New App Reveals Misleading 5G Connections in UK Tests
A new app called SignalTracker has revealed that many mobile devices in the UK are falsely displaying a 5G connection when in fact, they are only connected to 4G. The research, conducted by PolicyTracker, shows that 38% of tests conducted in the UK while displaying the 5G icon were actually connected to 4G.
The app works by displaying actual 5G connections in red and 4G connections with the 5G icon in blue, as shown on the map of Central London. This data was collected from all major UK mobile networks.
According to the results, actual 5G connections were found to be twice as fast as those with only the 5G icon, with an average speed of 49 Mbps compared to 27 Mbps. The app also provides users with information on signal strength, bands used, and download speed, allowing them to compare the performance of different networks in various locations.
However, the research also showed that some mobile operators have a higher rate of displaying the 5G icon when there is only a 4G connection. Three and Vodafone had a 94% and 93% rate of genuine 5G connections respectively, while O2 and EE had rates of 66% and 32%.
PolicyTracker’s Managing Director, Martin Sims, emphasized the importance of clear communication with consumers about their mobile connections. “Achieving a 5G connection everywhere may not be possible and most people will accept this. But the public deserve clear information about what they are getting,” he said.
Sims also praised the mobile networks for their engineering achievements and stated that keeping consumers informed is the best way to gain public support for optimizing this technology.
The SignalTracker app, available on Google Play, aims to provide consumers with accurate information about their mobile connections and enable them to make informed decisions about their network provider. It also offers detailed spectrum usage data for commercial and regulatory organizations.
It should be noted that while most UK 5G connections are currently 5G Non Standalone (5G NSA), which uses the existing 4G network, the next stage of 5G technology, 5G Standalone (5G SA), does not use the 4G network but is currently limited in its deployment.
PolicyTracker, the company behind SignalTracker, specializes in providing news, research, and training about spectrum policy. For more information, visit their website or contact Managing Director, Martin Sims.
Derick is an experienced reporter having held multiple senior roles for large publishers across Europe. Specialist subjects include small business and financial emerging markets.