There is no disputing the fact that the new iPhone 12 launch stimulated US mobile broadband to make a 5G network available in 2020 worldwide. Those components are working together, and if one of them will collapse the whole ecosystem goes down automatically. One of the most significant aspects of the iPhone 12 is the 5G network modem. Therefore, most iPhone users expect from Apple by providing them with a high performance of the Internet. It seems quite simple to move from 4G to 5G, but in reality, each network provider faced with a huge amount of difficulties. Considerable work has been done and is continuing to be done.
Companies like AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon had divergent ways of building out 5G networks. They were faced with several issues. First, the amount of bandwidth data, it’s needed upgraded software configuration. The factor in performance results is the type of frequencies that each of the network providers is using. Verizon stopped on the mmWave spectrum, but it provides limited coverage. On another hand T-Mobile and AT&T focused more on a technology calls sub-6. The spectrum provides the speed and consistency of mobile broadband much more quickly than with a mmWave deployment.
Second, the complexity of performance, which network architects were working on together by learning as they go. It takes time to upgrade and install new antennas. A simple network software upgrade makes a smooth transition from 4G to 5G by Ericsson and Qualcomm technologies. For example, modern Qualcomm X55 will be a part of the iPhone 12 provider 5G.
Third, the speed capabilities are the number of “lanes”. It makes sense because nowadays users of 4G may move to 5G. However, there is a point, there are some technologies Non-Standalone (NSA) and Standalone (SA) access which are two 5G modes. NSA network relies on 4G facilities by providing more speed and higher data bandwidth. Moreover, 5G-capable smartphones will connect either to 5G or 4G networks depending on conditions. SA is dependent on 5G mode, will give tremendous performance speed, and minimize the delay.
Sum up the foregoing, as we can see each mobile provider has its own strategy and idea of how to build the new ecosystem. It is business so everyone wants to win this game. However, not everything may work. Right now, by looking at official performance tests we may realize whose idea performed better. So only engineering ability and recourses can help with winning. A start has been made, the most interesting part ahead of us.
Sources:
https://www.androidcentral.com/why-sub-6-better-mmwave-immediate-5g-future