With the recent iOS 12.2 upgrade, AT&T has introduced a new “5GE” icon on iPhones, but don’t be fooled by the fancy name – it doesn’t actually mean you now have access to 5G connectivity. Instead, 5GE stands for 5G “Evolution,” which is an enhanced 4G LTE network. This means you can experience faster speeds on compatible devices, but it’s not comparable to the actual performance of 5G networks. While AT&T has plans to expand their 5GE network and roll out real 5G networks in select cities, it’s important to note that no iPhones currently support 5G connectivity. So, for now, you’ll have to wait until 2020 when 5G-compatible iPhones are expected to be released.
AT&T introduces 5GE icon on iPhones with iOS 12.2 upgrade
Background on AT&T’s 5GE icon
AT&T has recently introduced a new icon, labeled as 5GE, on iPhones after upgrading to iOS 12.2. This move has created quite a buzz and raised questions among iPhone users about what exactly this new icon represents. To fully understand the implications of the 5GE icon and its significance, it is important to delve into the technology behind it and compare it to actual 5G connectivity.
Explanation of 5GE technology
The 5GE icon that now appears on iPhones stands for 5G ‘Evolution.’ Contrary to what some may think, it is not an indicator of true 5G connectivity, but rather an enhanced version of the current 4G LTE network. AT&T has been utilizing existing LTE technologies to provide faster speeds on compatible devices since 2017, and the 5GE icon is a promotional tool to showcase this enhancement.
Comparison between 5GE and actual 5G connectivity
It is essential to differentiate between 5GE and real 5G networks to avoid any confusion. While 5GE utilizes enhanced LTE technologies, actual 5G networks offer vastly superior speeds and performance. The true 5G networks provide lightning-fast download and upload speeds, much lower latency, and enhanced network capacity, which translates into a smoother and faster user experience.
On the other hand, 5GE on AT&T’s network provides speeds comparable to LTE on other carriers. Although it may seem faster than the previous 4G experience, it falls short when compared to the blistering speeds that true 5G networks deliver.
Current limitations of iPhones regarding 5G
Currently, there are no iPhone models available that support 5G connectivity. This means that until Apple releases 5G-compatible iPhone models, iPhone users will be limited to LTE speeds when using their devices. Upgrading to iOS 12.2 and seeing the 5GE icon is not an indication of accessing true 5G speeds but rather a marker for enhanced LTE speeds.
AT&T’s plans for expanding 5GE network
AT&T has ambitious plans to expand its 5GE network to more markets and customers. With the increasing demand for faster network speeds, AT&T aims to cater to a larger customer base and provide an enhanced user experience. Through ongoing efforts to enhance network speeds and coverage, AT&T strives to ensure that 5GE is accessible to more users across different regions.
Criticism and legal challenges faced by AT&T
The branding of 5GE by AT&T has come under scrutiny and criticism from T-Mobile and Sprint, who argue that it misleads customers into believing they have access to actual 5G connectivity. This has resulted in legal challenges for AT&T, with accusations of false advertising and misleading labeling. The concerns surrounding potential customer confusion regarding 5G have caused further controversy in the industry.
AT&T’s plans for real 5G networks
Despite the backlash and legal challenges, AT&T remains committed to rolling out true 5G networks. In the first half of 2019, select cities can expect to have 5G coverage from AT&T. To differentiate between 5GE and true 5G networks, AT&T will introduce a new “5G+” icon, which will symbolize the availability of actual 5G connectivity. This move aims to provide customers with transparency and clarity regarding their network speeds.
Expected release of 5G-compatible iPhones by Apple
As the demand for 5G technology continues to grow, Apple is expected to release 5G-compatible iPhones in 2020. This anticipation further fuels the excitement surrounding the future of 5G connectivity. Apple, a frontrunner in innovation, is undoubtedly aware of the market trends and the desire for faster network speeds. The release of 5G-compatible iPhones will undoubtedly make a significant impact on the consumer market and further drive the adoption of 5G technology.
In conclusion, the introduction of the 5GE icon on iPhones with the iOS 12.2 upgrade has sparked interest among iPhone users. However, it is crucial to understand that while 5GE represents an enhanced version of the current 4G LTE network, it is not equivalent to true 5G connectivity. AT&T plans to expand its 5GE network and roll out actual 5G networks in the coming months. Until then, iPhone users will have to wait for the release of 5G-compatible iPhone models to experience the full potential of 5G technology.
