G, but more like a preface to it. In addition to possessing a 5G-compatible device, the network service provider must also provide services in your area where you can enjoy true 5G.
● Fifth Myth: 5G mobile network control the weather & cause disasters
An exotic myth claims that 5G can control the weather or cause disasters. This false idea suggests that 5G signals interfere with Earth’s ecosystems. However, next-generation connectivity uses safe radio waves that don’t affect weather patterns. Other technologies like Wi-Fi also use these waves. Studies show they don’t harm the environment. No evidence supports the myth of 5G causing floods or the end of the world. The myth is based on speculation, not science.
For balance, true facts are given below as answers to frequently asked questions.
Next-level Wireless Facts
| Facts | Truth |
| Uses higher frequencies | 5G uses mmWave frequencies for high data rates, but they have shorter range and are easily blocked |
| Needs more base stations and antennas | 5th gen needs more infrastructure to cover and overcome signal attenuation and interference |
| Enables new applications and services | 5G supports VR and AR, cloud gaming, smart cities, connected vehicles, IoT and M2M communication |
| Has challenges and risks | Cutting-edge wireless faces security and privacy, environmental and health, and socio-economic and ethical issues |
Epilogue
Although the nature of all 5th-gen myths is different, there is still one thing in common between them — this is the concept of a government/secret society/corporate conspiracy. Some suggest that 5G could be a propaganda piece by government companies or other organisations designed to control or harm people. The facts contradict these theories, providing no evidence or logic. For instance, COVID-19 has been reported in most countries and regions that lack the 5G network coverage or do not have its services; some states and parts of the world that switched on the 5th gen technology however seem to have overcome controlling capacity. In addition to this, 5G is not hidden or a strange technology that can be used maliciously. It is an open ProcessMetric, having been defined by hundreds of companies and organisations worldwide through a comprehensive consensus procedure. Healthline divides more true realities from popular myths.
Therefore, 5G is a secure and clear-cut technology that would be advantageous towards the lives of billions of people and devices around the world. The number of B2B and private requests to UCtel proves this. Nevertheless, it is also essential to be aware of the mythologies and misinformation about next-generation connectivity, including in learning various reliable sources of information. In this way, we can not fall victim to fear or confusion but intelligently decide on 5G.
