The Truth about 5G: 5 Myths Debunked

The 5G evolution offers an exciting range of benefits, but the details are sometimes hazy. Like many technological advancements, the information available isn’t always accurate and can often confuse rather than explain. The potential of 5G seems infinite, which results in many myths surrounding this new wireless technology. It’s time to set the record straight, so here’s five myths about 5G debunked.

1. “5G is all about flying cars and robots, which won’t impact my life right now”

This one is semi true, as the future of 5G could drive fundamental change across industries from robotics in manufacturing to drones in agriculture. In saying this, 5G currently offers exciting benefits that are available in Australian homes right now. For example, the enhanced experience of streaming sports at home on the 5G network. The Optus 5G network is end-to-end video optimised, which means the bandwidth of the network will provide seamless video streaming and viewing. The new high-speed 5G wireless network can handle way more data than 4G, meaning an enhanced 5G viewing experience is ready and waiting.

2. Upgrading to 5G is expensive and inconvenient 

Changing home broadband providers can be a task that falls into the ‘too hard’ basket, particularly when it means waiting to be connected. To make life easier, Optus has launched plug and play 5G Home Broadband. This means if you live within range of a 5G site, you can go into your local store to purchase a 5G Home Broadband plan for $70 per month and gain immediate access to Optus 5G. If going into a store isn’t ideal, don’t worry - you can also sign up to Optus 5G Home online. Head to the chat tool to speak to one of our friendly staff.

3. Australia is lagging in 5G technology

This couldn’t be more untrue, with Australia one of the first countries to move forward with 5G technology. While we are rolling out 5G to selected locations in Australia (excluding NT and TAS), many other countries are still touting it as the “technology of tomorrow”. Digitally savvy Australians are already benefiting from the speedy Optus 5G current average download speed. We’re also starting to showcase the wonders that will be available as 5G evolves, recently giving Australians a glimpse into the future by flying Australia’s first drone on the Optus 5G network.

4. 5G is unsafe

5G is safe - that’s what ARPANSA, the Australian Government’s primary authority on radiation protection and nuclear safety, has stated, including to the Parliamentary Inquiry that is currently underway. ARPANSA establishes the general public radiation exposure levels, so that radio waves used are safe for people of all ages and medical conditions, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. All of our sites and equipment operate at a small fraction of the safe levels set by ARPANSA. The measurements from 5G sites are below the EME measured by a microwave oven and are typically around that of a baby monitor. See what the experts are saying here.

5. Smartphones are the only way to reap the benefits of the 5G network

Home is where Australians can see many benefits right now. Optus is leading the charge by offering quick, easy and inexpensive new possibilities for Australians via its Optus 5G Home, allowing you to experience faster, more reliable internet on your devices. In fact, 5G Home is perfect for families and shared households by allowing more users to stream and download content simultaneously without sacrificing quality.